Forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG) is in the news again, most recently because of its relevance in the case of the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” anchor Savannah Guthrie. Sources report that after a failure of finding a match in the CODIS database, FIGG is being used to attempt to identify a mixed DNA profile found inside the home and not connected to Guthrie family members.

What are CODIS and FIGG? In today’s short post, I’ll provide a quick overview of these two acronyms and their application in DNA testing and analysis for criminal investigations. For further learning, you can read about FIGG or listen to DNA Clarity and Support podcast guest J.C. Kenney, an author who researched and incorporated FIGG into the story of fictional investigator Allie Cobb.

J.C. Kenney is the author a series of cozy mystery novels, one of which involves using DNA and genealogy to solve a murder cold case. You need not be a true crime fan or a DNA expert to learn from today's episode! The conversation with J.C. hones in on the highlights of DNA and crime investigation and is a great intro for those unfamiliar with investigative genetic genealogy, often shortened to IGG.