local
Turning memories into justice: Mother and daughter sketch artists helped crack major cases
By Karyn Greer at WSB-TV (ABC) - News
· July 9, 2026
· 3 min read
It’s a skill that can turn memories into evidence and, in some cases, break investigations wide open.When there is no photo, no video and few leads, investigators turn to a different kind of tool, a forensic sketch.A Georgia native and her mother are behind some of the images that have helped to ...
Key takeaway Channel 2’s Karyn Greer sat down with them both to see how they continue bringing a voice to the voiceless.
Why this matters in The Atlanta
The work of Kelly and Marla Lawson has a direct impact on the community, as their forensic sketches have helped bring closure to families of victims in major cases. Their contributions to law enforcement have been instrumental in solving crimes, including the Centennial Olympic Park Bombing, which is still a significant part of Atlanta 's history. The Lawsons' dedication to their craft is a testament to the importance of forensic art in the investigative process. As the city continues to grow and face new challenges, the role of forensic artists like the Lawsons will remain crucial in helping law enforcement turn memories into evidence. Their legacy serves as a reminder of the tireless efforts of those working behind the scenes to bring justice to the community, and their work will undoubtedly continue to make a difference in the lives of Atlantans. The Lawsons' story is a powerful example of the impact one family can have.
About this story
Original reporting by WSB-TV (ABC) - News . The Atlanta surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSB-TV (ABC) - News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 9, 2026 ·
Source: WSB-TV (ABC) - News ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? It’s a skill that can turn memories into evidence and, in some cases, break investigations wide open.When there is no photo, no video and few leads, investigators turn to a different kind of tool, a forensic sketch.A Georgia native and her mother are behind some of the images that have helped to ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 9, 2026 by WSB-TV (ABC) - News and curated for The Atlanta readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Karyn Greer at WSB-TV (ABC) - News. To learn more about how The Atlanta selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Atlanta, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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