Nationwide Study on Forensic Genetic Analyses in Criminal Cases in Denmark
Organized by: International Forensic Scientist Awards
Website: forensicscientist.org
14th Edition of Forensic Scientist Awards 26-27 September 2025 | Mumbai, India
Introduction
Forensic genetics has become one of the most powerful tools in modern criminal investigations. From identifying suspects to exonerating the innocent, DNA evidence plays a crucial role in strengthening justice systems. A recent nationwide study in Denmark provides valuable insights into how forensic DNA analyses are applied in real criminal cases, highlighting both achievements and challenges.
Background
Traditionally, forensic genetics research has focused on three main areas:
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Increasing the sensitivity of DNA analyses.
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Improving the interpretation of mixed DNA profiles.
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Expanding the use of forensic DNA intelligence methods.
This Danish study set out to evaluate the relevance of these focus areas using real-world data collected from thousands of criminal cases.
Study Overview
The retrospective analysis primarily covers the years 2016–2022, with supplementary data from 2023–2024. On average, about 36,605 samples were received each year:
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66% from high-volume crimes (e.g., burglaries, thefts).
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34% from violent crimes (e.g., assaults, homicides).
Key Findings
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Sample Suitability
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Nearly 50% of samples were unsuitable for standard PCR-CE analyses because of poor DNA quality or quantity.
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Of the usable samples, 85% produced full DNA profiles across all loci.
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DNA Matches
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A DNA match was obtained in 40% of reported profiles, linking evidence to suspects, victims, or records in the Danish National DNA Database.
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Increased Sensitivity (2023 Update)
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In 2023, the input DNA threshold was lowered from 200 pg to 100 pg.
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This resulted in an immediate rise in reported profiles from 50% to 59%, underscoring the importance of continuously refining laboratory protocols.
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Mixture Profiles
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Approximately two-thirds of all profiles were mixtures, which remain challenging to interpret.
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This emphasizes the need for ongoing research in mixture deconvolution and innovative computational tools.
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Unmatched Profiles – Opportunities for DNA Intelligence
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Across the study period, nearly 8,000 single-source violent crime profiles did not match any known individual.
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These represent potential candidates for advanced forensic DNA intelligence techniques, such as:
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Physical trait prediction (hair, eye, skin color)
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Age estimation
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Biogeographic ancestry inference
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Familial searching
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Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG)
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Conclusion
This nationwide study underscores the critical role of forensic genetics in criminal investigations in Denmark. While DNA analysis already contributes significantly to solving crimes, there is vast potential for improvement through more sensitive techniques, better mixture interpretation, and the use of next-generation forensic DNA intelligence methods.
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