Male DNA Screening

Semen analysis has consistently been one of the most requested services the forensic biology section receives. The evidence related to these requests is typically sexual assault collection kits involving female victims. The traditional analysis is time consuming and in some cases requires a scientist several days to complete just one case. Due to the volume of requests and analysis time, historically sexual assault kits are a large part of this section’s backlog. To improve the backlog situation and turnaround time, a procedure was implemented in 2006, allowing high-throughput, quality testing of sexual assault kits. This procedure tests for the presence of male (Y) DNA. The statements on these reports only indicate the presence or absence of male (Y) DNA. The results of this testing do not produce a ‘DNA profile’ for comparison purposes. Since this testing is for male (Y) DNA, the traditional method will be retained for use on cases involving male victims.