New DNA evidence has led local investigators to a suspected serial rapist.

Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine believes Brandon Weathers is responsible for a string of cold-case rapes in North Omaha between 2002 and 2004. Kleine said: "This shows us the power of forensic DNA evidence."

Investigators found Weathers in prison, already serving 100-160 years for another rape. His victim in that case was his 13 year-old foster daughter. The sexual assault resulted in a pregnancy.

WOWT 6 News checked Weathers' criminal history and discovered that before he was a foster parent, Weathers was already a felon. He was convicted for theft and burglary.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services prohibits some felons from becoming foster parents - including anyone convicted of abuse, neglect, or a violent crime. Other felons, however, are eligible to become foster parents five years after their conviction or at the Department's discretion.

Lisa Blunt, Chief Operating Officer at the Child Saving Institute, told WOWT 6 News: "That's the minority of the folks who wish to become foster parents. We have so many wonderful foster parents in the community. And they serve a vital role."