NORFOLK, Va. — Nearly 40 years after Norfolk Police discovered a woman murdered in her Norfolk home, the alleged killer is behind bars.
The Norfolk Police Homicide/Cold Case Section, in partnership with NCIS, the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Allegan County, Michigan Sheriff’s Office, and the Michigan State Police arrested a 70-year-old Dennis Lee Bowman for his involvement in a 1980 murder.
On September 11, 1980, 25-year-old Kathleen Doyle was found murdered in her Norfolk home. She was the daughter of a naval officer and the wife of a U.S. Navy pilot, who was deployed at the time of the murder.
Police arrested Bowman in Allegan County, Michigan, where he now lives.
"It occurred about 39 years ago so it’s a substantial amount of time. It is definitely a cold case, so we’re excited for Norfolk PD to help them and be able to bring closure to the victim and the victim's family," said Allegan County Sheriff Frank Baker.
In a press release, Norfolk Police said detectives and NCIS agents have been unyielding in their efforts to bring Doyle’s killer to justice, adding that help from forensic evidence led to Bowman's arrest.
In a statement, Norfolk Police Chief Larry Boone said:
This 39-year-long investigation demonstrates the Norfolk Police Department’s commitment to pursue justice for victims and their families no matter how long it takes. No victim is ever forgotten. I would like to recognize the women and men of NCIS for their commitment to this case. NCIS has been partnered with us from the beginning of this investigation, and their contributions throughout the years have been instrumental in solving this case. I would also like to thank the Allegan County, Michigan Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, Ottawa County, Michigan Sheriff’s Office, and North Carolina State Police, for their assistance.
Police said Bowman is being held in the State of Michigan, awaiting extradition to Virginia.