When a match is obtained between the DNA profile from a crime scene and a profile in CODIS, the crime lab entering the crime scene profile will be notified that an individual matching the profile has been identified in the database. Typically, the crime lab then notifies the last known lead officer assigned to the case. It is not uncommon in cold cases that the original lead investigator may no longer be assigned to the case due to promotion, retirement, or death. Large caseloads within police agencies and limited resources may delay the reassigning of the case to another investigator for follow up.

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