Genetic genealogy has emerged as a powerful tool in resolving criminal cases long thought to be unsolvable.
This innovative approach combines traditional genealogical research with advanced DNA analysis, offering new hope for identifying unknown victims and apprehending perpetrators. Recent breakthroughs in two separate cases highlight the potential of genetic genealogy to deliver long-overdue answers.
What is Genetic Genealogy?
Genetic genealogy involves using DNA analysis to uncover familial connections. By comparing genetic material from a crime scene with DNA profiles submitted to public or law enforcement-accessible genetic databases, investigators can identify possible relatives of an unknown individual. From there, genealogists construct family trees to trace connections and narrow down the identity of the person in question—be it a suspect or a victim.
The process relies on DNA segments called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to identify shared genetic markers. Matches in these markers can indicate familial relationships, from close kin to distant cousins. Once investigators identify potential relatives, traditional genealogical techniques—such as searching historical records or vital statistics—are used to establish a precise identity.
Solving a 50-Year-Old Murder Case in Wisconsin
One recent case where genetic genealogy proved invaluable involved the 1974 murder of Mary K. Schlais. A 25-year-old art enthusiast from Minneapolis, Schlais was hitchhiking to an art show in Chicago when she was brutally murdered. Her body was discovered in Dunn County, Wisconsin, but for nearly five decades, investigators were unable to identify a suspect.
The case was reinvigorated by the Investigative Genetic Genealogy Center at Ramapo College of New Jersey. Researchers analyzed DNA from hair samples preserved in a stocking cap found near Schlais’s body. Using forensic genealogy, they developed a DNA profile and identified a suspect, Jon K. Miller, 84, of Minnesota. Miller was arrested in November 2024, marking the first time Ramapo College’s genetic genealogy program directly contributed to an arrest. Miller is currently in custody awaiting extradition to Wisconsin.
Identifying the Remains of a Child Missing Since 1959
Another case involved the remains of a child found in Mequon, Wisconsin, in 1959. Initially, authorities could not connect the remains to a missing child named Markku Jutila, whose adoptive parents had confessed to disposing of his body. Despite their admissions, prosecutors could not proceed without definitive proof linking the remains to the boy.
Decades later, in 2023, investigators extracted DNA from the child’s skull and utilized genetic genealogy to trace familial matches. By 2024, genealogists identified the child as Chester Alfred Breiney, Markku’s birth name, through connections to living relatives from the Breiney family. Though the adoptive parents, William and Hilja Jutila, died in 1988 and cannot face prosecution, the resolution brought closure to a case unsolved for 65 years.
A Transformative Tool for Justice
Both cases underscore the transformative role genetic genealogy plays in the justice system. Leveraging advances in DNA technology and genealogical research allows law enforcement agencies to address unanswered questions and hold perpetrators accountable—even decades after crimes were committed. Moreover, this technique provides a way to honor victims by restoring their identities and ensuring they are not forgotten.
For family history and genealogy enthusiasts, these developments highlight the profound connections between genealogy and criminal justice. The same methods used to trace ancestry and build family trees can now serve a higher purpose: bringing closure to victims’ families and solving the mysteries of cold cases.
Sources
- “Genealogy research at N.J. college leads to arrest in 50-year-old cold case,” nj.com
- “Genetic genealogy helps solve cold case homicide of child, remains found 65 years ago,” WDJT via kvia.com
Image Source:
- Photo by Karl Edwards: instant images
