Investigative Genetic Genealogy: A New Era for UK Policing

From returning names to unidentified human remains to solving cold case sexual offences and murders, IGG offers unprecedented opportunities to provide resolutions to families and deliver justice.

IGG combines traditional genealogy with DNA analysis to trace individuals through their family connections. First pioneered in the USA, this method has already helped solve notorious cases such as the ‘Golden State Killer’. By analysing DNA found at crime scenes and comparing it to databases of voluntarily submitted genetic profiles, investigators can build family trees to identify potential suspects or victims. This technique goes beyond conventional forensic methods, offering a new avenue for cases that had previously hit dead ends.

However, the UK has yet to fully embrace IGG. While we have world-leading forensic capabilities, legislative and ethical considerations have slowed its adoption. My Churchill Fellowship research explored how the UK could implement IGG responsibly, ensuring it is used ethically and effectively within our legal framework.

Through my Fellowship, I had the privilege of meeting with experts across the USA, Canada, and Sweden to understand how different jurisdictions approach IGG. One key takeaway was the importance of robust oversight – ensuring that IGG is used in a way that respects privacy, follows ethical guidelines, and serves the public interest.

I also witnessed first-hand the life-changing impact of this technique. Families who had spent years searching for answers finally received resolutions. Police forces that had exhausted all traditional methods found fresh leads. It was clear to me that the UK cannot afford to be left behind.

We stand at the cusp of a major shift in UK policing. The ability to solve cases that have remained unsolved for decades is within reach, but we must act now to develop a clear legal and ethical framework for its use. This means:

1. Establishing clear policies on when and how IGG can be used
2. Ensuring transparency and public trust through ethical oversight
3. Investing in training and resources for police forces to use IGG effectively

Encouragingly, there is growing momentum for these conversations. This very month, I have been invited to a reception at the House of Lords, arranged by Baroness Kennedy of the Shaws LT KC, to discuss the use of IGG in the UK. This is a significant step towards making IGG a reality for UK policing and ensuring that justice is served for victims and their families.

My work does not stop here. I will continue to advocate for the responsible implementation of IGG, working with policymakers, police forces, and ethics experts to develop a framework that balances innovation with public trust. The potential impact of IGG is too great to ignore and it's time for the UK to take action.

If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved in these discussions, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we can help shape the future of cold case investigations in the UK and bring long-overdue answers to those who need it most.

You can connect with Emma on LinkedIn or Instagram.