The Basics of Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy

The 2018 arrest of Joseph D’Angelo, also known as the Golden State Killer, caused a huge stir in the genetic genealogy community. Since then, over 1000 cases involving suspect DNA or unidentified human remains have been resolved using the technique known as Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG). This presentation will cover the history of this new field, give an introduction to how this technique works, discuss ethical issues stemming from this field, and a brief review of educational opportunities for those who would like to learn more.

Jennifer Wiebe is a professional genealogist. She loves solving all the different kinds of puzzles that genealogical mysteries bring. She currently teaches genetic genealogy for the University of New Haven’s Forensic Genetic Genealogy graduate certificate program, which she graduated from in 2022. While at Barbara Rae-Venter’s Firebird Forensic Group, she helped identify Unidentified Human Remains and potential suspects of violent crimes. She is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists and a ProGen alumni, and has completed three genealogical institutes. With her career in education prior to becoming a genealogist, she enjoys educating others about genealogy through her blog, Jennealogie, and presenting at conferences. As a volunteer Search Angel, she's united adoptees with their biological families. One of her favourite places to visit is the Mount Royal Cemetery in her hometown of Montreal, Quebec.

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