After years of relentless pursuit, the District Attorney Greg Willis’s Office has secured a life sentence for the infamous Sorority Rapist, Jeffrey Wheat. The breakthrough in the case came through the utilization of Forensic Genetic Genealogy, marking a significant milestone in criminal investigation techniques.
The case dates back to April 2, 2011, when Plano Police responded to a disturbing sexual assault incident where the perpetrator entered the victim’s home through an unlocked window while she slept. Similar offenses occurred in Coppell and Corinth within the following months, all linked through DNA evidence. Dubbed the Sorority Rapist Investigation, the case garnered attention as several victims were affiliated with the same sorority.
In 2018, Cold Case Detective Bryeans took on the investigation, marking the beginning of an intensive review process. With the aid of CAPers Senior Coordinator and Sex Offender Registrar Clements, Detective Bryeans meticulously analyzed genetic reports, eventually identifying a potential familial DNA link to the elusive suspect.
Through exhaustive investigation and interviews, Jeffrey Wheat emerged as a prime suspect. Notably, Moses Wheat, Jeffrey's brother, currently serving a sentence for similar offenses in Alabama, became a pivotal lead. Cooperation with the Alabama Department of Corrections facilitated the acquisition of Moses Wheat’s DNA, revealing a significant sibling relationship with the suspect.
Further investigation conclusively pointed to Jeffrey Wheat as the perpetrator of the assaults. Despite the complexities of the case, Detective Bryeans and Ms. Clements tenaciously pursued every lead, ruling out other potential suspects and obtaining crucial warrants.
Following the execution of a search warrant, Wheat’s DNA matched that found at the crime scenes, confirming his identity as the Sorority Rapist. The culmination of the three-year investigation, involving extensive collaboration and thousands of work hours, brought closure to the victims and justice to North Texas.
Plano Police Lieutenant Matthews commended the efforts, stating, “Great job, Detective Bryeans! You and Jane put so many hours into this case and significantly impacted the lives of so many people.”
The successful resolution of the case underscores the efficacy of forensic genetic genealogy and the dedication of law enforcement agencies in ensuring justice for victims of heinous crimes.
