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Author: Yujiemi Chisholm
Legal Document Repository

Maryland Criminal Procedure – Forensic Genetic Genealogical DNA Analysis and Search – Applicability for Deceased and Missing Individuals

A comprehensive statute governing the application of Forensic Genetic Genealogical DNA Analysis and Search (FGGS) enacted by the Maryland General Assembly and set forth in Title 17 of the Criminal Procedure Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The original statute was enacted and went into effect on October 1, 2021. An amendment (effective October 1, 2024) to the law states that its provisions do not apply to the use of FGGS to identify unidentified human remains.
October 2021
Investigative Stage - Case

State of Maryland v. Brandon Biagas – Case Documents

These case documents pertain to the 2017 Maryland homicide case, State of Maryland v. Brandon Biagas, and collectively outline the legal basis for obtaining biological samples from the suspect, the genealogical investigative methods used, and the formal allegations supporting the criminal charges. The materials include: (1) a search warrant authorizing the collection of biological samples from the suspect for forensic testing, including samples designated for Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG) analysis; (2) a memorandum outlining the family tree build out process conducted during the FGG investigation; and (3) an application for a statement of charges.
November 2020
Legal Document Repository

State of Washington v. Terrence Miller – Case Documents

These case documents pertain to the 1972 Washington murder-sexual offense case, State of Washington v. Terrence Miller, and collectively outline the evidentiary disputes central to the case, the parties’ competing positions on the admissibility and reliability of historical forensic evidence, and the investigative basis for the long-delayed charges. The materials include: (1) the prosecution’s response to multiple evidentiary issues raised by the defense; (2) the defense’s trial brief and motions in limine; (3) the defense’s motion to exclude evidence; and (4) the prosecution’s charging affidavit.
October 2020
National Institute of Justice

Report to Congress: Needs Assessment of Forensic Laboratories and Medical Examiner/Coroner Offices

This report, which was mandated by The Justice for All Reauthorization Act of 2016, details the results of a national needs assessment of forensic science service providers conducted in 2017 and 2018. The needs assessment focused on services provided by forensic laboratories, medical examiner and coroner offices, and other forensic science service providers. As forensic analyses have expanded and become more sensitive, and as practitioners have established more evidence-based policies and capabilities, the broad demand for forensics has grown. Forensic laboratories and medical examiner and coroner offices are constantly working to address the needs of the field, balancing operational priorities to meet stakeholder requests while introducing innovative solutions to solve emerging criminal justice questions. This needs assessment compiled demonstrative evidence of how the field is adapting to advancements in technology, the volume and types of forensic evidence, and the evolving needs of the justice system [Description provided by the NIJ website].
December 2019