FBI Releases Nearly 500 Pages of O.J. Simpson Records
The FBI has made public nearly 500 pages of documents related to O.J. Simpson, following his death two months ago. These records focus on the criminal investigation into the 1994 murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman, in which Simpson was identified as a suspect.
Details of the Investigation
Simpson consistently claimed innocence and was acquitted in the highly publicized criminal trial. However, he was subsequently found liable for the deaths in a civil lawsuit and ordered to pay $33 million to the victims' families.
The FBI records primarily examine forensic evidence, including fiber samples collected during the investigation.
Shoe Evidence and FBI Tracking
A significant portion of the records discusses the FBI's efforts to trace the purchase of Bruno Magli-style size 12 shoes, a critical piece of evidence in Simpson’s trials. An FBI expert testified that the size and brand of the bloody shoeprints left at the crime scene matched Simpson’s shoe size.
During the civil trial, Simpson denied ever wearing Bruno Magli shoes. Yet, photos later surfaced showing him wearing that brand, contradicting his testimony.
FBI Methods and Findings
- The records include FBI notes and photographs regarding the shoes.
- They detail attempts to connect Simpson to the purchase by contacting various stores selling Bruno Magli shoes.
An FBI expert testified at the criminal trial that Simpson's shoe size matched the bloody shoeprints left behind at the scene of the murders.
The release of these documents sheds new light on the forensic inquiries that were central to the legal battles surrounding O.J. Simpson.
Author's summary: The FBI's newly released documents reveal detailed forensic investigations and efforts to link O.J. Simpson to critical evidence in the 1994 murder case, highlighting ongoing interest in the case years later.