Advanced Topics in DNA
NEW METHODS TO SOLVE COLD CASES AND OTHER MAJOR CRIMES
Recent advances in forensic DNA testing include greater sensitivity, new methods for interpreting complex mixtures, specialized CODIS database search techniques, and other emerging tools. This class will examine these developments and how they can be applied when routine DNA analysis has not resolved a case. It will be especially useful for investigators revisiting cold cases to determine whether additional testing may be possible.
Topics Covered Will Include:
- Probabilistic genotyping software
- Forensic Genetic Genealogy
- Y-STR testing
- New STR chemistries
- Phenotyping/ancestry testing
- Case Studies
Facilitators: Danielle Hankinson has been a forensic scientist in the Biology/DNA discipline for over 20 years. She is currently the Quality Manager at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. She has previously worked at the Michigan State Police and the Virginia Department of Forensic Science. Danielle holds BS and MS degrees from Michigan State University. She has processed thousands of cases of bodily fluid identification and DNA analysis. Danielle is certified in Molecular Biology by the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) and is a past president of the ABC. She is also an active member and a past president of the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (MAFS), and has taught many classes to law enforcement, SANE personnel, college students and the general public.
Amanda Fazi is a senior DNA analyst for DNA Labs International. She has over thirteen years’ experience working as a forensic biologist and crime scene investigator, with previous experience at the Michigan State Police Northville Crime Lab and the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab. She has a BS in Biological Sciences from Wayne State University and a MS in Forensic Science from Michigan State University. She has processed thousands of cases for body fluid identification and DNA analysis and has testified as an expert witness in Michigan and several other states. She is an active member and research committee member of the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (MAFS) as well as a member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
Date/Times: Thursday, March 11, 2027, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Location: Grand Blanc Township Police Department, 5420 S. Saginaw Street, Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Cost: LEORTC Licensed Personnel – Prepaid
Non-Licensed Members – $65 per/person
All Others – $130 per/person
Click to REGISTER below:
https://form.123formbuilder.com/6888767/training-application-form
This training is registered as, “Agency Elected Continuing Professional Education (CPE).”
“This training has been registered with MCOLES for the use of PA 302 Law Enforcement Distribution funds.”