Cold case review is a time-consuming and daunting task that DNA examiners often dread, due to the time and resource limitations that laboratories face. The victims associated with cold cases (and their loved ones) deserve a thorough review of their cases utilizing the current DNA techniques. Cold cases can be reheated by applying an unorthodox approach of making modifications to existing laboratory procedures to the advantage of the evidence. This presentation is meant to inspire DNA analysts to think outside of the box and exploit the tools that are available to them, in a slightly different way than intended, in an effort to solve the “unsolvable”. There will be real world case examples describing how an idea sparked a chain reaction leading to the utilization of validated DNA techniques, extractions, and procedures in novel ways. All the deviations that will be presented were authorized by a Technical Leader, and written documentation was retained in the impacted case files.
Cold case review is a time-consuming and daunting task that DNA examiners often dread, due to the time and resource limitations that laboratories face. The victims associated with cold cases (and their loved ones) deserve a thorough review of their cases utilizing the current DNA techniques. Cold cases can be reheated by applying an unorthodox approach of making modifications to existing laboratory procedures to the advantage of the evidence. This presentation is meant to inspire DNA analysts to think outside of the box and exploit the tools that are available to them, in a slightly different way than intended, in an effort to solve the “unsolvable”. There will be real world case examples describing how an idea sparked a chain reaction leading to the utilization of validated DNA techniques, extractions, and procedures in novel ways. All the deviations that will be presented were authorized by a Technical Leader, and written documentation was retained in the impacted case files.
Workshop currently at capacity. A waitlist is available to join on our registration page.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Elyssa has worked with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for over 14 years. She has found a love for cold cases and a knack for bending the SOP to her will. (All with TL and supervisor approval)
