Robert Plympton Convicted in 1980 Cold Case Murder of Barbara Mae Tucker

Using DNA evidence from discarded gum, authorities solve a four-decade-old murder mystery in Oregon.

In a groundbreaking resolution, Robert Plympton was found guilty of murdering Barbara Mae Tucker, a 19-year-old college student, in 1980.
The conviction was made possible by DNA evidence from a piece of chewing gum discarded by Plympton in 2021.
This case marks the oldest cold-case homicide solved in Gresham, Oregon, thanks to advances in DNA forensic technology.
Plympton, who was 16 at the time of the murder, faces a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 30 years.
The verdict brings closure to Tucker's family, who expressed relief and gratitude for the resolution of the case.