As critics warn of genetic ‘surveillance’, RCMP explores use of DNA matching in criminal probes
While law enforcement’s use of genetic genealogy has been credited with advancing and solving cold cases, it’s also raising ethical questions about how police are taking advantage of the at-home DNA testing trend.
Investigative genetic genealogy — famous for its role in catching the Golden State Killer — involves scouring private genealogical companies’ databases for matches to identify a familial relationship or a likely suspect.
It piggybacks off the rise of private sector genealogical companies, used by people to explore their family heritage or determine their odds of contracting hereditary diseases.
The RCMP says it’s reviewing the legitimacy of using genetic genealogy to solve cases, but is still using the controversial DNA matching technique in the meantime.
