DNA Findings Don't Exclude Gardner From Case

A forensic scientist testified Wednesday that some sperm found on the clothes of a young girl in the Michael Gardner sexual battery case does not match Gardner's DNA.

Instead, Kelly Loynes said the sample matches that of the girl’s father. But Loynes, with the Virginia Department of Forensic Science, said Gardner could not be excluded because his DNA matched that found elsewhere.

Gardner is on trial for sexual abuse allegations made against him by three young girls, two of whom say they were attacked during a June 2011 slumber party for Gardner's daughter. 

A man who was a guest in Gardner’s home during the sleepover has been excluded through DNA testing, Loynes said.

Loynes and three city of Falls Church police officers testified Wednesday in Arlington County Circuit Court about the evidence collected in the investigation. One victim's father gave emotional testimony about the day his daughter told him Gardner touched her. That girl .

Gardner is accused of touching two girls in a sexual manner during his daughter's sleepover. They were 9 and 10 years old at the time. A third alleged victim, who was 10 at the time, has accused Gardner of touching her in a sexual manner in a separate incident. The third girl testified in July about the separate incident, which allegedly happened June 16.

Gardner's children and wife  are expected to take the stand during the trial. Robin Gardner is a current Falls Church councilwoman and former mayor of the city.

Gardner has posted a $50,000 bond.