Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG): Solving Cold Cases

 

By Dr. Lorra Corrales, Forensic Perspectives Contributor

Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) has revolutionized the field of criminal investigations, offering new avenues to solve cold cases that have long eluded traditional methods. By combining DNA analysis with genealogical research, FIGG enables law enforcement to identify suspects and victims by tracing familial connections through public genetic databases. This article explores the principles of FIGG, its application in solving cold cases, notable case studies, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.

Principles of Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy

FIGG involves analyzing DNA samples from crime scenes and comparing them to profiles in public genetic databases to identify potential relatives of unknown suspects or victims. By constructing family trees and narrowing down possible individuals, investigators can pinpoint identities that were previously unattainable. This method has proven particularly effective in cases where traditional investigative techniques have failed. 

Notable Cold Cases Solved Using FIGG

1. The Case of Anne Pham (1982)

In 1982, 5-year-old Anne Pham disappeared while walking to her kindergarten class in Seaside, California. Her body was discovered two days later at the Fort Ord Army base, but the case remained unsolved for decades. In 2020, DNA evidence was retested using FIGG, leading to the identification and conviction of Robert John Lanoue, a neighbor with a history of sexual offenses.

2. The Murder of Nancy Anderson (1972)

Nineteen-year-old Nancy Anderson was murdered in her Honolulu apartment in 1972. Despite extensive investigations, the case went cold for nearly 50 years. In 2019, forensic genealogist CeCe Moore utilized FIGG to identify Tudor Chirila as a suspect. Chirila was arrested in 2021 but died in 2023 while awaiting trial, bringing closure to Anderson's family.

3. The Identification of "Buckskin Girl" (1981)

In 1981, the body of a young woman, nicknamed "Buckskin Girl" due to her distinctive coat, was found in a ditch in Troy, Ohio. The case remained unsolved for 37 years until FIGG identified her as Marcia Lenore Sossoman (King) from Arkansas, providing closure to her family.

4. The Murder of Terri McAdams (1985)

Terri McAdams was brutally raped and murdered on Valentine's Day 1985 in Arlington, Texas. After nearly 40 years, FIGG identified her killer as Bernard Sharp, who had committed a double murder-suicide months after McAdams' death. This breakthrough provided long-awaited answers to McAdams' family.

5. The Identification of Judy Rodriguez (1991)

Judy Rodriguez went missing in January 1991, and her body was discovered in Queens, New York, later that year. Advanced DNA testing and FIGG techniques identified her remains 33 years later, bringing closure to her family and highlighting the power of FIGG in solving long-standing cases.

Ethical Considerations and Future Directions

While FIGG has proven instrumental in solving cold cases, it raises ethical concerns regarding privacy and consent. The use of public genetic databases by law enforcement without explicit consent from individuals poses questions about genetic privacy. Balancing the benefits of solving crimes with the rights of individuals is an ongoing debate. As FIGG continues to evolve, establishing clear guidelines and ethical standards will be crucial to ensure its responsible use. 

Conclusion

Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy has transformed the landscape of criminal investigations, breathing new life into cold cases and providing closure to families affected by unsolved crimes. By leveraging genetic data and genealogical research, FIGG offers a powerful tool for law enforcement. However, its application must be balanced with ethical considerations to protect individual privacy rights. As technology advances, FIGG is poised to play an increasingly significant role in the pursuit of justice.