Evaluating DNA evidence possibly involving multiple (mixed) samples, common donors and related contributors. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kruijver, Maarten; Taylor, Duncan; Bright, Jo-Anne
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 54(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Probabilistic genotyping -- Kinship -- Relationship testing -- Common donors -- Combining evidence; Forensic genetics -- Periodicals; Génétique légale -- Périodiques; Forensic genetics; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102532
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1872-4973

Abstract

Abstract: Forensic DNA profiling is used in various circumstances to evaluate support for two competing propositions with the assignment of a likelihood ratio. Many software implementations exist that tackle a range of inference problems spanning identification and relationship testing. We propose a flexible likelihood ratio framework that caters to inference problems in forensic genetics. The framework allows for investigation of the degree of support for the contribution of multiple persons to multiple samples allowing for persons to be related according to a pedigree, including inbred relationships. We explain how a number of routine as well as more complex problems can be treated within this framework. Highlights: Pedigrees and mixtures are combined in a likelihood ratio method. Kinship testing can be based on incomplete and mixed profiles. Contribution to a mixture can be tested when contributors are related. Evidence can be combined across multiple samples.