How Forensic Statement & Linguistic Analysis Is Helping Solve Cold Cases

Date of publication: Tuesday 10th June 2025

In the realm of criminal investigation, words can be as revealing as fingerprints. While physical evidence is essential, our team of Forensic Statement & Linguistic Analysis (FSLA) at www.ddlltd.com, bring a powerful, often overlooked dimension to solving cases, especially cold ones.

These techniques focus on how people speak or write, not just what they say. By analysing language for patterns, inconsistencies, and subconscious indicators of deception our trained analysts can extract critical clues that might otherwise remain hidden.

What Is Forensic Statement & Linguistic Analysis?

FSLA is the systematic examination of a person’s words, written or spoken to identify indicators of truthfulness, deception, or concealment. It’s grounded in decades of linguistic research. For example, when people are deceptive, their language often betrays them, even when they’re trying to control it.

Solving Cold Cases Through Language

FSLA has played a vital role in reopening and solving cold cases where traditional leads have long gone cold.

Case Example One: The JonBenét Ramsey Case - One of the most scrutinised pieces of writing in true crime history is the ransom note in the JonBenét Ramsey case. While physical evidence provided limited answers, linguistic experts identified red flags in the note’s phrasing, tone, and length, suggesting it was written by someone close to the family rather than a kidnapper.

Case Example Two: The BTK Killer (Blind, Torture, Kill) - The infamous killer was ultimately caught due to his communication style. Forensic linguists analysed his letters and digital communications, helping police narrow down suspects. His use of specific phrases and stylistic choices eventually pointed to Dennis Rader.

Case Example Three: Cold Confession Analysis - In numerous cold case investigations, re-examining original witness statements, emergency calls, or suspect interviews has unearthed inconsistencies.

Why would you need our FSLA experts?

Whether you’re a law enforcement agency, legal professional, journalist, or private individual searching for the truth, our team at DDL offers distinct advantages because

our FSLA analysts are:

1. Non-invasive and fast. All they need is the subject’s original words.

2. Able to work on historical documents

3. Able to use what you have - they don't need to interview anyone

4. Can identify hidden deception or sensitivity – Even in “clean” statements

5. Able to guide better questioning, revealing where to probe further

6. Expert at providing admissible insights - used to direct investigations, not convict and far more...

Let Us Help You Uncover the Truth

At Deception Detection Lab, we specialise in FSLA techniques and are assisting active investigations, cold cases, and private inquiries which we have uncovered through our training. We have contacted the families who have engaged along with Law Enforcement. Our insights have helped point investigators to overlooked leads, uncover concealed truths, and challenge unreliable testimonies.

If you have a case with lingering questions or if something just doesn’t “sound right,” we’re here to listen, analyse, and support your pursuit of truth.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or case review.

Words don’t lie. Let us help you find the ones that matter.

All blog subjects are identified, validated and written by the DDL Team.

See www.ddlltd.com for more on Deception Detection Lab Ltd.