The forensic science community faces a significant challenge with the backlog of sexual assault evidence kits (SAEKs). Delays in processing these kits stem, in part, from the complexity of extracting and analyzing degraded and mixed DNA samples. read more

As Kentucky State Police continues to suffer from a backlog inside its forensic labs, a new proposal from Mayor Linda Gorton may help alleviate some of the delays for crime victims and their families. read more

Qiagen has announced a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to develop a novel test for its QIAcuity digital PCR devices that will boost forensics by improving the quantification of DNA in human samples. read more

Murder of teen babysitter in Colorado Springs solved decades later through genetic genealogy DNA analysis using public commercial DNA databases. read more

After nearly five decades, the Lubbock Police Department (LPD) has solved a previously unsolved murder from 1976 using new DNA testing. Texas Rangers next used a SAKI grant in 2021 to investigate and prosecute cold sexual assault cases in the area. Using this grant funding, the Texas Rangers suggested to the Lubbock Police Department to submit untested evidence on April 19, 2021. read more

In early 2025, the Arkansas State Crime Lab is launching a new Forensic Pathology Fellowship Program. The forensic pathology fellowship program is a collaborative initiative between the ASCL and the Department of Pathology of the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS). The fellowship’s mission is to enhance the health, safety, and well-being of Arkansans. It aims to educate professional, board-qualified forensic pathologists to deliver competent, independent forensic pathology services to the families, communities, and stakeholders they serve. read more

Using standard forensic STR testing, the Mississippi Forensics Laboratory compared a profile from a DNA sample to a profile developed from a DNA sample that was collected from the victim’s sex assault examination. This comparison confirmed that Derrick Washington was the person who sexually assaulted the victim read more

The facial reconstruction was developed by a forensic artist with the Texas Department of Public Safety. The University of North Texas Center for Human Identification is currently in the process of utilizing forensic genealogy in an attempt to identify the male. read more

Around the world, countless species are being driven closer to extinction, in part due to wildlife crime. Criminals, meanwhile, are making billions from the sale of protected wildlife products – and becoming ever defter at avoiding detection. read more

With a new generation of students inspired to become forensic scientists, it is critical to ensure they can pursue educational pathways that promote strong scientific knowledge, clear ethical practices, and familiarity with advanced technologies. read more