IGG Guidelines and Best Practices
Last updated May 24, 2024
The Investigative Genetic Genealogy Accreditation Board (“IGGAB” or the “Board”) is an independent, non-profit organization formed to develop standards of practice and requirements for accreditation in the field of Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG).
The purpose of these Standards is to provide for competence and ethical practice in the field of Investigative Genetic Genealogy (“IGG”). These Standards address a variety of concerns including issues of data privacy, public and Investigating Agency trust, and practitioner competency, ethics, and accountability.
In 2022, the NTVIC was established. Its mission is to collaborate across the US on validation, method development, and implementation. The NTVIC is comprised of 13 federal, state and local government crime laboratory leaders, joined by university researchers, and private technology and research companies.
Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Is NOT available at the New York State Police (NYSP) Crime Lab, however vendors approved by the New York State Department of Health are capable of developing the DNA profiles required to conduct genealogical searches.
Genealogical searches are NOT funded by NYSP, therefore any costs incurred must be borne by the investigating and/or prosecutorial agencies.
The purpose of this interim policy is to promote the reasoned exercise of investigative, scientific, and prosecutorial discretion in cases that involve forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis and searching. It provides guidance to Department agencies when formulating a thoughtful and collaborative approach to important interdisciplinary decisions in cases that utilize this investigative technique. Collaboration between investigators, laboratory personnel, and prosecutors is important because the decision to pursue FGGS may affect privacy interests, the consumption of forensic samples, and law enforcement’s ability to solve violent crime.
This overview describes the technique known as investigative genetic genealogy1 and distinguishes it from the investigative use of law enforcement DNA databases, such as those in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). The overview also identifies issues for agencies considering the use of investigative genetic genealogy in their investigations.
