Brianna Denison disappeared on Sunday, January 20, 2008, while visiting friends near the University of Nevada, Reno campus. Denison's body was found on February 15, 2008. Police used DNA evidence to confirm links to two previous sexual attacks in Reno.CNN: Serial Rapist Suspected in Student's Slaying
On November 25, 2008, authorities arrested 27-year-old James Biela in connection with Denison's murder. Biela plead not guilty to the charges on January 2, 2008. His trial date was tentatively set for February 22, 2010.CNN: Former Marine pleads not guilty to raping, killing college student (January 2, 2008)
Brianna Denison Abduction
On January 20, 2008, Denison was last seen sleeping on the couch at a friends apartment after an off-campus party. Her friend woke up to find a blood stained pillowcase where Denison had slept. Her cell phone, shoes and pocketbook were left behind.CNN: Serial Rapist Suspected in Student's Slaying
DNA Links to Serial Rapist
DNA evidence taken from the crime scene linked the same man to at least two other attacks in the Reno area. The Reno rapist's DNA does not match the DNA of anyone in the National DNA Database.CBS News: Cops Release Description Of Reno Kidnapper (January 29, 2008) According to police, the rapist leaves behind a strange "calling card." At each crime scene, the rapist leaves the panties belonging to his last victim.CNN: Serial Rapist Suspected in Student's Slaying
