DNA a focus again in Antonio ‘AJ’ Armstrong criminal trial

A.J. Armstrong sits down exclusively with KPRC 2 reporter Rilwan Balogun and KPRC 2 Investigates producer Jason Nguyen for his first interview since being convicted in August 2023 of murdering his parents when he was just 16 years old. (AMontes, Copyright 2023 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

Attorneys are once again scrutinizing the DNA evidence in the case of convicted killer Antonio ‘AJ’ Armstrong.

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KPRC 2 Investigates was the first to tell you about the Houston Forensic Science Center terminated Forensic Analyst Rochelle Austen.

Antonio "AJ" Armstrong Jr. Brady Notice (Harris County Courts)

Austen’s involvement in 392 Brady Notices, particularly in high-profile cases like that of Patrick Clark, who stands accused of the murder of Migos rapper Kirsnick Khari “Takeoff” Ball, has raised serious concerns.

Now, it has come to light that Austen may have handled DNA processing in the Armstrong Jr’s case as well.

AJ Armstrong exclusive interview (KPRC 2)

Armstrong’s attorney Rick DeToto tells us, “We are investigating the termination of the analyst who may have been involved in testing DNA and/or blood in AJ’s trial. With all the issues in this case-not disclosing evidence, losing evidence, and suddenly finding evidence the day before trial - the termination of an analyst who handled forensic evidence in AJ’s trial is deeply disturbing.”

Austen who worked for HFSC was terminated for possibly switching DNA and being involved in a chain of custody mix-up.

Armstrong who continues to say he is innocent was convicted for killing his mother and father, Dawn and Antonio Armstrong Jr. in July of 2016. He is serving a life sentence with an option of parole after 40 years.


About the Author

As an Emmy award-winning journalist, Jason strives to serve the community by telling in-depth stories and taking on challenges many pass over. When he’s not working, he’s spending time with his girlfriend Rosie, and dog named Dug.

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