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When a person was reported missing, their families could submit a toothbrush or a hairbrush to the investigators. They could then extract DNA from the source and submit it to a database, similar to the NCIC. When human remains were found, and there was no immediate identification, the same process could be done. Both sets of DNA would be in the same computer, and a check could be run to see if any of the DNA matched. Although that would help so much with those people who were properly reported missing, I have my concerns with those who were not. Many people are not reported missing, and there are some that are reported missing by acquaintances that would not have access to their personal belongings.

Maybe the answer to that, and the way to resolve future cases will involve something as simple as keeping a DNA sample when a child is born. Much like the way a hospital keeps birth certificate records of all the children born, they could keep a simple DNA profile on file as well. Eventually, all of the profiles could be added to a database for future use. There could potentially be on record, genetic samples of every person born in the country.

As we work toward more practical and faster ways of identification, the possibilities are endless. The future for forensics and DNA profiling is wide open. One day, dental records and fingerprints will be a thing of the past

Author: Dana Gonzalez