Unleashing Investigative Genetic Genealogy: A Revolutionary Tool for Exonerating the Wrongly Convicted

Genetic Genealogy: A Tool for Justice

The Issue of Wrongful Convictions

Since 1989, over 3,600 people in the U.S. have been exonerated after wrongful convictions. DNA testing contributed to 606 of those exonerations. Recently, Robert and David Bintz were freed using investigative genetic genealogy (IGG). This technique analyzes DNA and genealogical data to identify suspects and has shown promise in solving cold cases and exonerating the innocent.

The Bintz Case

Robert and David Bintz served 24 years in prison after being wrongfully convicted based on false confessions and unreliable informants. Their exoneration is notable, as it showcases IGG’s potential beyond identifying perpetrators.

In 1987, Sandra Lison was murdered in Green Bay, Wisconsin. For years, police could not find a suspect. The Great North Innocence Project took on the Bintz brothers’ case, believing that DNA evidence from Lison’s murder would prove their innocence.

Using Genetic Genealogy

The Great North Innocence Project collaborated with Bode Technology to create a genetic profile from the crime scene evidence. This profile was compared against public genetic databases, FamilyTreeDNA and GEDmatch, leading to the identification of William Hendricks as the real perpetrator. Hendricks had a history of violent crime and had died in a mental hospital in 2000.

His remains were exhumed, and DNA testing confirmed that he was responsible for Lison’s murder. With clear evidence pointing to Hendricks, both Bintz brothers were exonerated.

Concerns and Future Use of IGG

Despite the success of IGG, doubts about the method hinder its use in exonerations. Many experts have established guidelines and standards for employing IGG effectively. There is a growing community of IGG practitioners, improving the credibility and application of this technique.

Challenges for the Exonerated

Exonerated individuals like the Bintz brothers face hurdles upon release. Unlike those guilty but released after serving time, they receive minimal support. Wisconsin law limits their compensation to $25,000, which is substantially less than the recommended $70,000 per year served by many states.

Call to Action

Lawyers working on wrongful conviction cases should adopt IGG. Additionally, the Wisconsin legislature should update its compensation laws to reflect fairer amounts for exonerated individuals. By doing so, they can help prevent injustices in the legal system and support those who have been wrongfully convicted.