DETECTIVES are 'hopeful' forensic tests will help solve the suspicious death of Blacon man Stephen Prudhoe.
Mr Prudhoe died of a heart attack at his home in Blacon Point Road, Blacon, - after death someone had removed his genitals with a sharp instrument.
Dozens of items have been taken from the house to undergo forensic examination. So far all traces of DNA have been linked to people who had a legitimate reason for being in the house.
However, Detective Inspector Mark Tasker, while circumspect, says he has reason to believe tests on other items will prove fruitful.
'We are hopeful material still being examined can provide the answer,' he said.
Irrelevant DNA traces in the house have been eliminated thanks to the cooperation of friends and neighbours in volunteering their DNA which involves a simple mouth swab.
The detective continued: 'The amount of stuff an inquiry like this generates is massive. It takes time to go through. We do have breakthroughs, mini breakthroughs, all the time. Stuff comes back from the lab on an almost daily basis.'
DI Tasker is the third senior detective to be involved with the inquiry, partly due to officers changing positions, leading to criticism about how the case is being handled.
He said a detective inspector involved from day one continued to overview the inquiry and there were still 12 staff dedicated to solving the crime.
DI Tasker and his team believe the key to unlocking the puzzle can be found here in Chester.
AN AUSTRALIAN banker who leapt to worldwide prominence after being caught on television looking at erotic pictures of a woman while at work has been allowed to keep his job....
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