Boone Co. Detectives Solve Rape Case From 1978

The detectives began investigating the case in 2017.

Michael Dean Tate.

(Boone County, Ky.) – Boone County Sheriff’s ‘Cold Case’ detectives have solved a rape case that dates back to 1978.

Detectives began an investigation into the unsolved Park Hills’ rape and kidnapping case in 2017 after noticing similarities to an unsolved homicide in Boone County, reports the NKY Tribune.  

The alleged rape took place at approximately 4:00 a.m. on October 1, 1978.

At the time of the incident, Park Hills Police collected fingerprints from a car door that was closed by the assailant. However, at the time, computerized fingerprint databases did not exist.

The prints were submitted to the FBI, who came back with a match, Michael Dean Tate.

Tate was tracked down at a home in Union County, Georgia.

During an interview with detectives, Tate allegedly admitted to having raped a woman in Kentucky around 1978, in addition to more sexual assaults in at least two additional states.

Kenton County Commonwealth Attorney Rob Sanders commended the cold case detectives for their tenacity and commitment to justice for the victims of sexual assault.

Tate is awaiting extradition back to Kentucky. He faces 10-20 years for each charge.

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.
Rating *

Events

Chamber Announces 2026 Business Award Honorees

The honorees will be celebrated at Chamber's Annual Dinner on November 19

New Trees Planted in Rising Sun Through Small Town Big Trees Initiative

Rising Sun was one of the inaugural grant recipients this past January

Jennings County Football Coach Submits Resignation

Jason Burton led the program for three years.

Switzerland County Golf Star Will Tee It Up at IU Southeast

Alexis Mangold has made her college choice after an incredible high school career.

East Central Lands on IBCA, ICGSA Polls to Start 2026-27 Season

The Lady Trojans have a ton of talent back from a team that won 21 games last season

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
George Birge - Mind On You

Fox News Fox News National Newscast 15:59
Gary Allan Tough Little Boys 15:55
Hank Williams Jr. Honky Tonkin' 15:53
Lauren Alaina Road Less Travelled 15:49