NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Capt. J. Tim Hull

(573) 526-6115

Q1072

January 17, 2007

EMPHASIS: Patrol’s Crime Laboratory Division's Work Applauded



Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to publicly acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of the employees within the Patrol’s Crime Laboratory Division. Prior to 2005, only DNA from individuals convicted of violent crimes were eligible for entry into Missouri’s Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). This allowed the samples to be compared to DNA samples from unsolved crimes. Legislation in 2005 required individuals convicted of any felony submit a DNA sample, which would then be entered into CODIS.



From January through December 2006, Patrol Crime Lab employees processed, analyzed, and entered 75,179 convicted offender DNA profiles into CODIS. Their dedication and hard work resulted in these samples being available for comparison to other DNA profiles within CODIS. The result was 716 “hits” during 2006. These hits translate into investigative information for law enforcement officers, providing new leads for previously unsolved cases.



“I am extremely proud of our Crime Lab employees,” said Colonel Keathley. “They are skilled professionals who help the Patrol achieve its mission of serving and protecting the citizens of this great state.”



The types of investigations assisted in 2006 due to the “all felons law” include: Homicide (9 percent); Sexual Assault (8 percent); Rape (14 percent); Assault (3 percent); Robbery (4 percent); Burglary (43 percent); Auto Theft (6 percent); Stealing (7 percent); Drugs (2 percent); and miscellaneous (4 percent).



“These hits result in offenders being associated with cold cases. They are being held responsible for the crimes they have committed against innocent victims,” continued Colonel Keathley. “When there is a hit within CODIS, that means someone’s DNA has been associated with evidence from a crime. Forensic science is important to solving crimes, as well as protecting the innocent. I commend the Patrol’s Crime Laboratory for a job well done.”