Tri-County Detention Center/YouTube
Popular crime YouTube channel Explore With Us has helped crack a cold murder case dating all the way back to 1984.
Explore With Us, commonly abbreviated as EWU, is a crime media network with several YouTube channels documenting crime, police reports, mysteries, and more.
EWU’s videos receive tens of millions of views with millions of subscribers across multiple channels, and while they typically just cover crime, in this case, they’re helping solve one.
On April 30, the Illinois State Police issued a statement announcing the arrest of a man in a 42-year-old cold case and credited EWU for helping with the investigation.
EWU funds DNA testing leading to arrest in 1984 murder
According to the Illinois State Police, 76-year-old George E. Bradfield was arrested over four decades after 26-year-old Lisa Ann Carnes was found dead in a field.
Carnes had died from a single gunshot wound, and for years, no arrests were made, with no suspects ever being identified or charged. That was until EWU funded DNA testing.
FBI/Illinois State Police
“After more than 42 years, this is a major step toward justice for Lisa and her family,” the channel said. “Our thoughts remain with her family, loved ones, and the entire community as the case moves forward.”
State Attorney Josh Stratemeyer said he couldn’t reveal more information about the case, but more details are due to be released.
Bradfield has since pleaded not guilty and has been extradited from Daviess County Detention Center in Owensboro, Kentucky and brought to Southern Illinois. He’s been charged with five counts of murder.
This isn’t the first time YouTubers have helped law enforcement. Last year, a massive international fraud network that stole more than $65 million from seniors was shut down after YouTubers Scammer Payback, and creators from Trilogy Media carried out sting operations that assisted the FBI.
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