On Wednesday, July 30, 2025, ABC15 Arizona reported that two judges have recused themselves from the high-profile murder case of Allison Feldman, causing further delays in a legal battle that has persisted since her murder in 2015. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, involves the defendant Ian Mitcham, who has been fighting against the prosecution’s use of DNA evidence.
Feldman was found murdered in her Scottsdale home, and her case marked the first in Arizona to utilize familial DNA to track down a suspect. Although Mitcham was arrested in 2018, various legal challenges have complicated the proceedings. A key issue arose when a judge ruled that Mitcham’s DNA sample, collected during an unrelated DUI incident, could not be used as evidence. This ruling was later reversed by an appeals court, with the Arizona Supreme Court ultimately determining that while the warrantless collection violated Mitcham’s Fourth Amendment rights, police would have likely obtained his DNA through lawful means due to his criminal history.
The recent recusals began with Judge Kristin Culbertson, who indicated her need to step down from the case due to her acquaintance with a state’s witness. Shortly thereafter, Judge Max Covil also recused himself, citing familiarity with the defense attorney and a potential case agent. The case has now been reassigned to Judge Sunita Cairo.
Harley Feldman, Allison’s father, expressed frustration over the repeated judicial changes, noting the emotional strain of navigating the complexities of the legal system. He highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the case, which remains ongoing as Mitcham’s attorneys continue to challenge the admissibility of DNA evidence.
Mitcham is scheduled to return to court on August 8 for a status conference, having pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
Source: ABC15 Arizona
