After more than six years, a body pulled from a pond in North Stockton has been identified, authorities said.
Using forensic DNA analysis, the woman’s identity was confirmed as Jaymie Renee West, who was reported missing in 2018.
West’s remains were found in a pond near Eight Mile and Rio Blanco roads in Stockton’s Bear Creek District in August 2018, according to Othram, the forensic DNA analysis company that helped identify her.
Because of the body’s severe decomposition, investigators were able to estimate only that it was a female between 25 and 50 years old, approximately 5-foot-8 and weighing about 90 pounds.
Among the few personal items found with the body were a single cork wedge sandal and a copper-colored braided ring.
Despite years of investigative efforts, law enforcement officials were unable to identify the body. So in 2022, the Stockton Police Department, the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s Office and the California Department of Justice partnered with Othram.
Using advanced genome sequencing and forensic genetic genealogy, Othram scientists developed a DNA profile that provided investigators with key leads. The work ultimately led to the confirmation of West’s identity.
The identification is the 53rd case in California in which Othram’s technology has helped law enforcement solve a previously unidentified case. The investigation was funded through the Roads to Justice program, which supports forensic casework.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding West’s disappearance and death. For more details on similar cases, visit DNASolves.