In the quest to solve cases of long-term missing persons, a recent academic paper offers invaluable insights. Titled "Public/family concerns for providing DNA in missing persons cases: Paper 2: The main concerns raised and implications for policing policy" [Kate Russell, Sally F. Kelty, Nathan Scudder] this article is the second instalment of a two-part series that explores the complexities surrounding the identification of unidentified human remains and the challenges of reuniting them with their families.
The paper illustrates the profound importance of resolving these cases, not just for the authorities but, more importantly, for the distraught families yearning for closure. However, the road to resolution is not without its obstacles, and one significant concern that emerges is the provision of DNA for investigative purposes.
The research engages in a qualitative analysis that captures the sentiments and concerns of both the public and families. Through the lens of four hypothetical long-term missing person scenarios, ten distinct themes emerge, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of these concerns.
These findings highlight the pressing need for increased public awareness about the role of DNA in such cases, the relevant legal framework, and the immense benefits that DNA analysis can bring to investigations. Moreover, the research offers potential policy options that could guide police practices, ensuring a more nuanced approach to different long-term missing person scenarios.
Kate Russell, Sally F. Kelty, Nathan Scudder,
Public/family concerns for providing DNA in missing persons cases: Paper 2: The main concerns raised and implications for policing policy,
Science & Justice,
Volume 63, Issue 6,
2023,
Pages 671-679