FORENSIC DNA FROM CRIME SCENE TO COURT
Law enforcement's cold case DNA solution
IMF is the only accredited lab offering next generation DNA sequencing (for forensic genetic genealogy). We also partner with labs like Othram and Astrea when agencies want their unique services but need to work through an accredited organization (IMF). As an accredited forensic lab, IMF can take your cold case DNA from start to finish: traditional testing, advanced sequencing, genetic genealogy, identity confirmation and court testimony.
We're also the only nonprofit lab offering these services. It not only keeps prices lower, but private donors get a tax deduction and added transparency.
Traditional DNA testing (CODIS profiles, one-to-one comparisons, sexual assault kits)
For many cases, especially when sample size or quality is not a concern, traditional DNA testing is a good first step. A CODIS hit on a suspect or close relative may resolve the case. It's also a logical place to start with many sexual assault kits.
Next Generation Sequencing (genetic genealogy research, identifying suspects, confirmation of identity)
As confirmed by the FBI, Illumina's MiSeq FGx from Verogen can generate DNA profiles from the smallest and most degraded samples - perfect for cold cases! Profiles upload to public database GEDmatch PRO to identify possible suspects or victims.
-0001.png/:/cr=t:0%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:100%25/rs=w:1209,h:605,cg:true)
Genetic Genealogy DNA profiles
We're the first lab to validate the Kintelligence genetic genealogy kits created by Verogen for its GEDmatch.com database. This advanced technology can extract DNA from a wider range of sources and without collecting the non-forensic (medical) data that is prohibited in some jurisdictions. We can also offer traditional whole-genome sequencing.
Phenotyping (appearance predictions)
For no additional cost, IMF can estimate a subject's appearance, such as race, eye color, and hair color.
MVac
The MVAC Genomic System can extract up to 12 times the amount of forensic DNA from difficult-to-access materials or locations, according to FBI studies. IMF's MVAC can help with challenging sources such as shell casings, jewelry, etc.
Genetic genealogy
IMF's genealogy division is led by the most prominent forensic genealogist in the world, Dr. Colleen Fitzpatrick. We can also ease your budget by unleashing our vetted volunteer genealogists, who already have proven success. Want to work through an outside company but need private donations? Donations to IMF are tax deductible and can be used to arrange those services.
Bone and teeth
Intermountain Forensics is one of the first labs in the U.S. to validate the Tissuelyser II, state of the art design from Qiagen for extracting usable DNA from bone and teeth. It's the most advanced - and effective - DNA extraction from bone in the country.
Official confirmation of suspect identity
Once a potential suspect is identified, IMF is court-qualified to confirm identity for legal purposes.
Court testimony
IMF Lab Director Dan Hellwig and analyst Derek Cutler have testified throughout the U.S. We can extract your DNA, identify your suspect, and testify. Also available for defense / innocence consultations.
Probabilistic genotyping
IMF is the first lab in the U.S. to have access to new probabilistic genotyping for analysis of next generation sequencing. Another game changer! We also have STRmix for traditional DNA analysis.
-0001.png/:/cr=t:0%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:100%25/rs=w:1209,h:605,cg:true)
Speakers
Need a speaker for your civic, law enforcement, school, or church group, senior center, or other organization? Dan Hellwig has fascinating stories of solving murders with DNA. Our CEO, a co-founder of the Cold Case Coalition, is a frequent speaker on true crime and cold cases
OUR SCIENTISTS
Dan Hellwig, Lab Director
Dan Hellwig, Lab Director
Dan Hellwig, Lab Director
Dan holds an M.S. in Forensic Science and is a 17-year veteran of both public and private crime forensic DNA laboratories. He has served as a DNA analyst, technical leader and in executive management of Forensic DNA laboratories over that time. He has provided training to hundreds of Forensic DNA labs and conferences on a variety of dif
Dan holds an M.S. in Forensic Science and is a 17-year veteran of both public and private crime forensic DNA laboratories. He has served as a DNA analyst, technical leader and in executive management of Forensic DNA laboratories over that time. He has provided training to hundreds of Forensic DNA labs and conferences on a variety of different topics. Armed with a black belt certification in Lean/Six Sigma process improvement and extensive experience in both quality and operational leadership, he provides executive direction and oversees the quality system of the Intermountain Forensics laboratory. .
Derek Cutler, Analyst
Dan Hellwig, Lab Director
Dan Hellwig, Lab Director
Derek brings nearly 9 years of forensic DNA experience to Intermountain Forensics, working at a large private lab before joining IMF. He has a Lean/Six Sigma green belt and boasts an amazingly efficient and quality driven interpretation, analysis and review process that he has honed over the years. This has allowed him to author over 3000
Derek brings nearly 9 years of forensic DNA experience to Intermountain Forensics, working at a large private lab before joining IMF. He has a Lean/Six Sigma green belt and boasts an amazingly efficient and quality driven interpretation, analysis and review process that he has honed over the years. This has allowed him to author over 3000 Forensic DNA laboratory reports and testify in cases more than 40 times from Hawaii to Alaska and Georgia to Michigan. Derek's approach to Forensic DNA Analysis and Review will be a staple of the laboratory, maximizing our quality and efficiency.
Alyssa McElreath, Lab Manager
Elena Rojas, Forensic Molecular Biologist
Elena Rojas, Forensic Molecular Biologist
Alyssa has 14 years of experience in forensics and investigations. She began working in the courts which soon led to working for law enforcement as a certified crime scene investigator. She received the Department Distinguished Service Medal twice for her contributions on multiple major cases. She developed a passion for DNA and its place
Alyssa has 14 years of experience in forensics and investigations. She began working in the courts which soon led to working for law enforcement as a certified crime scene investigator. She received the Department Distinguished Service Medal twice for her contributions on multiple major cases. She developed a passion for DNA and its place in solving crimes. Alyssa has expanded her expertise in roles as a Forensic Serologist, case consultant and private business owner. She brings her case knowledge and extensive experience to assist in case consultation, training, and wet lab case processing.
Elena Rojas, Forensic Molecular Biologist
Elena Rojas, Forensic Molecular Biologist
Elena Rojas, Forensic Molecular Biologist
Elena has nearly six years of forensic experience, having held positions as a Forensic Serologist, Forensic Evidence Technician, and Forensic Account Manager at a large private lab before joining Intermountain Forensics. Among other things, Elena has certifications in Collecting DNA at Crime Scenes, DNA for Forensic Analysts, and Response
Elena has nearly six years of forensic experience, having held positions as a Forensic Serologist, Forensic Evidence Technician, and Forensic Account Manager at a large private lab before joining Intermountain Forensics. Among other things, Elena has certifications in Collecting DNA at Crime Scenes, DNA for Forensic Analysts, and Response and Understanding Death Investigations. Previously she worked as a paralegal for 8 years, and is a licensed private investigator.