Program Director, Sexual Assault, Child Abuse and Human Trafficking Unit, Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, Atlanta, GA
Since Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo was identified using this technique, forensic genetic genealogy has gained popularity as an investigative tool in solving violent crimes and identifying unidentified descendants. More and more suspects are identified using the analysis of biological samples collected at a crime scene or developed from the remains of Jane or John Doe combined with traditional genealogical research on potential relatives identified in public DNA databases. Nowhere is this investigative technique more relevant than with a cold case sexual assault homicide, deemed otherwise stagnant. This session will provide a detailed overview of how forensic genetic genealogy works, discuss challenges to the process and provide examples of successful forensic genetic genealogy cases.
Objectives
As a result of this webinar, participants will be better able to:
- Define Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG).
- Describe how DNA databases and traditional genealogical methods are used to solve sexually motivated crimes.
- Discuss which DNA databases are and are not available to law enforcement and ethical considerations surrounding FGG investigations.
- Examine Department of Justice guidance on FGG investigations.
Login Join Now