Danish man sentenced to over a decade in prison for 34-year-old murder case solved through genealogical research

A Danish man has been sentenced to 11.5 years in prison for a murder committed 34 years ago. Henrik Krogh Rasmussen, a 54-year-old man from Randers, was found guilty of killing 23-year-old Hanne With. Despite a criminal history, including theft and drunk driving, Rasmussen had led a seemingly normal life, working at various slaughterhouses, marrying multiple times, and becoming a father and grandfather.

This is the first time in Denmark that genealogical research has been used to convict a perpetrator. The method is currently being used in at least seven other murder cases. The arrest was made in February this year based on DNA traces found on the victim’s trousers. In 2024, the police collaborated with the Institute of Forensic Genetics in Copenhagen to investigate the traces, using so-called genealogical research. This involved comparing the DNA found at the crime scene with the police’s DNA register, leading them to Rasmussen through his son’s DNA.

Psychologist Florence Mclean, who specializes in criminal profiling, was not involved in this case but has extensively studied the psychology of murderers. She states that people who can commit murder and hide it have a different psychological profile than average individuals. They can compartmentalize the violent act and continue living a normal life. Mclean often sees that murderers do not feel guilt or shame for their actions. They may convince themselves that the victim was responsible or deserved it, downplaying the severity of the act.

In this specific case, Rasmussen denied his guilt throughout the trial, claiming to have experienced a blackout on the night of the murder. Mclean mentions that blackouts can occur under specific circumstances, often involving certain drugs, but they can also be a psychological defense mechanism when one cannot remember something.

Following the verdict, Rasmussen requested time to consider appealing the case.