When a crime occurs, investigators weave a complex web with each thread representing a potential lead, witness, or piece of evidence. In many cases, especially those involving violent crimes or high-profile individuals, DNA testing becomes the most crucial thread in the web, and yet, it’s often the very result that investigators anxiously wait for. Every minute matters, not only to solve the case but also to ensure public safety as communities await answers and justice.
Here are some strategies to speed up the DNA testing process in urgent cases:
Prioritize High-Stake Cases
Many public crime labs handle thousands of pieces of evidence annually including a backlog of sexual assault kits. For urgent cases, like a homicide with a suspect still on the loose, the first step is communicating the case’s priority. Most crime labs have a standard operating procedure for prioritizing and escalating high-profile or time-sensitive cases like homicide.
Rapid DNA Technology
Advancements in DNA testing have opened the door for faster results with technology like Rapid DNA. It can cut down the time needed for testing as profiles can be generated in as little as 90 minutes. While it can provide quick initial results, Rapid DNA technology can be less sensitive and robust than conventional laboratory DNA processing. If concentrations are low or there are mixture profiles, it might be not the best method to use. However, when applied under optimal conditions, it might help guide investigators toward suspects or clear individuals early in the process.
Collaborating with Public Crime Labs
Many public crime labs are at capacity handling both routine casework and a backlog of untested sexual assault kits. However, collaboration between labs and law enforcement can sometimes uncover ways to speed up the testing process. Public labs are increasingly adopting automation technologies to speed up their workflows. Automated DNA extraction processes can reduce human error and increase throughput enabling labs to process evidence faster than traditional methods.
Seeking External Partnerships
As referenced above, when public labs are at full capacity and cannot meet the needs of urgent cases, looking beyond the in-house resources becomes the next option. One solution is working with private forensic DNA labs that can provide faster turnaround times by dedicating resources to specific cases. While public labs serve a large volume of cases, private labs often can focus on fewer, more urgent cases allowing them to expedite results. For agencies looking to fast-track DNA results, having relationships with private labs already in place allows them to act quickly when urgent cases arise.
Utilizing Grant Funding for Resource Expansion
For public crime labs struggling to meet demand, expanding their output with additional resources can make a big difference. While budget constraints may limit their immediate growth, grant funding is often available for labs and law enforcement agencies looking to expand their forensic DNA capabilities.
Grants can help labs purchase new equipment, hire more staff, or invest in technology that accelerates DNA analysis. Grants can also be used to fund validations of new equipment or kits which help with implementing new DNA analysis methods.
Some grants also allow public labs to outsource part of their caseload to independent forensic labs. This outsourcing can be especially beneficial for high-priority cases where rapid turnaround is essential. By partnering with private labs, public agencies can work to reduce their backlog, focus on in-house priorities, and ensure that urgent cases move forward quickly. This type of flexible funding empowers crime labs to meet demand without overextending their existing resources.
Keep Communication Lines Open
Another effective strategy is keeping close communication between investigators, prosecutors, and the forensic labs. By understanding the specific needs of each case, labs can make informed decisions about prioritizing DNA testing. For instance, a case that is nearing trial may need a quick turnaround on DNA results to meet court deadlines. Clear, ongoing communication helps labs prioritize appropriately without bottlenecks.
By implementing these strategies, law enforcement agencies can navigate the complexities of DNA testing in urgent cases more effectively while expediting the delivery of critical results for the investigation.