Bonnie Bossert presenting investigative genetic genealogy to Robson Ranch residents
Pat Sand
The Ropin’ In Yer Relatives Genealogy Club held a free seminar on Oct. 28. Bonnie Bossert, a genetic genealogist, presented a seminar explaining how law enforcement utilizes DNA to solve crimes and identify remains. Bonnie explained that it’s not DNA alone that solves the crimes, but through solid investigative work along with DNA, crimes are being resolved in many cold cases.
There are two sites that law enforcement uses for criminal cases: GED Match and Family Tree DNA. For other genealogy sites, a warrant is required. The average time to clear a case using DNA is 12 months.
The process includes a genetic genealogist building a family tree from DNA, which is either obtained from the crime scene or from other evidence such as cigarette butts, fingerprints, discarded coffee cups, etc. A genealogist will identify the most recent and common DNA relatives and build a tree to identify the suspect. Law enforcement then compares that information to data held in CODIS (Combined DNA Index System), which is a computer software program that operates local, state, and national databases of DNA profiles from convicted offenders, unsolved crime scene evidence, and missing persons. DNA can only be utilized in certain crimes: murder, kidnapping, sex offenses, aggravated assault, terrorism, and ongoing threats to public safety or national security. Some states are now enacting laws requiring genetic genealogists to be certified and licensed. Using genetic genealogists to solve crimes is an expensive process with costs upwards of $25,000. Many states are looking to bring investigative genetic genealogy in-house to improve efficiencies and reduce costs.
Ropin’ In Yer Relatives meets the first and third Tuesday of every month from November through March. Meetings are at 6 p.m. in the Laredo Room. To join, bring your dues of $20 ($25 for a couple) to a meeting.