Elgin Community College Presents Criminal Justice Conversations: Inside a Cold Case Investigation

For nearly 42 years, the disappearance of Karen Schepers remained unresolved until 2025, when the Elgin Police Department’s Cold Case Unit’s renewed investigation led to the discovery of her remains. On November 18,  Elgin Community College (ECC) will welcome unit detectives from the investigation for the third installment of its Criminal Justice Conversations series, Inside a Cold Case Investigation. 

The event will offer attendees a behind-the-scenes look at how investigators revisited the decades-old case, employed investigative techniques, and leveraged public outreach, including the department’s “Somebody Knows Something” podcast, to generate new leads.

Guest speakers include Sergeant Matt Vartanian, Detective Andrew Houghton, Detective Chris Hall, and Detective Beth Sterricker of the Elgin Police Department.  

“Hearing from detectives who solved a cold case helps community members understand the persistence and teamwork behind an investigation, the importance of tips from the public, and what finding answers means to victims' families,” said Todd Ramljak, associate professor of criminal justice at ECC. 

Following the presentation, the detectives will participate in a panel discussion on the challenges of cold case investigations and how modern technology and public outreach can help move cases forward.

This conversation will be held November 18, from 6 to 8 pm at 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, in Building B, Room B181 (Community Room). Attendees may participate in person or virtually via Zoom. Those attending virtually will receive a Zoom link via email after registering. 

The Criminal Justice Conversation Speaker Series aims to bring students, college employees, and community members together to learn about real-world criminal justice issues through the experiences and expertise of people working in the field. It is an opportunity for informative discussions about issues affecting the justice system and the wider community. 

To register, visit the Criminal Justice Conversations Registration Form.