Sample Case Priorty Checklist

• Identify potential cases.
  • Identify any statute of limitation issues (consult with prosecutors).
  • Define case categories according to solvability factors.
• Prioritize cases (consider solvability factors).
• Locate and review the case file; obtain evidence logs and other documentation such as laboratory and autopsy reports.
• Locate previous forensic testing reports and location of previously tested evidence.For example—
  • Blood previously ABO typed.
  • Hair analyzed microscopically.
  • Fingerprint evidence.
• Locate crime scene evidence containing biological material.
• Evaluate the case and evidence for potential probative DNA. Be sure to—
  • Consider all evidentiary possibilities.
  • Take appropriate precautions against contamination.
• In consultation with the laboratory and prosecutors, submit appropriate (probative) evidence to the laboratory for testing.
• Continue investigative protocol. If needed, obtain reference samples from suspects—
  • Voluntarily using a consent form.
  • By using a previously obtained sample (e.g., if a reference sample was used for standard serological testing).
• Identify witness issues—
  • Legal availability.
  • Willingness to proceed.
  • Location.
• If a profile does not match suspect profiles, follow agency procedures for submitting the evidence profile to CODIS.
• If no offender match occurs in cases in which statutes of limitation are an issue, prepare a John Doe warrant.