Using the ForenSeq Kintelligence Workflow with Difficult Samples for Forensic Genetic Genealogy
Using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies for forensic investigations has gained interest over the past few years due to the possibility of obtaining more information from a DNA sample left at the crime scene, especially in the presence of mixed contributors. The development of new workflows to be used with the MiSeq® FGx Sequencing System opens […]
The Missing Piece Episode 6: Mary Catherine Edwards
In January 1995, the parents of Mary Catherine Edwards, a “well-loved” Beaumont, Texas school teacher, went to her home to check on her. Mary lived alone, had not responded to calls and her parents were concerned. Upon arrival, they found she had been drowned in her bathroom. Beaumont detectives later determined that the […]
Mama’s Baby, Papa’s Maybe: How Misattributed Parentage and Other Challenges Can Complicate Your Investigative Genetic Genealogy Case
DNA Doe Project is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to name the nameless – to identify John and Jane Does using investigative genetic genealogy. While the humanitarian efforts of the group are the primary focus, I am pleased to write this guest blog for our friends at ISHI to share knowledge and contribute to […]
The Missing Piece Episode 5: Darrell Splett (McHenry County John Doe)
Hikers in the Rush Creek Conservation Area of Harvard, Illinois discovered a body near the Rush Creek Trails in May 2019. The McHenry County Conservation Police responded to the scene and discovered the remains of a middle-aged white man. He was clothed in winter attire including multiple layers, a hat, hand-knitted scarf, and […]
The Missing Piece Episode 4: Shawna Beth Garber (Grace Doe)
In December 1990, a couple walking on a rural road in Southwest Missouri discovered the decomposed remains of a young woman. She had been hog-tied and dumped next to an abandoned farmhouse. Detective Howard was told that it would be only by the “Grace of God” that they could find out who she […]
Previewing the Posters of Our ISHI Student Ambassadors: Olivia McCarter
Investigative genetic genealogy is becoming a popular topic in the forensic community for its use in solving previously “unsolvable” cold cases for law enforcement. The United States, unfortunately, has very high rates of infanticides–or the murder of a child younger than four years of age. Because these children are so young and have likely not […]
Under the Microscope – Lawrence Wein
The genealogy process is typically the most time-consuming part of – and a limiting factor in the success of – investigative genetic genealogy. In his presentation at ISHI, Lawrence Wein will present a systematic approach to efficiently perform the genealogy portion of investigative genetic genealogy. He and his colleagues have formulated a two-stage mathematical model […]
The Missing Piece Episode 3: Rodney Johnson (Lake Stickney John Doe)
The search for answers began in 1994 when a fisherman discovered a body in the lake. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s office determined the deceased to be between 25 and 35 years old and the victim of a violent homicide. Multiple varied facial reconstructions were made for the victim over the years, in […]
Under the Microscope – Ed Green
Rootless hair is widely regarded as a poor source for DNA-based forensics. However, rootless hair shafts are known to contain preserved DNA that can be recovered and analyzed even after thousands of years. Ed Green and his partners have developed technology for exploiting the DNA found in rootless hair for forensic applications. In his presentation at […]
