Affirmations

In every police agency, there are officers who, because of their commitment and dedication, set themselves apart from their peers. Assigning Ken as a County Detective to work cold case homicides was a natural fit. Never motivated by professional accolades, Ken was driven daily only by the relentless pursuit of the truth. Truth on behalf of the victims who were lost, and truth on behalf of the families who survived and now seek only answers. - Eric R. Linhardt, Formerly District Attorney of Lycoming County, Currently Judge, Court of Common Pleas

Ken approached us with an unwavering determination to tackle an old missing person case that he believed to be suspicious. Given the exceptional quality of his work, it was no surprise when his dogged determination revealed that the case was indeed a homicide. His relentless investigative abilities led to identifying a suspect who tragically committed suicide when confronted by Ken. No one will ever outwork this investigator. It was an honor to witness his dedication from the very beginning. –Glenn Ardrey, Captain (ret), Williamsport (Pa), Bureau of Police

I have had the distinct privilege to work with Detective Mains on a host of investigations at the State and Federal Level. Detective Mains possess a unique blend of natural curiosity, tenacity, and insight that balances an investigator's skepticism, allowing him to see through the fog and not get focused on what can sometimes appear to be the obvious. Detective Mains has an innate ability to sift through the evidence and develop perspectives that are often overlooked and not get drawn into the "one track" mindset. Detective Mains will follow the evidence, to eliminate any possibility to ensure that the victim’s family gets the justice they deserve. There is no stone Detective Mains will not overturn, or conversely no feather Detective Mains is afraid to ruffle to advocate for the victim, and their family. There is no better champion for those who have suffered unimaginable suffering at the hands of a criminal who thinks they got away with it. There is no one more relentless in the pursuit of the truth than Detective Mains. In my career as a criminal homicide investigator I can say without reservation Detective Mains is one of the finest investigators, men of character and compassionate officers I have had the honor to work with. - Anthony R. Fritz, Corporal, Pennsylvania State Police (Retired)

One of the things I noticed about Ken was he looked at case/facts differently than others. An example of that was he solved a case based up the number of items in a dishwasher that didn't make sense based upon the amount of people that were supposed to be in the house at the time of the crime. Another example which still bothers me is the MATTHEWS homicide and the fact he noticed the knife was put into the dish / silverware dryer upside down. Something that simple can change the direction of an investigation. As investigators we all have egos if we didn't we wouldn't be doing what we do. Ken has an ego but he’s smart enough to keep it in check and listen to other people's opinions on the case and respect their point of view and take another look through their glasses. It’s a rarity to have someone smart, street smart with great common sense from the other side of the tracks doing our job. Someone who isn't lazy and won't let the case go because its about the victim and the families impacted by the crime. – David Burns, Pennsylvania State Police (ret), Former County Detective

I first met Ken Mains when he reported to the Special Operations Training Group in 1993. His quick wit, positive attitude, aggressiveness, and attention to detail were quickly evident. He demonstrated a quick grasp of complex challenges and found solutions with little supervision or guidance. His integrity is above reproach, and his leadership skills are exceptional. He is dependable, mature, aggressive, and has my highest endorsement. – Martin R. Berndt, Brigadier General, USMC

As a retired detective with over 34 years’ experience in police procedures and homicide investigations, I have had the opportunity to meet and work alongside Ken Mains. Ken has always offered a fresh look and even new and improved techniques in investigating unsolved homicide cases. I have watched his tenacity and diligence in leaving no stone unturned, particularly when working missing persons cases. Ken possesses all of the practical knowledge in teaching and sharing with future or current investigators. - Sal LaBarbera, retired homicide supervisor, Los Angeles Police Department

Ken Mains once again proves why he's a leading expert in cold case murder investigations, and why his methodology is tried and proven. In 2022, while on death row at San Quentin. I reached out to Ken, after seeing him on the TV series: The Hunt For The Zodiac Killer. At the time, I'd been working on a series of cold case murders for nearly ten years, related to one of the most prolific serial killers in history. This monster had written a murder list that law enforcement had used to tie him to the rape murder of four woman, and sentence him to death. However, the remaining entries on the list remained unsolved. That is, until Ken entered the investigation. Within 48 hours of receiving the evidence I had provided, he'd solved the first murder, and since then solved the rest. In my opinion, Ken Mains is the real deal. An expert, and cold case detective without peer. His resume is unquestionable. But what sets him apart is his integrity, and single-minded focus on the victims and their families. The world is a safer place because detective Mains stands on the wall between the monsters and the public. -William A. Noguera, Criminal Profiler, Serial Killer Expert & Author

During my career in Law Enforcement, I was honored to work with Detective Ken Mains. Having met Ken as a young Patrolman, I had the privilege to witness his passion to help victims of crimes and his relentless pursuit of those who committed those crimes. When Ken came into the Detective unit, I had the pleasure of working with him daily on cases that ranges from narcotics to homicides. Ken's passion was not just within his career but also and most importantly his family and friends. Unlike most in our field, Ken was able to balance his professional career with being a great father and husband. Throughout our tie together, Ken taught me invaluable lessons about empathy, integrity, and the power of teamwork. As I reflect on our journey, I carry his passion with me, striving to honor his commitment to both the badge and his bond with God and family. - Edward McCoy, Chief Detective, Retired

I first contacted Ken approximately one year ago to share some information about an investigation he was conducting at the time. I was immediately intrigued with his investigative techniques and his unique ability to evaluate an incident. During my 13 years in law enforcement, I have seen a lot and worked with many seasoned investigators. Ken is by far at the top of that list. His passion, competence, intelligence, and willingness to help victims and their families is second to none. I would feel comfortable handing any investigation to him, with the upmost confidence it would be handled appropriately. - Kyle Butler, Pennsylvania State Trooper

HOPE, GRADITUDE, EXPERTISE, RESPECT.........these are 4 words that describe what Ken Mains has given us in his investigation of the unsolved murder of our mom, Stephanie Coyle, July 1993. From our first meeting with Ken, to the completion of his very thorough investigation, we have felt confident in his capabilities to do all he could in the effort to find our mom's killer. He provided us a very detailed report of his intense investigation under difficult circumstances and uncooperating law enforcement agencies, and to this day, he is always there to answer any questions. His detailed explanations of the crime scene, have given us a clearer understanding of what may have occurred. Ken Mains is a man of integrity and honor, who treats the victim’s family with great care and respect, which we have found to be very rare in our situation. We will always be grateful for Ken's knowledge and compassion while working with us. - Dan & Barb Coyle

We honestly didn’t have any more hope for justice for my sister Gail or my niece Tamara. That is until I met Detective Kenneth Mains. He wasn’t assigned the case…he asked for it! He wasn’t like any other Detective I have ever met. He cared! He not only legitimately cared about Gail and Tamara but he legitimately cared about our entire family. Putting in countless hours just sitting in our living room explaining to us what he’s doing or what he is planning on doing next in order to get justice for Gail and Tamara. He always stood up for our family, even when it meant he would be reprimanded. This man brings a whole new meaning to never giving up. Here we are, a decade after he first started investigating this case, and he still reaches out to me to see how I am doing. Long after others have come and gone Ken Mains remains a constant figure within this case and within my family. He stands side by side with us, fighting for justice. That’s a real true detective. – Julie Stroble

It has been an absolute privilege to witness Kenny Mains' unwavering dedication to cold cases. His passion shines through every page of his book, offering a fresh, new-age perspective and invaluable insights that inspire both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of what it takes to solve a cold case and why they become cold cases in the first place. As a police officer myself, I have had the opportunity to meet Kenny a few years ago, and I must say that his work has not only inspired me in my career but has also helped me realize that my limitations are endless. Kenny's unique approach to cold case is truly remarkable. He meticulously dissects, digests, and finds things that people have missed. His ability to provide reassurance and honest opinions has been invaluable to me, and I know that I can always count on him for great advice. The real privilege is to watch Kenny flourish in this profession, doing it the right way, and being successful – Brandy Perchinski, Police Officer 

My sister Joline Witt was murdered in 1997. I had met Ken in 2015 when I received a message on social media from a family member of a victim that was murdered. It was also a cold case. She said Ken would like to speak with me about my sister's case. I was curious as what he had to say so I reached out and made an appointment to speak with him. At this time Ken worked at the district attorney's office. I met with him and I was impressed how he was interested in helping. I have met with detectives about my sister's case in the past and they would ask just a few questions but then they would just brush things under the rug. They did this just so they can say they have met with me but then I would never hear a word from them for years. Any time I had questions or maybe had new information that could help, I would reach out and Ken always responded in a timely manner. I never felt like Ken was trying to dismiss any of my thoughts or information about the case as I have felt with other law enforcement that had questioned me in the past. I was very impressed with his investigation on Joline’s case. He was very caring, heartfelt, and you could see how much he cares about cold cases and how these victims and their families deserve justice. As an investigator going over the case looking at all the details of the case, I believe he is on point with who is responsible. - Cassie Witt

Even during our police academy days, I knew Ken Mains was destined for big things. His maturity, sense of duty, military bearing, and quiet confidence set him apart from the other cadets in the class. Which is certainly why the academy brass elected him to be our class’s first lieutenant. Ken’s natural leadership skills were evident and so was his humility. What’s more, you knew if things were to ever get dicey out on the street, Ken would be the first guy running to join you in battle. The great thing about Ken is that despite all the years that have passed since the academy, despite the successes he’s had over his career, he’s still the same mission-focused, good-natured American street warrior he was back then. If I were assembling a team of tenacious, savvy investigators to hunt down bad dudes doing bad things across the country, Ken Mains would be right there at the top of the list. I've always thought he was a man among boys in the 83rd Police Academy. He was the epitome of squared away and yet could still relate with everyone. –Dony Jay, active-duty police detective and author of The Warrior Spy and Nathan Press thriller series.

 I have developed the highest regards for Kenneth, and he has earned my respect and loyalty. During this time, he was working for an organization titled "Special Operations Training Group." During this tour of duty, he was involved in classified military special operations as well as daily supervision of subordinates in the accomplishment of a myriad of complex tasks that kept the organization functioning smoothly and efficiently. He has always proven his capability of understanding complicated multi-layered tasks, prioritizing, and seeing project through to completion. Kenneth impressed me with his thirst for knowledge and he is a veracious reader, exceedingly conversant in history, politics, and military affairs. He has honorably served his country, and I feel that if he had decided to remain in the United Staes Marine Corps, he would be a cornerstone of any organization he was a member of. – John Lynch, MSgt USMC

 In the summer of 1996, my sister and her two children were attacked by an unknown intruder in their upper-middle-class neighborhood. The intruder killed my two young nephews, ages five and six, and nearly killed my sister by cutting her throat. The injuries were severe, but by the grace of God, she fought to live, only to be wrongfully convicted of the crime and sentenced to death in a small, conservative Texas town. As I began this journey of advocating for my wrongly convicted sister, I was introduced to Ken Mains by a friend who followed him. Once I watched a few of his investigations, I knew I needed to have a conversation with him. Not only was Ken kind and compassionate toward my situation, but he was also authentic and real with me as a person. I have followed several of his investigations and read his writings, finding them to be incredibly useful. On several occasions, I have shared ideas and thoughts with him, and he has always been quick to provide his honest feedback, including the rationale behind his opinions. Ken has helped me realize that researching these cases requires a different lens. He is thorough in his work and in his explanations. He has definitely restored my faith in detectives and the criminal justice system. I know that he does what he does with pure intentions, and that is obvious. His desire to help others by solving cases outweighs all other motivations. As a detective, he continues to inspire others to search for the truth and to question what we THINK we know in order to uncover what we need to know. Weeding through conspiracy theories and media smoke and mirrors is one of his many strengths, and I am personally so grateful for that. - Danelle Stahl Fugate, youngest sister to Darlie Lynn Routier, Aunt to Devon and Damon Routier

First and foremost, we would like to thank Ken for everything that he has done for my family. I contacted Ken about my mom, Brenda Condon, missing for 33 years. Ken agreed to take on the case and began the painstaking task of uncovering 33-year-old information relevant to the case. Ken did an excellent job with the legwork to actually find and speak to persons of interest. He kept an open mind and followed the facts instead of making assumptions. He was also very professional and methodical with the investigation. While Ken was actively investigating, he remained transparent and forthcoming. He was able to come up with a logical explanation backed by the information he was able to obtain. Ken was able to give my family more information in two months of investigation than the other investigators have in 33 years. His logical explanation as to what happened that fateful day has satisfactorily suppressed the anxiety of the unknown. – Todd Condon and The Condon Family

I have known Kenny for most of my life. I started working with and for him in 2016 as an undercover officer. Watching Kenny take every case as if it were his last, to the finish line was incredible. Over the past 9 years in my law enforcement career, he has been the most loyal, dedicated, and driven individual I’ve ever seen when it comes to solving a case. He has the mindset of “never give up” which is such an inspiration to others. The passion he has for victims and their families is something not everyone has and is hard to find, but Kenny is known for it. He is the best I’ve ever seen solving cold cases. I will forever be grateful that I got a small piece of his knowledge that I will use the rest of my career. – Cassandra McCormack, Police Officer, Lower Merion Police Department