Detectives use high-tech database to nab crooks
Computer program connects offenders to crime through DNA samples
By Eliav Appelbaum eliav@theacorn.com

A relatively new system is helping put criminals behind bars.

The computer system CODIS, which stands for Combined DNA Index System, has aided 102 criminal investigations by the Ventura County Sheriff's Department since March 7, 2002. There have been 49 CODIS hits this year alone.

CODIS connects offenders to crimes through DNA samples stored in a database at the county, state and national levels. In some cases, the system links crimes originally thought to be unrelated. Even if there's no match, evidence collected on the site of the crime can be stored and used in the future.

"The database is bigger than it's ever been," said Capt. Jerry Hernandez. "Since there are more people on it, it's natural we should start getting more hits on potential suspects in crimes."

There are 399 entries in Ventura County, according to Suzette Sanders, who is in charge of CODIS operations for the Forensics Sciences Laboratory at the sheriff's department. There are just under a million entries in California and over 4 million nationwide.

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a chemical that contains the blueprint of all living organisms and gives instructions for the cells on how to grow and develop. DNA determines hair, eye color and blood type, among many things.

"The DNA samples are very specific to each person," said Renee Artman, the Forensics Sciences Laboratory manager who oversees a department of 32 forensics scientists.

Once a DNA sample is isolated from evidence by using a genetic analyzer, a profile is created. It is distinguished by a series of numbers and entered into the database. Most DNA samples take four to six weeks to complete.

CODIS received a considerable boost after Proposition 69 passed in 2004. The law requires the collection of DNA samples from anyone with a felony. Previously, samples were collected from people convicted of only specific felonies.

The system had four hits in 2002 and two the following year. A breakthrough occurred in 2006 when there were 29 hits after a combined 24 in the four previous years.

"I think it's extremely helpful," Sanders said. "I know several cases that would not have been solved without CODIS, including some very violent cases, some rapes and murders. If these cases hadn't been solved, potentially this person would be out there committing more crimes. There's a potential that this is saving lives.

"That's what I like. It has the potential to make a difference in people's lives."

Hernandez said that although CODIS has been a great benefit for detectives, the hits don't necessarily mean a suspect is automatically guilty.

"Even though there are hits on CODIS, that still only makes it a starting point for investigating that particular person," he said. "We're doing some good things with solving some crimes that haven't been solved before. It's gotten so good that even 10 years ago it wasn't as specific or dynamic as it is today."