National Technology Validation and Implementation Collaborative (NTVIC) policies and procedures for Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG)

Abstract

In 2022, the National Technology Validation and Implementation Collaborative (NTVIC) was established. Its mission is to collaborate across the US on validation, method development, and implementation. The NTVIC is comprised of 13 federal, state and local government crime laboratory leaders, joined by university researchers, and private technology and research companies. One of the NTVIC's first initiatives was to generate this draft policy document. This document provides guidelines and considerations for crime laboratories and investigative agencies exploring the establishment of a forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) program. While each jurisdiction is responsible for its own program policy, sharing minimum standards and best practices to optimize resources, promote technology implementation and elevate quality is a goal of the NTVIC.