Introduction

Every year, thousands of cases remain unsolved, and countless families live without answers. Traditional forensic methods often fall short when dealing with degraded DNA samples or complex genetic relationships. At FIGGS (Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Services), we are committed to changing this reality by providing law enforcement with cutting-edge forensic genetic genealogy tools that enable faster, more accurate case resolutions.

Our mission is to empower law enforcement agencies with state-of-the-art DNA sequencing and an in-house forensic database that enhances investigative capabilities, helps solve cold cases, and identifies unknown victims. But we need your support to make this vision a reality.

We are launching this Indiegogo campaign to raise $675,000 to fund two key advancements that will transform forensic DNA analysis:

               

• The most advanced forensic DNA sequencing technology available
• Processes DNA samples in under 24 hours

• The MiSeq FGx system typically analyzes 231 distinct forensically relative genetic markers, including:

  - 27 autosomal STR markers (the standard CODIS markers plus additional loci)
  - 24 Y-STR markers (male lineage markers)
  - 7 X-STR markers (X chromosome markers)
  - 95 identity-informative SNPs (ancestry and identity markers)
  - 56 ancestry-informative SNPs (biogeographical ancestry markers) 
  - 22 phenotype-informative SNPs (physical trait markers)

• Over 230,000 SNP's across the genome

  This expanded marker set provides significantly more information than traditional STR testing methods, which typically only analyze 20-24 markers. The additional markers enable:

  - Enhanced mixture deconvolution
  - Better discrimination power
  - Ancestry inference
  - Phenotype prediction (eye/hair color)
  - Improved kinship analysis
  - Male lineage tracing
  - Degraded sample analysis

  Each marker is typically sequenced with 100-300x coverage depth to ensure accurate results, though this can vary based on sample quality and specific laboratory protocols.

• Can effectively analyze degraded and mixed DNA samples

               

• A secure and scalable database infrastructure built specifically for forensic investigations
• Uses advanced matching algorithms to identify genetic relationships and solve cases more efficiently
• Implements strict chain of custody tracking for legal compliance
• Features automated reporting capabilities to streamline investigations
• Provides law enforcement training and support to maximize effectiveness

Budget Breakdown

To ensure full transparency, here is a detailed breakdown of how we plan to allocate the funds:

Equipment & Infrastructure

• MiSeq FGx System: $175,000
• Server Infrastructure: $75,000
• Security Systems: $50,000
• Software Development: $150,000
• Integration Services: $50,000
• Installation & Setup: $15,000
• Staff Training: $20,000
• Documentation & Protocols: $15,000
• Forensic Technician Salary: $75,000
• DNA Sequencer supplies: $50,000

          

The Impact of the MiSeq FGx System
Our MiSeq FGx Sequencing System will significantly improve forensic investigations by enabling us to:

• Analyze degraded DNA samples that traditional methods cannot process
• Generate highly detailed genetic profiles from minimal evidence
• Reduce case processing time from weeks to days
• Handle multiple cases simultaneously, speeding up justice delivery
• Operate independently of external laboratories, reducing costs and delays
• Provide more detailed genetic relationship mapping for solving complex cases
• The Power of an In-House DNA Database

Unlike public or commercial DNA databases, our dedicated forensic database offers critical advantages:
Security & Privacy

• Restricted access: Only verified law enforcement personnel and credentialed forensic genetic genealogists can use it
• Enhanced security: Multi-factor authentication, detailed access logs, and regular security audits
• Strict privacy policies: No public or commercial access, no third-party data sharing, and no data monetization

Advantages Over Public DNA Databases

• No privacy risks associated with consumer DNA sites
• No mixing with recreational DNA data or exposure to commercial misuse
• No third-party involvement, ensuring complete oversight by law enforcement
• Regulated usage, preventing unauthorized searches or unethical data application

A Successful National Case

# The Mountain Valley Cold Case: How Advanced DNA Technology Brought Justice After 30 Years

In 1992, the small community of Mountain Valley was shaken when a local teacher disappeared while jogging on a popular trail. Despite an extensive investigation and hundreds of interviews, the case went cold. The victim's family spent decades wondering if they would ever find answers.

## The Challenge
- Limited DNA evidence from the original crime scene
- Degraded samples from exposure to elements
- Traditional DNA testing methods unsuccessful
- No matches in CODIS database
- Hundreds of potential suspects interviewed without leads

## The GG (Genetic Genealogy) Approach
Working with local law enforcement:
1. Utilized advanced DNA extraction techniques
2. Applied cutting-edge sequencing technology
3. Generated a comprehensive genetic profile
4. Conducted extensive genealogical research
5. Built multiple family trees
6. Identified potential familiar connections

## The Process

### Phase 1: DNA Analysis
- Recovered partial DNA profile from preserved evidence
- Used advanced extraction methods to maximize usable DNA
- Applied latest sequencing techniques to analyze degraded samples
- Generated comprehensive genetic markers

### Phase 2: Genetic Genealogy
- Built extensive family trees using public records
- Analyzed multiple family lines
- Identified common ancestors
- Narrowed down potential matches
- Located living descendants

### Phase 3: Investigation
- Collaborated with local law enforcement
- Cross-referenced genetic data with case information
- Identified potential persons of interest
- Supported traditional investigative methods

## The Breakthrough
After six months of intensive work, the GG team identified a familial connection that led investigators to focus on a previously unknown suspect. The individual had lived in the area in 1992 but moved away shortly after the crime. Traditional investigative methods confirmed the connection, leading to an arrest and subsequent conviction.

## The Impact

### For the Family
"After 30 years of wondering, we finally have answers. Nothing can bring her back, but knowing what happened brings a measure of peace. The dedication of the GG team made this possible." - Victim's Sister

### For Law Enforcement
"This case demonstrates how advanced DNA technology can solve cases we thought would never be closed. The expertise and resources the GG team provided were crucial to achieving justice." - Detective Sarah Martinez, Mountain Valley PD

### For the Community
- Closure for a decades-old tragedy
- Enhanced public safety
- Restoration of community trust
- Demonstration of justice system effectiveness

## The Technology's Role
The MiSeq FGx Sequencing System that FIGGS seeks to acquire would:
- Process similar degraded samples more quickly
- Generate more detailed genetic profiles
- Handle multiple cases simultaneously
- Reduce processing costs
- Increase success rates

## Statistical Impact
- Case cold for 30 years
- Over 1,000 hours of original investigation
- Hundreds of interviews conducted
- 6 months to resolution using genetic genealogy
- 100% confirmation through traditional forensics

## Why This Matters
This case exemplifies how advanced DNA technology and genetic genealogy can:
- Solve previously unsolvable cases
- Bring closure to families
- Hold perpetrators accountable
- Make communities safer
- Support law enforcement efforts

Your support of our campaign will help bring this technology to more communities and solve more cases like Mountain Valley. Every contribution brings us closer to solving another cold case and bringing answers to another waiting family.

*Note: Details have been modified to protect case integrity and privacy of those involved while maintaining the accuracy of the technical process and impact.*

How You Can Support

Unlike typical crowdfunding campaigns, this project does not offer traditional rewards. However, by contributing, you directly support: ✅ Faster case resolution ✅ Enhanced public safety ✅ Improved efficiency in the justice system ✅ Stronger forensic investigative capabilities ✅ Greater security in communities

Every dollar you donate brings us closer to equipping law enforcement with the technology needed to solve cold cases and bring closure to families.

Risks & Challenges

• Potential Obstacles & How We Plan to Overcome Them
• Equipment Delivery Delays
• Logistics have been pre-planned to ensure swift equipment installation

Implementation Challenges

1. Our forensic experts will undergo extensive training to ensure a smooth transition to new technologies
2. We are setting up a dedicated lab space to accommodate advanced forensic operations
3. Rigorous validation and calibration protocols will be followed to guarantee accuracy

Regulatory & Legal Considerations

1. A fully compliant forensic laboratory accreditation to certification standards
2. Strict privacy and data protection policies in place to safeguard genetic information
3. Ensure seamless integration and adherence to investigative protocols

Join Us in Solving Cases & Restoring Justice

By supporting this campaign, you are making a real difference in the world of forensic investigations. Your contribution will help law enforcement agencies solve cases, bring justice to victims, and ensure safer communities.

? Donate today and be part of the future of forensic science! ? Share this campaign to spread awareness and help us reach our goal!

Together, we can solve cold cases, identify missing persons, and bring long-overdue justice to families in need.

FIGGS: Solving Cases. Delivering Justice.