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Author: Yujiemi Chisholm

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Highlights

Boston Police launch website seeking public assistance to reignite unsolved homicide investigations dating back to 1963

In a bold step to advance justice for victims and families impacted by decades‑old homicides, the Boston Police Department has launched a comprehensive Unsolved Homicide website spotlighting cases dating back to 1963. The initiative represents an innovative, community‑centered strategy to generate new investigative leads and breathe new life into cases that have long remained unresolved. By making case information publicly accessible, the platform leverages transparency and technology to expand the investigative reach beyond traditional methods. The site features concise case summaries, victim photographs when available, and clear, direct pathways for the public to submit tips—empowering community members to play an active role in the pursuit of justice. Several of the cases highlighted on the website are being actively worked with support from the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA (COLD) Program, which provides critical resources to help agencies revisit cold cases using modern forensic tools and investigative strategies. By pairing public engagement with DNA‑driven cold case initiatives, the department is strengthening its ability to uncover new evidence and advance stalled investigations. This forward‑looking approach demonstrates how law enforcement agencies can maximize the impact of federal funding by combining technology, transparency, and community trust. Through this initiative, the Boston Police Department is not only revitalizing cold case investigations but also reaffirming its long‑term commitment to accountability, innovation, and bringing long‑awaited resolution to victims’ families and the broader community. To view the Unsolved Homicide website, visit: https://police.boston.gov/homicide-unit/.
October 2025
Forensics TTA

CODIS in Action: Capabilities, Challenges, and Casework Strategies Webinar

Facilitated by the Forensics TTA Team, this webinar features guest speaker Amanda Overman from the North Carolina State Crime Laboratory. The presenter provides an overview of how the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) database functions, including its capabilities, limitations, and how recent advancements are shaping forensic investigations. The presenter shares practical strategies, legal considerations, and ways to maximize the utility of CODIS hits to support investigations. Whether you’re new to CODIS or looking to refine your expertise, this webinar provides actionable insights that can be applied to further support case resolutions and highlights how CODIS is both a powerful forensic science and investigation tool.
October 2025
Forensics TTA

FY2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity Webinar – Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence (Postconviction) Program

This webinar, presented by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), features an overview of the FY2025 Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence (Postconviction) Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). As part of this presentation, BJA discusses the various elements of the Postconviction NOFO, including eligibility and requirements for submitting an application.
September 2025
Forensics TTA

FY2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity Webinar – Competitive DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program

This webinar, presented by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), features an overview of the FY2025 Competitive DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). As part of this presentation, BJA discusses the various elements of the Competitive CEBR NOFO, including eligibility and requirements for submitting an application.
September 2025
Forensics TTA

Forensic Services for Medical Examiner and Coroner Offices Webinar Series – Webinar #1: Identification Resources

Facilitated by the Forensics TTA Team, this webinar features guest speakers Melanie Rouse and Dr. Laura C. Fulginiti of the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner and Rob Glassmire of the Garfield County Coroner’s Office. The presenters highlight the various ways medical examiner/coroner (ME/C) offices of various sizes access identification services and specialists – including benefits and limitations of each. The presenters discuss the use of fingerprints, anthropology, odontology, and DNA, providing tips on how to best work with these different specialists across their capabilities and how to get the full benefits of their services. This is the first session in a three-part series that provides a high-level overview of ancillary services that ME/C offices may interact with to investigate cases, focusing especially on more unusual cases.
September 2025
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department

Sexual Assault Suspect Arrested and Charged in 32-year-old Cold Case

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Sexual Assault Cold Case Detectives have arrested 55-year-old Dulaine Lotharp in connection with two sexual assaults committed in 1993 and 1994, bringing resolution to a 32-year-old cold case. The first assault occurred on July 22, 1993, when a woman reported being attacked by an unknown suspect in the Providence Division. Over a year later, on August 25, 1994, another woman was similarly assaulted while walking along a wooded path in the same division. Sexual assault kits were collected in both cases. Although detectives investigated diligently at the time, the limitations of early DNA technology prevented a suspect from being identified. Years later, detectives revisited the case and submitted the preserved DNA samples for retesting using funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program and the New York County District Attorney’s Office (DANY). This testing ultimately identified Lotharp as the suspect in both assaults. He was taken into custody on August 30, 2025, and charged with three counts of First-Degree Rape, two counts of First-Degree Kidnapping, Common Law Robbery, and Communicating Threats.
September 2025
Forensics TTA

Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner (ME/C) System Program Discussion Forum – Computed Tomography (CT) Machines and Casework

Facilitated by the Forensics TTA Team, this Discussion Forum Session, Computed Tomography (CT) Machines and Casework, features guest speaker Dr. Lauren Edelman from the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office who provides an overview of the implementation and use of CT machines in medical examiner/coroner offices. The presenter discusses the “basics” of CT use, policies and guidelines for CT machines, radiation safety, obtaining a new machine and integrating it into practice, and more.
August 2025