For law-enforcement agencies

Forensic Genetic Genealogy

Investigative genetic genealogy to help develop leads and identify individuals in appropriate cases — plus training for agencies building this capability.

Overview

Combining genealogy with investigative discipline

Forensic genetic genealogy combines analysis of genetic matches with traditional genealogical research to generate investigative leads in qualifying criminal investigations and unidentified-human-remains cases. Christine Burke brings a working investigator's discipline to this specialized field, documenting the research and reasoning so investigative teams can evaluate and act upon the resulting leads.

Genetic genealogy develops leads for investigators to pursue; it complements, and does not replace, established forensic and investigative processes.

Professional photograph of Christine Burke at her desk with dual monitors displaying data analysis and organizational charts
The process

How an investigation typically proceeds

01

Case assessment

Evaluate whether a case is suited to investigative genetic genealogy and what inputs are available.

02

DNA data and match analysis

Evaluate qualifying DNA data and genetic matches made available through authorized genealogy databases in accordance with applicable policies.

03

Genealogical research

Build and analyze family trees from genetic matches to develop investigative leads.

04

Investigative lead development

Develop candidate leads, document the supporting genealogical research, and provide findings to the investigative team for independent verification.

Agency investigations

Genetic genealogy support for qualifying cases, coordinated with your investigative team.

Policy-aware practice

Work conducted with attention to applicable database policies and investigative standards.

Training & capability building

Instruction for agencies developing in-house genetic genealogy capacity.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Discuss your case or investigation

Every engagement begins with a confidential conversation about scope, timeline, and how an independent review can help.