Philadelphia Police- Solving Cold Cases with DNA

This funding to the City of Philadelphia will allow for case screening and in-depth investigation (both for pre- and post-CODIS hit). Cases files will be searched for evidence that can be analyzed or, in some cases, re-analyzed for a DNA profile. The task force will perform an exhaustive case-by-case review for probative evidence prior to submitting evidence for biological analysis. In addition, overtime will also be allocated for forensic scientists assigned to Criminalistics to perform analysis for the presence of biological evidence. Finally, overtime funds will support follow-up investigation. The grant will also fund a district attorney to work on a part time basis with investigators, victim advocates and forensic scientist to review cold case files. The district attorney will provide legal guidance and liaise with the police department on matters such as statue of limitations, chain of evidence custody, securing a fresh DNA sample from an identified offender and application for a John Doe Warrant based on a DNA profile.

ca/ncf