Biography
United States Marine Corps.
Criminal Justice Degree.
Patrol Officer.
Undercover Narcotics Officer.
Undercover FBI Task Force.
District Attorney's Office County Detective.
County Drug Task Force Supervisor.
Cold Case Detective.
Best Selling Author.
TV Producer and Personality.
Private Investigator.
Cold Case Consultant.
Detective Kenneth Mains has built an extraordinary career spanning over two decades, fueled by his deep passion for helping families find closure in cold cases. Widely regarded as one of the nation’s top cold case investigators, Mains has earned his reputation by merging forensic science, criminal profiling, victimology, and crime scene analysis, becoming a critical figure in solving long-standing mysteries.
Mains holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Lock Haven University and has completed master's degree coursework in Forensic Criminology with a focus on Criminal Profiling. His academic and professional background has equipped him with the skills needed to tackle the complexities of unsolved cases with precision and insight.
As the founder of the American Investigative Society of Cold Cases (AISOCC), Mains has spearheaded efforts to reopen and solve cold cases, working with law enforcement and families to find justice. His law enforcement career includes pivotal roles with the Williamsport Bureau of Police, the FBI, and the Lycoming County District Attorney's Office, where he investigated everything from narcotics to homicides and organized crime, establishing himself as a well-respected leader in the field.
Early in his career, Mains' leadership skills were evident when he was elected Class President and awarded the Leadership Award at his Police Academy. Throughout his career, he has been honored with numerous accolades, including Police Officer of the Year, the Gallantry Star for Acts of Distinguished Bravery, and three Officer of the Quarter Awards for his exceptional police work.
Mains is also a respected true crime author. His books, including Unsolved No More, Echoes of Evil, Forgotten, and the two-part series Murder of Gail and Tamara, offer readers a deep dive into his investigative approach and his unwavering commitment to solving cold cases.
In addition to his literary contributions, Mains has made rare media appearances on major networks, sharing his expertise with Fox News, News Nation, CNN, and Newsweek. His television experience is also vast—he has been featured as the on-air expert in the History Channel’s five-episode 'Hunt for The Zodiac Killer' series, Discovery Science Channels 'Conspiracies Decoded' show, Investigative Discovery's 'Lethally Blonde' and Reelz Channel's 'When Friends Speak'.
His YouTube show, Unsolved No More, has amassed over 120,000 subscribers, where his direct, no-nonsense approach to investigating cold cases continues to captivate a growing audience.
Despite his success in the entertainment and media world; Mains' true passion lies in investigating cold cases and bringing closure to victims' families. His unwavering commitment ensures that no case is forgotten, making him one of the most trusted voices in cold case investigations today.
What Other True Crime Legends Say
"Kenneth Mains is an experienced and hard working detective. He has vast of knowledge in criminal investigation, human behavior and forensic evidence. I had some excellent working experience with him."
- Dr. Henry Lee - World Renowned Forensic Criminologist
"Ken Mains is an experienced investigator with a vision. His drive and devotion to solve 'cold cases' have no parallel. Without Ken, these crimes would continue to collect dust in file drawers. I consider Ken Mains one of the top detectives in this country. I am proud to know him."
- Werner U. Spitz, MD, FCAP, World Renowned Forensic Pathologist
" Ken Mains is a professional investigator with a stellar reputation and is motivated by the best possible reason: he wants to give a voice to all the tragic souls who have been silenced. Ken has established relationships with the top professionals in many fields related to criminal investigations and utilizes their knowledge in his work. I cannot think of a better choice for cold case investigations."
- Lt. Joe Kenda (ret) - Legendary Homicide Detective from Investigative Discovery's Hit Television Show 'Homicide Hunter'.
“ The investigation, analysis, and resolution of cold cases in real life is more complex and challenging than what is portrayed in the world of fiction. Experience, dedication, perseverance, and keen intellect are necessary for successful outcomes. Kenneth Mains possesses all these qualities and utilizes his acquired skill to help bring closure and comfort to puzzled agencies and grieving families."
- Dr. Cyril Wecht - World Renowned Forensic Pathologist
Kenneth is an experienced investigator and trusted friend and colleague. His organizational skills and ability to gather a team of national experts in all fields related to Violent and Sexual Crimes is phenomenal. I have a tremendous amount of respect for his investigative insights and his integrity as an honest and hardworking professional."
- Jim Clemente Former FBI Senior Criminal Profiler and Writer for TV Show 'Criminal Minds'
"You have done an amazing job!! Just Amazing! I am proud to be affiliated with you and your work." - Dr.Mary Ellen O’Toole - Former FBI Criminal Profiler
Ken Mains works with relentless determination to put together puzzles left behind in cold case files. Mains knows that every unsolved murder has a story to tell, and he has a knack for seeking patterns and clues that were missed. To me, he’s a true hero who has a heart of gold. - Aphrodite Jones, Bestselling True Crime Author