Genetic genealogists have a great responsibility to conduct themselves ethically in their work to preserve a system that relies on public participation to solve violent crimes. The chief genetic genealogist at Parabon NanoLabs, CeCe Moore, emphasizes the importance of privacy concerns in the use of investigative genetic genealogy (IGG). In cases where privacy violations occur, such as in the investigation of University of Idaho student murders suspect Bryan Kohberger, there is a risk of unwitting users providing clues that lead detectives to their own relatives unknowingly. Moore’s team at the private lab avoids such actions to ensure the continued use of IGG for future cases.
The FBI has faced scrutiny over its actions in accessing private databases to solve crimes, such as in the case of Bryan Kohberger. While the FBI defended its actions by pointing to legality and terms of service, Moore highlights the potential negative impact on public perception of the use of genetic genealogy testing. The FBI’s use of genetic databases without consent could dissuade members of the public from participating in genetic testing, as concerns about data privacy and potential misuse may deter individuals from contributing their information.
In the case of the University of Idaho student murders, investigative genetic genealogy played a crucial role in identifying Bryan Kohberger as a suspect. The presence of a DNA sample on a knife sheath found at the crime scene led investigators to use IGG to track down Kohberger, who was studying criminology just miles away from the crime scene. Without the use of genetic genealogy, law enforcement may have struggled to identify and apprehend a suspect, potentially leaving the case unsolved.
Despite concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of genetic databases by law enforcement, public support for the use of IGG in solving violent crimes remains strong, according to Moore. The majority of individuals surveyed expressed their support for using genetic genealogy to stop violent criminals, indicating a willingness to assist law enforcement in solving cases. However, the balance between the ethical use of genetic data and the need to solve crimes effectively remains a challenge for genetic genealogists and law enforcement agencies.
The ethical considerations surrounding the use of investigative genetic genealogy extend beyond the legal boundaries of companies’ terms of service. While law enforcement has the authority to access publicly available databases for investigative purposes, concerns persist about the potential infringement on individuals’ privacy and the impact on public trust in genetic genealogy testing. Striking a balance between solving crimes and protecting individuals’ genetic data remains a crucial aspect of the work conducted by genetic genealogists and law enforcement agencies.
Moving forward, the field of investigative genetic genealogy will continue to evolve, taking into account the implications for privacy, ethics, and public trust. With ongoing advancements and challenges in the use of genetic data to solve crimes, genetic genealogists like CeCe Moore will play a pivotal role in navigating the ethical complexities of their work. By maintaining a commitment to ethical standards and responsible practices, genetic genealogists can uphold the integrity of the system while working to bring justice to victims and their families through the use of genetic genealogy.
