A Deerfield Beach cold case that haunted the community for nearly four decades has finally been resolved, thanks to advances in DNA technology and the dedication of a Broward Sheriff’s Office detective. The breakthrough offers a sense of closure for a crime that once seemed forgotten.
The case dates back to July 1987 when an 85-year-old woman was brutally attacked in her apartment on North Federal Highway. The assailant entered through her balcony, tied her up, and assaulted her at knifepoint before fleeing with stolen items. Despite the terror of that night, detectives were unable to secure a conviction due to the limitations of forensic technology at the time.
Deerfield Beach police initially led the investigation until the Broward Sheriff’s Office took over in 1990. Early on, detectives suspected Gregory Rollison, who had been linked to a similar violent attack days later. However, without the necessary DNA evidence or victim identification, charges could not be filed.
Years later, Detective Andrew Gianino, who had responded to the 1987 scene, pushed for a re-examination of the evidence using modern DNA technology. His persistence paid off when a DNA profile matched Rollison, who was already serving time in California for another violent crime. On August 2, 2026, Rollison was extradited to Broward County, where he now faces charges related to the 1987 assault.
“For people to know and maintain hope, so long as there’s DNA there’s always a chance,” Gianino remarked, highlighting the importance of perseverance and innovation in solving cold cases.
Though the victim has since passed away, the pursuit of justice continues as prosecutors prepare to move forward with the case in Broward County court. This breakthrough not only addresses a long-standing injustice but also demonstrates the power of DNA technology in solving crimes that once seemed unsolvable.
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