Blog & News
Dr. Robert Bever and the Evolution of Forensic DNA
Dr. Robert Bever helped shape forensic DNA science from its earliest days—developing the buccal swab, testifying in landmark cases, and building Bode Technology’s research team. As he retires after decades of innovation, colleagues reflect on his mentorship, scientific rigor, and lasting influence on the field.
The Importance of DNA Collections and Maximizing the Use of All Available Databases in Missing and Unidentified Persons Cases
When unidentified remains are found, investigators often face an overwhelming challenge: how do you identify the person when there is nothing to compare them against? One of the most powerful tools available to law enforcement and forensic professionals is already in...
Sherry Black Foundation and Bode Technology Partner to Advance DNA Testing in Violent Crime Investigations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Lorton, VA — May 18, 2026 — The Sherry Black Foundation (SBF), a private nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for victims of violent crime, today announced a partnership with Bode Technology, a leading provider of forensic DNA analysis...
Kaylee Goncalves Foundation and Bode Technology Partner to Expand Access to DNA Testing for Unsolved Homicide Cases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Lorton, VA— April, 27, 2026 — The Kaylee Goncalves Foundation, doing business as Murder Has a Name (MHAN), a newly established nonprofit based in Idaho, today announced a partnership with Bode Technology, a leading provider of forensic DNA...
What Decades of Sexual Assault Kit Testing Have Taught Us
Every sexual assault kit represents more than evidence. It represents a person. An act of violence. A search for answers that, in many cases, can take years, or even decades, to fully realize. Over time, advancements in forensic DNA analysis have transformed what’s...
Telling the Full Story: The True Toll of Wrongful Convictions
There are many steps along the long path to a wrongful conviction exoneration: The crime survivor, of course, or the families of the victims who weren’t so fortunate. Law enforcement investigators, prosecutors, defense attorneys, forensic scientists, victim advocates…...
Transfer DNA — an updated and unbiased term for Touch/Trace DNA
Authored by: Angela Williamson, Abigail Bathrick, Mike Cariola Forensic scientists have long recognized the phenomenon and probative value of DNA transferred to people or objects through direct or indirect contact1. Various terms have been utilized by the...
Reflecting on 10 Years of SAKI: A Decade of Impact, Progress, and Justice
As the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) marks its 10th anniversary, we reflect on a decade of progress. From testing thousands of kits to delivering long-awaited justice, see how Bode Technology and SAKI have transformed cold-case investigations and supported survivors nationwide.
Advancing Justice: The Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence Program
The Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence Program helps ensure fairness and accuracy in our justice system. Administered by BJA, this program funds state and local agencies to identify, test, and review old cases where DNA evidence may prove innocence. Learn how Bode Technology helps turn science into justice.
Bringing Resolution to Cold Cases: The Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA Program
The Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA Program helps agencies bring long-unsolved violent crimes to justice through advanced DNA testing and prosecution support. With Bode Technology’s forensic expertise, agencies can maximize funding, identify suspects, and deliver closure to victims and families nationwide.
Strengthening Forensic Science: Understanding the Paul Coverdell Program
The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program helps crime labs and medical examiner offices nationwide enhance quality, reduce evidence backlogs, and modernize operations. See how Bode Technology partners with agencies to strengthen forensic capacity, improve accuracy, and deliver timely justice for all.
Addressing the DNA Backlog: How the CEBR Program is Strengthening Forensic Capacity
The Challenge of DNA Backlogs DNA analysis is a cornerstone of modern forensic investigations, aiding in solving crimes, identifying victims, and exonerating the innocent. However, many forensic laboratories across the U.S. struggle with overwhelming casework due to...
Cold Case Awareness Month: Cold Case Arrest in Texas Highlights the Power of DNA Technology
This September, during Cold Case Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of never giving up on unsolved cases. Each case represents a person, a family, and a community still waiting for justice. The recent arrest in La Salle County, Texas, underscores how...
Moving Towards Real-Time Results, Real-Time Arrests: How Innovation Is Transforming Sexual Assault Investigations
When it comes to sexual assault investigations, speed and strategy can make all the difference. Today, jurisdictions across the country are demonstrating how innovation—through tools like Direct-to-DNA testing strategies, forensic investigative genetic genealogy...
Addressing the Crisis of Missing Persons and Unidentified Human Remains: The MUHR Grant Initiative
The national crisis of missing persons and unidentified human remains (MUHR) is a significant challenge in medicolegal death investigations, hindering closure for families, delaying criminal proceedings and impacting public safety. Thousands of individuals remain...
Announcing Dr. Lavinia B. Masters as the Bode 2025 Keynote Speaker
A Powerful Voice for Justice Dr. Lavinia B. Masters, a nationally recognized survivor, advocate, and legislative pioneer, will deliver the keynote address at Bode 2025: The Annual Forensic DNA Conference, taking place June 3-6, 2025, in Long Beach, California. Dr....
The Critical Impact of the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative
The Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) is more than a program—it’s a critical effort that transforms the way we address sexual assault and pursue justice. By tackling the backlog of untested sexual assault kits, SAKI opens doors to critical evidence, helping law...
Identifying Human Trafficking and Child Smuggling with Rapid DNA
When Seconds Matter: Rapid DNA at the Border A border agent observes a young man tightly holding the hand of a toddler as they approach the checkpoint. The man claims the child is his daughter, presenting a birth certificate as proof. But inconsistencies in the story...
Uncovering Human Trafficking and Solving Sex Crimes with Forensic DNA
A Hidden Crisis: How DNA Can Help Solve Sex Trafficking Cases Sex trafficking hides in plain sight. Often taking place in unexpected locations, like upscale hotels and neighborhoods. Traffickers target vulnerable individuals—those from unstable homes or difficult...
Announcing Bode 2025: A Legacy of Innovation, Collaboration, and Leadership in Forensic Science
A Letter from our CEO Announcing Bode 2025: It is with great excitement that I invite you to join us for Bode 2025, The Bode Technology Annual Forensic DNA Conference, taking place June 3-6, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach in California. This milestone year...