FamilyTreeDNA launches effort to help FBI crack cold cases with its consumer DNA database

4-3-2019 ap f b e c e edbf c ac ffba cbb a s c
Alleged Golden State Killer. Image: Rich Pedroncelli/AP

A private genetic testing company who agreed earlier this year to work with the FBI in an effort to solve crimes like murders has put out a new ad asking people to help it hunt down criminals.

The direct-to-consumer DNA testing company FamilyTreeDNA announced in a press release in January [2019] that “after receiving inquiries from the FBI,” it decided that it could “in good conscience and without violating consumers’ trust” help the FBI identify the remains of deceased persons or perpetrators of violent crimes. Previously, only GEDMatch allowed for law enforcement usage.

“Join the Family Tree DNA database by uploading your genetic file for free and help bring closure to families and victims,” FamilyTreeDNA now states on its site.

“Opinions will be divided but this will lead to more victims getting justice, more victim’s families getting answers, and getting predators off the street before they rape and/or kill again – this will save lives,” Investigator and DNA expert Paul Holes tweeted [January 31] in response to the news that FamilyTreeDNA agreed to help the FBI.

Read full, original post: DNA Database Hoping To Catch Criminals Wants To ‘Help Bring Closure To Families and Victims’

{{ reviewsTotal }}{{ options.labels.singularReviewCountLabel }}
{{ reviewsTotal }}{{ options.labels.pluralReviewCountLabel }}
{{ options.labels.newReviewButton }}
{{ userData.canReview.message }}
screenshot at  pm

Are pesticide residues on food something to worry about?

In 1962, Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring drew attention to pesticides and their possible dangers to humans, birds, mammals and the ...
glp menu logo outlined

Newsletter Subscription

* indicates required
Email Lists
glp menu logo outlined

Get news on human & agricultural genetics and biotechnology delivered to your inbox.