Paul Holes

Paul Holes is a former cold-case investigator whose career with the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office placed him at the center of significant criminal investigations in American law enforcement. After earning a degree in biochemistry from UC Davis, Holes attended the police academy and began working in the crime lab, where he developed expertise in forensic science and criminal investigation. Sworn in as an investigator, Holes first encountered the cold case files of the East Area Rapist, a discovery that influenced the trajectory of his work in criminal justice.

During his 27-year tenure, Holes applied investigative, behavioral, and forensic skills to high-profile cases, including the Zodiac, the Golden State Killer, and the Jaycee Dugard kidnapping. He is recognized for his role in solving the Golden State Killer case, utilizing DNA analysis and genetic genealogy to help identify Joseph James DeAngelo. Holes collaborated with genealogist and scientist Barbara Rae-Venter, who used DNA evidence to construct a genetic profile and family tree that narrowed the suspect pool.

Following his retirement, Holes contributed to books, television, and podcasts focused on the Golden State Killer and true crime. He appeared in the TV series "America's Most Wanted" and "The DNA of Murder with Paul Holes," and co-hosted the podcast "The Murder Squad." Holes also co-hosts "Buried Bones" with Kate Winkler Dawson and has been featured on the "My Favorite Murder" podcast. His work in media has established him as a prominent voice in the true crime community.

Holes documents his career in the memoir "Unmasked: My Life Solving America's Cold Cases," co-authored with journalist Robin Gaby Fisher. The book provides an insider perspective on major criminal cases, including the Golden State Killer, Laci Peterson's murder, and Jaycee Dugard's kidnapping, and achieved New York Times bestseller status. Holes addresses the personal impact of his work, discussing the psychological challenges associated with investigating violent crime and the effects on his own well-being.