NORTH PORT, FLORIDA, Saturday, September 13, 2008
A man by the name Patrick Dewayne Murphy has been charged with kidnapping, sexual assault and murder in the death of Coralrose Fullwood (a six year old). The DNA found under her fingertips shows that she was alive when Murphy came into contact with her, and that she possibly fought for her life.
The Court has not yet appointed an attorney for Murphy. He could face the death penalty, thus limiting the number of criminal defense attorneys qualified to represent him. The DNA acts as an eyewitness to the case. It is possible for Murphy to get a lesser sentence or to be acquitted if the DNA was not handled properly. Experts from Broward County Florida are expected to review the method evidence was collected later this week.