How the Cold Case Coalition can help

We operate a state of the art forensic DNA laboratory, the only nonprofit lab in the United States. We offer affordable (and in some cases, free) DNA testing to law enforcement, families, attorneys, and others.

Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) is a way to identify unknown suspects by comparing crime scene DNA with public DNA databases.

We can assist with gathering, reconstructing, and reviewing records, including assessments of avenues to follow up, technological advancements, and other case options.

Ground penetrating radar can look for unmarked graves and buried evidence.

Our underwater remote operated vehicle - "Alicia" - can search for submerged automobiles and other cold case material.

It's harder to work on cold cases without at least some records. We have extensive experience and legal training in cold case research, including public records laws, archival sources, court records, arrest records, etc. We also assist in retrieving and storing records provided by families, former law enforcement, and others.

Because our volunteers include private investigators and attorneys, we have access to certain databases not generally available to the public.

We have many subject matter experts who consult or provide services on a voluntary or reduced rate basis. Experts available include: DNA, genetic genealogy, pathology, cadaver dog searches, law, attorneys, investigators, translators, writers, sketch art, cell phone data extraction, computer restoration, records retrieval, drones, munitions.

We generally recommend that forensic investigation be left to law enforcement. But if you're hesitant (for example, you're not sure whether a bone is human or animal, or whether a substance is blood), we can check for you. We can also check for blood and other bodily fluids on things like basement floors, carpets, etc.