PODFRIDGE-Databases
United States forensic DNA databases (2001-2025)
Overview
This repository is part of the PODFRIDGE project — Population Differences in Forensic Relative Identification via Genetic Genealogy. The first phase focuses on consolidating authoritative information about where and how DNA profiles are stored in U.S. databases so later modeling can plug in realistic availability assumptions.
Project Sections
1. NDIS Database Analysis
Tracking FBI’s National DNA Index System (2001-2025)
- Objective: Reconstruct NDIS growth through Wayback Machine archives
- Key Findings: Exponential profile growth, jurisdictional participation patterns
- Methods: Web scraping, data validation, time-series analysis
2. SDIS Summary Analysis
State DNA Database Policies and Practices
- Objective: Examine variation in state DNA database policies
- Key Findings: Arrestee collection policies, familial search allowances
- Methods: Legal statute analysis, policy documentation
3. FOIA Document Processing
Racial Composition of State DNA Databases
- Objective: Process FOIA responses on demographic disparities
- Key Findings: Standardized data from 7 states, transparency framework
- Methods: OCR processing, data standardization, quality control
4. Annual DNA Collection
Murphy & Tong Study Appendix
- Objective: Document data sources and methodology for racial disparity research
- Key Findings: Consistent disparities, data limitations, methodological challenges
- Methods: Data provenance tracking, methodology documentation