The Swedish government is expected to legally support the use of DNA genealogy as a method for solving serious crimes from July 1, 2025. This method has previously been used in the US since 2020, where it has helped uncover hundreds of murderers and rapists.
In Sweden, the method was first used in 2020 to solve the 16-year-old double murder in Linköping, with the help of genealogist Peter Sjölund. Since then, the police have been waiting for legal approval to use the method in more cases.
With the upcoming law change, the police must prepare to implement the method. Several radio and TV features have recently discussed this topic, including how DNA genealogy can be used to solve serious crimes and potentially clear up unsolved cases.
For genealogists, it’s important to be aware of how this change in legislation may affect them, especially those who have shared DNA data in genealogy databases. Christina Sagersten will in the next issue of the magazine “Släkthistoriskt Forum” explain what genealogists should know about the new legislation and how they can contribute to police work.
In summary, the development of DNA genealogy as a police method in Sweden has been as follows:
- 2020: The method was first used in Sweden to solve the double murder in Linköping.
- 2021: The Swedish Data Protection Authority rejected the police’s proposal to use the method, citing a lack of legal basis.
- 2023: A government inquiry recommended the use of DNA genealogy in the investigation of serious crimes.
- 2024: The government presented a bill proposing that the method should be permitted under certain conditions for murders and serious rapes.
- 2025: The proposed legislative changes are expected to come into effect on July 1.
This development marks a significant step forward in Swedish criminal investigation, with the potential to solve more serious crimes using advanced DNA techniques.
