Thinking About Using Rapid DNA? Considerations for Law Enforcement Leaders

Sunday, October 19, 2025

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM MT

Location: Mile High Ballroom 2B/3B, Colorado Convention Center

One of the most transformative advancements in forensic science in recent years is the emergence of Rapid DNA technology, which has significantly enhanced investigative capabilities. This expert panel, composed of members from the IACP Forensics Committee, will explore its critical applications, including expediting suspect identification at booking stations through immediate database comparisons, generating investigative leads from crime scene evidence, and identifying human remains in mass disaster scenarios. Panelists will also provide insights into key considerations for law enforcement leaders, such as equipment procurement, appropriate case applications, coordination with laboratories, integration with the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), and lessons learned from agency implementation.

Submitter and Speaker(s)

John Grassel, M.S.

Chair, IACP Forensics Committee/Senior Forensics Manager
RTI International
Johns Island, South Carolina, United States

Handouts

Speaker(s)

Michael Brown

Chief of Police
Salt Lake City Police Department
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Michael Garvey, Ph.D.

Executive Director
Philadelphia Police Department
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Jeremy Triplett

Laboratory Director
Kentucky State Police
Frankfort, Kentucky, United States