SoFIGG Inaugural Symposium

Co-author: Dr Marie-Louise Kampmann

Abstract

Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) has emerged internationally as a powerful investigative tool for resolving serious unsolved crimes. In Denmark, legislative amendments effective July 1, 2025, have enabled the use of FIGG.

The Section of Forensic Genetics, University of Copenhagen, Denmark is responsible for carrying out the genetic profiles for FIGG. This presentation outlines the implementation of FIGG in Denmark with focus on the underlying methodology for generating the optimal genetic profiles for FIGG. 

Initially, a systematic evaluation was conducted to determine the most suitable method for FIGG profile database upload, comparing amplicon-based sequencing (Verogen ForenSeq Kintelligence Kit), array-based genotyping (Infinium Global Screening Array), and whole-genome shotgun sequencing (WGS). WGS was found to be the most effective for our workflow. Consequently, we assessed different library preparation protocols for WGS with standard forensic DNA extraction methods to ensure compatibility with existing trace and casework-type samples. In parallel, multiple data analysis pipelines were benchmarked to optimise the genetic data output from different sample types. Additionally, we developed a sample quality evaluation tool to assess the usefulness and maximum reliable relationship inference of the sample prior to FIGG database upload.

Furthermore, we have also investigated whole transcriptome shotgun sequencing as a method for FIGG. Our results showed that it can give sufficient genetic data for relationship inference, offering an alternative to DNA, when this is limited as RNA is present in higher copy numbers than DNA. Additionally, RNA-based analyses offer the added advantage of simultaneously providing information on trace sample type (body fluid identification).

About the speaker

Jeppe Dyrberg Andersen is an Associate Professor at the Section of Forensic Genetic, University of Copenhagen. His research specialises in the analysis of genome-wide data, encompassing both the whole genome and transcriptome, specifically from low-quality biological samples. His work spans diverse forensic applications, including Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG), human identification (HID), and body fluid identification. He played a central role in implementing whole-genome sequencing (shotgun sequencing) workflows for HID and FIGG in Danish casework and is now involved in the generation of HID and FIGG profiles in suitable cases. He has co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles, serving as senior author on 17.

Abstract

Nearly 50 years of unanswered questions came to a close in May 2024, when the Alberta, Canada RCMP and the Calgary Police Service announced a breakthrough in four Calgary- area homicides from 1976–1977— Eva Dvorak (14), Patricia “Patsy” McQueen (14), Melissa Rehorek (20), and Barbara MacLean (19) — and publicly named the offender: Gary Allen Srery.

Presented by the two investigative genetic genealogists involved in the identification, this case study details the investigative genetic genealogy (IGG) methodology that supported that identification, from the first workable genetic matches to the final confirmation steps. We will walk the audience through how we approached the case as genealogists: building a targeted research plan from distant DNA connections, developing and narrowing hypotheses through historical record research and researching family-line pathways until a single explanation fit both the genetic evidence and the historical record.

It will also detail the man behind the search, a prolific offender who was arrested in California in 1961 and did not completely stop until 46 years later. He proved exceptionally difficult to track: a transient man living in Canada illegally, working under the table, frequently changing his appearance, residence, and vehicles, all while using multiple aliases across multiple provinces and states. The investigation also highlights a critical turning point in modern cold cases: a suspect profile that went over 20 years with no databank hit before IGG became available.
Attendees will leave with a clear, practical understanding of how FIGG is applied in a complex, decades-old case, and how disciplined genealogical reasoning can help bring long-awaited answers in cold case investigations.

About the speakers

Devon Griffin, AIGG
Investigative Genetic Genealogist, Convergence Investigative Genetic Genealogy

Devon is an Investigative Genetic Genealogist who has been providing professional genetic genealogy services to Canadian and US law enforcement since 2019. He began traditional genealogy research in 2005 and shifted to genetic genealogy in 2016, applying DNA-based methods to identify unknown relatives and resolve adoption cases. He now supports major investigations, using GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNA to identify crime-scene DNA contributors, with expertise in endogamous populations informed by research in Newfoundland.

Devon has assisted on over two dozen homicide, sexual assault, and unidentified human remains cases and is one of two investigative genetic genealogists in Canada to be the first testify in court about this work. He received the Calgary Chief of Police Award of Exceptional Recognition in November 2023. He regularly attends conferences, staying on the cutting edge of emerging technologies and sharing insights with law enforcement and forensic professionals.

Beverly Stevenson
Investigative Genetic Genealogist, Convergence Investigative Genetic Genealogy

Beverly has worked with law enforcement since 2019, applying investigative genetic genealogy to help identify crime scene DNA. A lifelong genealogist, she brings deep curiosity about people and a strong drive to solve complex family mysteries. Her professional casework has supported investigations in Alberta and Ontario, Canada, including homicides, sexual assaults, and unidentified human remains. She received the Calgary Chief of Police Award of Exceptional Recognition in November 2023. Beverly’s methods blend careful historical family research with DNA analysis, guided by ethical practices and rigorous attention to detail. Her goal is to provide clear, defensible findings that assist law enforcement investigations and help return names to the unidentified.

Abstract

Since the arrest of the Golden State Killer, investigative genetic genealogy has attracted significant public and scholarly attention. The number of cases solved using this method has steadily increased, contributing to its growing acceptance in criminal investigations. At the same time, investigative genetic genealogy has received serious criticism, particularly regarding its privacy implications.

The workflow of investigative genetic genealogy consists of five phases: case selection, DNA analysis, database search, genealogical research, and confirmatory STR testing. As the novelty of this investigative tool lies primarily in the use of genetic genealogy databases for investigative purposes, privacy debates have largely focused on this stage. To that end, scholars have examined issues such as the legitimacy of relying on user consent to utilize data held in these databases for investigative purposes, the implications of such consent for genetic relatives, and the risks of function creep. Legislative responses have largely mirrored this focus, primarily addressing privacy concerns arising from the database search phase. However, privacy concerns arise at every stage of the investigative genetic genealogy workflow, and even before it begins and after it concludes. Considering this, it should be emphasized that limiting regulatory and scholarly attention to a particular phase of the investigative genetic genealogy workflow risks not only leaving other privacy concerns attached to this technique unanswered but also overlooking its broader structural and systemic implications.

This talk, therefore, argues for a more holistic understanding of the privacy challenges posed by investigative genetic genealogy and calls for legislative responses that reflect this perspective to ensure the legitimacy of this novel investigative tool.

About the speaker

Taner Kuru is a PhD researcher at Tilburg Institute for Law, Technology and Society (TILT) of Tilburg University. His research focuses on the ethical and legal implications of investigative genetic genealogy. Before starting his doctoral studies, he interned at the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Institute (UNICRI) Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. He holds an Advanced LL.M. in Law and Digital Technologies from Leiden University, which he pursued as an awardee of the Jean Monnet Scholarship. His article titled “Genetic Data: The Achilles’ Heel of the GDPR?”, which is based on his master’s thesis, received the European Data Protection Law Review’s “Young Scholar Award”.

Abstract

Toronto, Canada is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, with residents originating from every continent. This diversity presents both unique challenges and opportunities for investigative genetic genealogy (IGG), particularly when unidentified individuals or suspects are found to have very recent European origins.

This presentation will explore how the Toronto Police Service IGG team has successfully applied IGG methodologies to identify individuals born outside of Canada, including cases involving European origins such as Switzerland, Italy, and Portugal. Using case examples, the 20-minute presentation will demonstrate how traditional genealogical research can be combined with DNA evidence to resolve complex cross-border identifications. The session will focus on practical problem-solving approaches including targeted social media outreach within specific cultural or diaspora communities, the investigative value of clothing or personal effects found with the deceased, and innovative approaches to cases involving uncommon or geographically distinctive surnames.

This presentation aims to illustrate how IGG can be successfully adapted beyond a North American-centric framework and highlights the importance of cultural, historical, and geographic context when working international cases. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how IGG can function effectively in diverse urban environments and how similar methodologies may be applied in international investigations.

About the speaker

Lauren Robilliard is an accredited investigative genetic genealogist specialising in the resolution of complex cases through the integration of advanced DNA analysis and traditional genealogical research. To date, she has contributed to the identification of 17 unidentified human remains cases and assisted in 14 criminal investigations while working for the Toronto Police Service, with several cases involving partnerships with other law enforcement agencies across Canada.

In addition to active casework, she is passionate about education and public outreach. She regularly presents at conferences, post-secondary institutions, and genealogical societies on the application of investigative genetic genealogy in Canada, with a focus on methodology, ethical considerations, and best practices in this rapidly evolving field. Her work emphasizes responsible, evidence-based approaches to IGG and its role in supporting both investigative outcomes and families seeking answers.

Co-authors: Dr Haley Omeasoo, Dr Catrina Whitley, Dr Abigail Fisher, Rita Simonetta, Samantha Hofland MA

Abstract

Advancing the ethical and effective use of forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) requires addressing persistent challenges in working with highly degraded DNA and with small or isolated populations. The Snow Molecular Anthropology Laboratory (SMAL), is pushing these boundaries through two ongoing initiatives: analysis of more than 100‑year‑old remains from the hot and humid Sugar Land 95 site in Texas, and the development of a tribally owned and operated genetic database for the Blackfeet Nation in Montana. These projects illustrate how FIGG methodologies can be adapted for contexts where both DNA preservation and population size introduce analytical and ethical complexities.

To meet these challenges, we employ several complementary strategies, including robust public outreach to increase the likelihood of locating relatives within public or community‑specific databases, strict exclusion of health‑related markers to maintain trust and respect participant expectations, and non‑destructive DNA extraction methods that align with cultural and descendant‑community values. Additionally, our ongoing work modeling kinship coefficients in small and isolated populations provides new insights into how population structure influences FIGG interpretation and casework confidence.

Together, these efforts demonstrate that FIGG can be implemented responsibly even under the most difficult scientific and ethical conditions. This talk will outline key lessons from these real‑world applications, ranging from community engagement frameworks to methodological considerations for degraded DNA and small‑population analyses, and will highlight the principles necessary for equitable, transparent, and globally applicable FIGG practice.

About the speaker

Dr Meradeth Snow is a professor of anthropology at the University of Montana, as well as the director of the Snow Molecular Anthropology Laboratory (SMAL). She specialises in degraded DNA with applications in forensics and archaeological contexts. Her work with FIGG has been primarily based on identification of individuals from marginalized populations, including from the African American Sugar Land 95 cemetery in Texas, and unknown members of the Blackfeet tribe in Montana. Her work prioritizes the ethical application of FIGG in order to ensure all individuals have the opportunity to benefit from this technology. She also is a member of the Advisory Committee for the International Symposium on Human Identification (ISHI). 

SPONSORED TALK

Abstract

As Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) evolves, agencies and laboratories must carefully evaluate available SNP testing options to determine the most appropriate strategy for each case. From targeted SNP panels to whole genome sequencing, methodological differences directly impact match resolution, genealogical reach, cost efficiency, and overall investigative outcomes—particularly when working with limited or degraded forensic samples.

This presentation will provide a strategic framework for selecting SNP testing approaches based on case variables rather than laboratory preference. Discussion will focus on practical considerations such as data density, mixture suitability, expected match strength, database compatibility, and investigative goals. Case examples will be included to illustrate real-world decision making and workflow implementation.

In addition, the presentation will address best practices for FIGG case file creation, including documentation, database uploads, threshold settings, genealogy progression, and preservation of analytical notes. Privacy considerations, including match contact protocols, law enforcement control of outreach, and maintaining defensible records that withstand legal and ethical scrutiny, will also be addressed. Attendees will leave with a concise decision making model for SNP test selection and clear guidance for responsible FIGG implementation.

About the speaker

Teresa Vreeland is Vice President of Forensic Genealogy at Bode Technology, where she leads the Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) program. With 20 years of forensic DNA experience, she integrates advanced SNP testing and genealogical research into ISO 17025–accredited laboratory workflows. Teresa has been instrumental in developing in-house FIGG capabilities that align innovation with quality standards and investigative needs.

She collaborates with law enforcement nationwide to implement defensible FIGG processes, from SNP profiling and database strategy to genealogical investigation and confirmatory testing, while advancing best practices in case documentation, privacy, and lab–investigator coordination.
A frequent speaker at forensic conferences, Teresa bridges scientific rigor with practical application, supporting the responsible and effective use of genetic genealogy in criminal investigations and unidentified human remains cases.