In addition to the high resolution afforded by DNA analysis, genetic information can be derived from nearly any biological material, such as blood, semen, saliva, bone, teeth, hair, and soft tissues.  This is a critical feature that distinguishes DNA from other forensic identification disciplines. The features of forensic DNA typing include analysis of trace quantities of biological evidence (down to the equivalent of a few cells) and potential attribution to a few individuals—if not a single individual. High throughput sequencing and use of single nucleotide polymorphisms have enabled forensic DNA typing to detect distant kinship associations which, in turn, generates more investigative leads.

These advances have brought Forensic Genetic Genealogy to the forefront. The latest enhancements offer more investigative leads due to greater detection sensitivity and analysis of highly degraded samples. This is especially true in cases where current standard typing (short tandem repeat markers) and DNA database searches do not provide viable leads.

In this important session, Dr. Budowle will help attendees understand how to assess DNA evidence (e.g. triaging) to determine which tool(s) is best suited to help solve their case. By bringing greater awareness to the value and power of DNA, users can help reduce trauma and uncertainty for victims and their families.

Dr. Budowle will also explain forensic DNA typing, including types of genetic markers, various forensic technologies, examples of applications, and summaries of relevant cases. He will discuss the benefits of and types of DNA databases to identify recidivists and to reduce the number of future victims.

Finally, attendees in law enforcement will be introduced to advanced DNA technologies that can develop investigative leads in cases that have remained unsolved while learning how to triage biological evidence to make informed decisions on the technologies and laboratories to employ for casework analyses.

This technology suite includes ultra-sensitive DNA extraction, SNP capture, and extended kinship prediction, which allows for human identification that is more discriminatory than current CODIS STR profiling. These methods have recently revealed the identities of fragmentary remains belonging to George Washington’s grandnephews. They are now being put to rigorous validation tests required under forensic accreditation standards before they can be used for U.S. military service member identifications. This technology will be especially powerful for the disinterred unknowns from the Korean War and World War II, when postmortem chemical treatments led to severe DNA damage that is on par with the age-related DNA degradation of ancient Neandertals. This session will highlight the ways in which this technology revolution will benefit the most difficult cold cases and unidentified human remains.

At ForTech, Det. Smith will discuss the complex process of implementing Genetic Genealogy (IGG) in criminal investigations and the intricacies of using these technologies effectively and ethically. In this session, he will delve into:

• Strategic methodologies for IGG investigations.
• Legal considerations and compliance in the application of IGG.
• Laboratory protocols and best practices in IGG.
• Funding mechanisms and resources for IGG initiatives.
• The Canadian perspective on IGG advancements and challenges.
• Analyzing IGG case studies for practical insights.
• Detailed walkthrough of the IGG process from DNA collection at crime scenes to successful arrests.

Detective Smith's session will provide invaluable insights, backed by his significant contributions to the field. Attendees will gain comprehensive knowledge and practical insights, enhancing their capabilities in applying these techniques to cold cases.

In this fireside chat, Rep. Gillespie and Othram CEO David Mittelman will explore strategies to support the equitable advancement of these new technologies through legislation. They’ll discuss the education that needs to occur among lawmakers and the need for sound metrics to evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the technology.

Lawmakers, law enforcement, and forensic professionals will all benefit from hearing about groundbreaking legislative and funding measures, such as federal grant programs and private-sector partnerships to support these investigations. By optimizing approaches for the most efficient, equitable, and impactful outcomes in bringing justice and answers for families, FGG and related technologies will have the best chance at becoming a standard part of the investigatory toolbox at all levels.

Attendees will break into groups to propose feedback for policies and guidelines, ensuring the ethical and responsible use of genetic genealogy in investigations. Furthermore, participants will brainstorm wishlists for new functionalities and strategies to streamline the workflow from lab to database search, making it more seamless and useful for investigators. The session will also emphasize the importance of training and education for law enforcement and forensic professionals in utilizing forensic genetic genealogy tools effectively.