Patrick Streater, who was charged in the deaths of two woman more than a decade ago, wants an apology, saying he never should have been charged in the Exotic Tan murders.
While prosecutors dropped the charges, they stopped short of saying DNA cleared him. Streater wants people to know he is innocent, but also knows some people may still doubt him.
Streater knows police continue to investigate the Exotic Tan murders, but he no longer wants to be linked to the case.
"I'm trying to move on. I don't want any type of backlash or anything, but I think the investigation was botched," said Streater.
He still remembers the day five years ago when Metro Police Chief Steve Anderson announced his arrest for the 1996 murders of Melissa Chilton and Tiffany Campbell.
"I think at this point we have said all we can say today. We are confident we have a good case, but that's all we can say today," said Chief Anderson back in 2013.
Of course, we now know the case was not good. Additional testing of the DNA evidence could not link Streater to the crime.
"Kudos to the D.A. for the extensive DNA testing. If not, for the high end testing I would probably still be in jail," said Streater.
Prosecutors last week nolled the case, meaning they chose not to move forward because the DNA evidence was too weak to carry the burden of proof.
"I was a little disappointed, but I know it's going to be solved," said Gail Chilton, Melissa's mother.
She is not giving up hope. Does Chilton feel Streater is still a suspect?
"I don't feel he is excluded. I think it's just not enough to go on at this point," said Chilton.
"I understand that she goes by what the police tell her," said Streater.
Streater also understands the families disappointment, and sympathizes with their loss.
He's just sorry some may still have their doubts about him.
"It hurts us that maybe they still feel I'm responsible for this in some way," said Streater.
But he said he served two and half years behind bars awaiting trial for a crime he didn't commit.
Streater can't help what people think but says no evidence links him to the case. He's free. And he wants to get on with his life.
Streater is seeking employment and plans to live in the Nashville area.
MORE:
Formerly Charged Suspect Speaks Out After Cold Case Charges Dropped
Prime Suspect In Notorious Nashville Cold Case Released From Jail
1996 Double Homicide Suspect Released On Bond
Potential Troubles With DNA Evidence Harms Cold Case Prosecution
