Incorrect. No warrant is required to test an existing dna sample.
Every genealogy company has its own database of customers. Each has its maps showing the percentage of the sample's dna that came from a general area.You cannot go and sample random results to compare.
There are no chain of custody issues. This is not developing evidence. It is building leads.There is a chain of custody thing.
There are no laws I am aware of that would prevent a police department from sending a dna sample to a genealogy company.I agree that DNA is the best way to catch a rapist, probably the least common tho, you still need to follow the requirements to obtaining such information. It is illegal to fish.
The police have the rape kits from which the DNA samples will be drawn for testing by the private genealogy companies.Still, do they need a warrant to demand such access from the sample holders.
HIPPA does not apply.And then there's HIPPA..............Are samples considered public access or private only?
The slope leads to leads. It has the potential to identify genetic relatives. It could also identify repeat rapists. While the information could not be used as evidence it could still lead to the rapist. Once the leads have been followed it is possible the police could establish probable cause for further actions. Then the rape kit would have to go through the normal process. It could inexpensively help the police prioritize their efforts.It would be a most slippery slope, I think