FROM ROOTS TO JUSTICE: HOW GENETIC GENEALOGY IS SOLVING COLD CASE (20) Zoom
Thursdays, 1:30-3pm, Jan 29, Feb 5, 12, 19, 26, March 5
How can distant cousins, public DNA databases, and historical records help solve decades-old crimes? This six-week course explores the emerging and fascinating field of forensic genetic genealogy—where DNA science meets traditional genealogy and true crime investigation. Participants will learn how investigators identify unknown individuals and criminal suspects using autosomal DNA, family trees, and documentary research. Through well-known and lesser-known case studies, we will examine successes, ethical debates, legal considerations, and the limits of this powerful tool. No science background required. This course is designed for intellectually curious adults interested in genealogy, criminal justice, and modern investigative techniques.
Week 1: Origins of Forensic Genetic Genealogy & the Rise of True Crime - The Golden State Killer
Week 2: Understanding DNA Evidence Through Real Crimes - Bear Brook Murders
Week 3: Building Family Trees to Identify Suspects and Victims - Buckskin Girl (Marcia King)
Week 4: Solving Cold Cases & Identifying the Unnamed Dead - The Boy in the Box (Joseph Augustus Zarelli)
Week 5: Ethics, Privacy, and Controversy in True Crime Genealogy - Somerton Man
Week 6: Where True Crime and Genetic Genealogy Are Headed
Case Analysis: Participant-guided review of a recent or unresolved forensic genealogy case
Text: Suggested reading (Not required): Moore, CeCe. Investigative Genetic Genealogy: The Power of DNA for Solving Cold and Ramsey, Jerry, & Jennifer Noble. Forensic Genealogy.
Leader: Heidi Gross, MBA, has been a family historian since 2007. Heidi began teaching an introductory genealogy course in 2010 and established her own professional genealogy company in 2016. Forge Genealogy Associates, formerly Ancestry Investigation, provides genealogical research services, courses, and webinars. Heidi is currently a part-time faculty member at Vermont State University, Castleton.