Washington, D.C., police arrested a 70-year-old man on Tuesday in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 24-year-old woman in 1999.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of George Mudd, who is charged with first-degree murder while armed (premeditated), in a news release on Wednesday.
The Context
Susan Cvengros was found suffering from stab wounds at a residence in Northeast Washington, D.C., on May 21, 1999. Police said she was pronounced dead after lifesaving efforts failed.
Investigators determined that DNA found on the victim came from a single source and the profile developed from the samples matched Mudd in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) database, according to an affidavit obtained by Newsweek.
The breakthrough highlights how DNA testing can assist in cold-case investigations.
What To Know
An autopsy report said that Cvengros’ cause of death was incised and stab wounds of neck and torso, and the manner of death was a homicide.
DNA samples from a sexual assault kit, the victim’s nightgown, a comforter, fingernail clippings and multiple cigarette butts were sent to the FBI for forensic examination. In 2012, the FBI determined that the DNA on swabs from the sexual assault kit were consistent with Mudd.
Multiple samples were sent to DNA analysis company Bode Technology for further testing in 2013 and 2014.
In 2005, Mudd was convicted of assault with intent to commit kidnapping while armed, carrying a dangerous weapon and unlawful entry in an unrelated case. During an interview with detectives in 2012, Mudd said the victim in that case was lying and had stabbed herself while high on Ecstasy, according to the affidavit.
Mudd was questioned about Cvengros’ death by detectives in 2023. He said he did not recognize the victim or the house where she was killed. He denied ever committing murder or rape.
Newsweek reached out to the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia for comment.
What People Are Saying
MPD Detective Todd Williams, in an affidavit: “Based on the aforementioned facts and circumstances, your affiant submits that there is probable cause to believe that George Mudd committed the sexual assault and murder of Susan Cvengros.”
MPD Lieutenant Keith Batton, told WUSA9: “Our technology has grown so much from 1999 to now. It’s really grown. So we’re able to utilize some of the new technologies to get us to where we’re at.”
What Happens Next
A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for July 30. Mudd is being held without bond, according to court records.
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