Partial Match Searching
By Chris Asplen
Apparently, the “National” DNA database isn’t very national. The state, or more appropriately officials in the state, that maintains the offender information can choose not to release that information.
Making Sense of DNA Backlogs—Myths vs. Reality
By
Policymakers ask why DNA backlogs persist even after the federal government has provided hundreds of millions of dollars to eliminate the backlog. This is a fair question; to answer it requires understanding both what a backlog is and how backlogs can be reduced. This report addresses that question and the answers to it.
Local Databases
By Chris Asplen
By turning DNA profiles around quickly and by putting hit information into the hands of all officers immediately, the Palm Bay Police Department, with its local DNA databasing system (LODIS), has effectively implemented DNA technology and databasing as an investigative tool.
Working Together To Solve Crime
By Stephanie Stoiloff, Paul Ferrara, Randy Nagy
Partnerships between public and private labs can help reduce DNA backlogs by providing the extra resources public labs often lack.
New Tools Enhance Forensic DNA Casework Analysis
By Lisa Schade, BS, MHR, Arthur Eisenberg, Ph.D.
New laws are increasing DNA caseloads, but recent and upcoming technology is helping to close the gap and improve the quality of forensic DNA testing and analysis.
The Database Dilemma
By Chris Asplen
The past several months have been full of contrasts and contradictions. We have seen fascinating cases solved illustrating the incredible effectiveness of forensic DNA technology.
The Cost of Serving Justice
By Chris Asplen
In June, the United States Supreme Court issued one of its most significant opinions affecting the use of forensic science in the courtroom: Melendez-Diaz v.Massachusetts.
In Memoriam: Pedro Aragonez
By Chris Asplen
Pedro Aragonez, 42, was murdered in front of his son in Ciudad Chihuahua, state capital of Chihuahua. The assassins ambushed his SUV as he waited for a traffic light and sprayed it with bullets.
Finally—It's here!
By Chris Asplen
Finally, an independent and respected research institution has substantively proven it. The investment in DNA technology to solve volume crime makes tremendous sense.
Tackling the Backlog Using Automated Differential Extraction
By Ryan Olson, Curtis Knox
A look at an automated method to overcome the limitations of standard differential extraction using phenol:chloroform or organic extraction.
The Federal Reauthorization of DNA Funding
By Chris Asplen
In 2002, I was living in London, England, when a scandal hit the front page of every major newspaper. It was a problem so significant and a scenario so unacceptable that the British Home Office called for immediate action and remediation. The scandal?
DNA Technology as an Effective Tool in Reducing Crime
By Howard Safir
Data from numerous sources provide the necessary information to demonstrate a reduction in crime.
The Evolution of Forensic DNA Laboratories and The Challenges They Face
By Lisa Schade, BS, MHR, Lisa Calandro, Dennis J. Reeder
Exciting developments are on the horizon that will increase sample throughput at a lower cost while requiring less personnel resources.
