Forensic Genealogy: Solving Cold Cases with DNA Databases
Forensic genealogy is a relatively new and emerging field that is changing the way cold cases are being solved. Thanks to advancements in DNA databases and technology, law enforcement agencies are now able to use genetic genealogy to identify suspects and victims in unsolved crimes. This groundbreaking technique combines the fields of forensic science and genealogy to bring justice to victims and their families. In this article, we will explore how forensic genealogy is being used to solve cold cases with DNA databases.
The Importance of DNA Databases in Solving Cold Cases
In the past, DNA evidence was only useful if there was a known suspect or a match in the database. However, with the emergence of DNA databases, law enforcement agencies now have access to millions of genetic profiles from both convicted criminals and civilian volunteers. This has proven to be a game-changer in the world of forensic science, as it allows investigators to identify suspects or victims who may not have been previously linked to the crime.
How DNA Databases Work
DNA databases store genetic profiles, or a set of numerical codes generated from a DNA sample, which can be searched against other profiles in the database. These profiles are taken from various sources such as crime scenes, convicted criminals, and family members of missing persons. The more profiles in the database, the higher the chance of finding a match.
There are two types of DNA databases: CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) and GEDmatch. CODIS is maintained by the FBI and contains profiles of convicted criminals and DNA evidence from unsolved crimes. GEDmatch, on the other hand, is a public database that allows individuals to upload their genetic data obtained from popular DNA testing companies like Ancestry and 23andMe. This database has proven to be a valuable tool in solving cold cases as it can identify distant relatives of suspects or victims.
The Role of Forensic Genealogy in Solving Cold Cases
Forensic genealogists use DNA databases to create family trees and identify potential suspects or victims in a cold case. By analyzing the DNA of unidentified remains or evidence from a crime scene, they can determine a person’s ancestry, identify potential relatives, and build a family tree. This process can help narrow down the list of possible suspects or victims and provide valuable leads for investigators to follow.
Case Studies: Proving the Effectiveness of Forensic Genealogy
One of the most notable cases where forensic genealogy played a significant role in solving a cold case is the Golden State Killer case. For over 40 years, this notorious serial killer terrorized California, leaving behind a trail of unsolved rapes and murders. In 2018, using DNA from a crime scene, forensic genealogists were able to identify the killer through his distant relatives in a public DNA database. This groundbreaking technique led to the arrest and conviction of Joseph James DeAngelo for the murders.
In another case, the 1981 murder of 20-year-old Tammy Jo Alexander in New York was finally solved using forensic genealogy in 2016. Due to advances in DNA technology, investigators were able to obtain a full DNA profile of the suspect, but they had no matches in the CODIS database. Through GEDmatch, forensic genealogists were able to identify a relative and narrow down the list of potential suspects. The killer was eventually identified and convicted, providing closure for Tammy’s family after 35 years.
The Future of Forensic Genealogy
The success of forensic genealogy in solving cold cases has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for law enforcement agencies. With the growing popularity of DNA testing, the databases are expected to continue growing, making it easier to identify suspects or victims in cold cases. Furthermore, advancements in DNA technology, such as the use of degraded or touch DNA, are making it possible to obtain viable genetic evidence from older cases, increasing the chances of solving them.
Controversies and Ethical Concerns
Despite its successes, there are also some controversies and ethical concerns surrounding forensic genealogy. Some argue that the use of DNA databases for crime-solving could potentially violate the privacy of innocent individuals and their relatives. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential for racial bias in these databases and the possibility of false accusations based on distant genetic relations.
Conclusion
Forensic genealogy has proven to be a powerful tool in solving cold cases with DNA databases. As technology advances and more genetic data becomes available, the potential for solving cold cases using this method is only going to increase. While there are valid concerns surrounding the use of this technique, it is evident that it has brought closure to many victims and their families, making it an invaluable tool for law enforcement agencies.
