News
14-November 2011
– LGC
Forensics provides key evidence in Jo Yeates
investigation
LGC Forensics' analysis provides key evidence
in Joanna Yeates investigation
LGC Forensics, the UK's largest
independent provider of forensic services, successfully used a
range of advanced forensic techniques, including LGC’s proprietary
DNA enhancement method, DNASenCE, to link Vincent Tabak to the 2010
murder of Joanna Yeates.
Joanna disappeared after walking to her home in Bristol on 17
December 2010 and her body was finally found on Christmas Day in a
country lane a few miles from her home. Working closely with Avon
& Somerset Police, LGC Forensics was instrumental in obtaining
a DNA profile from evidence found at the crime scene and in linking
this with a range of supporting forensic evidence, including from
Tabak’s car. The crucial evidence was provided by the work to
refine the DNA procedures in order to enhance the DNA samples –
which were inhibited, possibly by the unusually high levels of salt
at the location of the body, because of a recent snow
fall.
Teamwork played a vital role in this case and LGC Forensics set
up an internal focus group of forensic scientists who carried out
the technical DNA examinations, as well as interpretation, peer
review, and quality review. The group analysed a number of items
taken from Joanna’s flat and submitted by Police for analysis as
well as further evidence from the area where Joanna’s body was
found. The scientists used a combination of analytical tools
including exacting DNA enhancement work and fibre analysis, and
consideration was also given for recovery of hair, ecology and
biological samples.
Steve Allen, Managing Director of LGC
Forensics, said: “The successful use of painstaking forensic
analysis in this case is a positive result for the Yeates family
and for Avon & Somerset Police. We always welcome the
opportunity to contribute our skills and expertise to important
investigations such as this one, and we are pleased that the very
detailed and thorough work of our forensic scientists helped bring
resolution to this case.”
-Ends-
Notes to
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