Willard Library will host author and former cold case investigator Paul Holes for an evening discussion of his book “Unmasked: My Life Solving America’s Cold Cases” on Thursday, Oct. 30, 6 p.m. at the Kool Family Center (200 W. Michigan Ave.) 

Reference Librarian (and true crime enthusiast) Brenna LaForge described Paul Holes mass appeal. “Everyone from those interested in true crime, criminal justice, forensic science, genealogy, and inspiring stories of perseverance – to fans of shows like ‘Mindhunter’ or true crime documentaries will enjoy this program,” she said.  

Holes is a retired investigator for Contra Costa County in the San Francisco Bay Area. He specialized in cold case and serial predator crimes, and lent his expertise to multiple high-profile cases including the murder of Laci Peterson and the kidnapping of Jaycee Dugard. He was the Lead Cold Case Investigator for the Golden State Killer case, which he was instrumental in solving. 

LaForge expounded on Holes’ career significance, “He specialized in DNA analysis during the early days when the technology was still new to law enforcement. His persistence and innovative methods made him a leading force in forensic genealogy and cold case investigation.”  She continued, “His pioneering method is the reason so many long-standing cold cases are now being solved, including the infamous Golden State Killer, who eluded law enforcement for 44 years.” 

Since retiring in 2018, Holes has dedicated his life to advocating for cold case victims and their loved ones. Apart from his memoir, he also co-hosts podcasts, has an Oxygen Network TV Show, “The DNA of Murder,”  and has become the face of advancing the use of DNA and genetic genealogy to solve cold cases. 

LaForge described his memoir; “In ‘Unmasked,’ he takes us along with him as he recalls how he started as a forensic scientist in 1994, when the technology wasn’t really there, up until his retirement following the major events of 2018. He doesn’t hold back about his career, and all the ways in which he feels like he failed- both as a detective and as a person.” She praised his transparency and honesty in the book, “ Like most of us, he struggled to find balance in his life. He desperately fought to support victims and their families, but nearly lost his own family in the process. Throughout it all, his tenacity and passion for bringing justice to those whom the world seemed to have forgotten is a testament to how one person can make a huge difference.” 

Holes will share insights into his career, the investigation into the Golden State Killer, and his book. Afterwards, the library will host a Q&A with questions selected ahead of the date. Attendees may submit questions for Mr. Holes through this form on the library’s website, or by filling out a form, available at both library locations. A book signing will follow, and New Story Community Books will be on hand selling copies of “Unmasked” and similar titles. 

For those interested, the library also hosts a monthly true crime club, “Armchair Detectives” which next meets on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m in the downtown lower level. 

LaForge is excited for the evening ahead. “This is a really exciting opportunity for library guests to hear directly from someone who has had such a significant impact, as Paul Holes is a major figure in both modern criminal justice and pop culture,” she said.

Willard Library programs are free and open to the public.