Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)

CODIS is an electronic database of DNA profiles that is maintained by the FBI. This DNA database is comprised of the following categories of DNA records:

1. Convicted Offenders - DNA identification records of persons convicted of crimes;
2. Forensic - Analyses of DNA samples recovered from crime scenes;
3. Unidentified Human Remains - Analyses of DNA samples recovered from unidentified human remains; and
4. Relatives of Missing Persons - Analyses of DNA samples voluntarily contributed from relatives of missing persons.

Every state in the nation is in the process of implementing a DNA index of individuals convicted of certain crimes, such as rape, murder, and child abuse. Upon conviction and sample analysis, perpetrators' DNA profiles are entered into the DNA database. Just as fingerprints found at a crime scene can be run through AFIS in search of a suspect or link to another crime scene, DNA profiles from a crime scene can be entered into CODIS. Therefore, law enforcement officers have the ability to identify suspects when no prior suspect exists.

The forensic lab provides the Department of Corrections, regional jails, and law enforcement with directions and materials used in collecting biological samples, cheek (buccal) swabs, from convicted felons and adjudicated juveniles who have committed qualifying offenses that will be tested for DNA and incorporated in the convicted offender DNA database CODIS.

To date there are more than 1,900 individuals' DNA that have been examined and are in South Dakota's genetic marker (DNA) database of violent offenders. This DNA database is an investigative tool for South Dakota law enforcement.