NCJ Number
207862
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 52 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2004 Pages: 140,142,143
Editor(s)
Ed Sanow
Date Published
October 2004
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes Texas’ Missing Persons DNA Database used as a tool to identify the remains of victims and bring closure to unsolved missing persons cases.
Abstract
When officers examine the remains of a victim, usual methods of identification such as fingerprints or dental records don’t always give the identity of the victim. This can be caused by natural decomposition, damage from animals, and other numerous circumstances. Texas developed the Missing Persons DNA Database as a new tool for use in identifying the remains of victims. Texas works with the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System or CODIS and is able to upload and share data with Federal databases. The Texas database is exclusively for the DNA of missing persons and families. Samples are taken to be analyzed and sent to the University of Texas forensic DNA laboratory. DNA is analyzed and tested for two types of DNA: mitochondrial (MtDNA) and short tandem repeat, or STR. All family reference samples are tested against both types of DNA: STR and MtDNA. Using this technology and sharing the data between agencies allows police from different areas to potentially clear cold cases from their caseloads and give families some form of closure.