What if forensic science could improve sexual assault investigations while making the process less invasive for survivors?
At ISHI 35, Brittney Svoboda, a forensic scientist at the Cuyahoga County Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, shared research that is reshaping how forensic DNA analysts could approach sexual assault cases. By analyzing 425 real-world cases, her team found that non-traditional evidence swabs (breast, inner thigh, etc.) can provide stronger DNA profiles than conventional serology testing.
🔬 Inside this interview:
➡️ Why her forensic lab is shifting away from traditional serology testing
➡️ How intimate samples are yielding stronger CODIS-eligible DNA profiles
➡️ What this means for forensic efficiency, case resolutions, and survivor experience
As forensic science evolves, this research highlights a major shift in sexual assault investigations—one that could speed up casework while improving DNA recovery.