Press Releases

Trinity DNA Solutions announces Child-O'Mine child protection program

[Milton, Florida 7/28/05] - Trinity DNA Solutions is pleased to announce a newly developed program designed to provide child protection by delivering DNA kits to parents and guardians.

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), in 1999 an estimated 797,500 children, nearly 2,200 a day were reported missing. Trinity DNA Solutions' Child O'Mine child protection DNA program provides a collection of information that includes a DNA sample that can be used to identify your child for the rest of their life.

"We're very pleased to have developed this program. Unfortunately a missing child is a topic that no parent wants to talk about, but it does happen. I hope parents realize that should the unthinkable happen, this piece of information can make a difference," states Candy Zuleger, President, Trinity DNA Solutions. Zuleger, a former crime lab scientist with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement started Trinity DNA Solutions in 2004.

Eighty-five to ninety percent (85-90%) of persons reported missing are juveniles. The NCMEC indicates that in a one-year period, there were approximately 114,000 attempted non-family abductions, 3,200 non-family abductions, and 354,000 family abductions.

The initial hours following a reported missing child are the most vital. Successful recoveries depend upon the parent's ability to provide a variety of basic information. Zuleger states, It's very stressful for parents, but many times crime labs are reduced to trying to obtain a missing child's DNA sample from items such as: toothbrushes, hairbrushes, teething rings, cups or other personal hygiene articles. Due to contamination with DNA from other family members, not every attempt is successful. That slows the process and keeps law enforcement from getting the information out.

Because Trinity DNA Solutions is a forensically accredited laboratory, each child's profile is capable of being uploaded into the state and national DNA database for missing persons. Trinity DNA Solutions is one of only a dozen private forensic laboratories in the US.

How does it work?

Trinity DNA Solutions' Child O'Mine DNA program uses the buccal swab collection method - a forensic science standard. The buccal swab is a cotton-tipped swab that is inserted into the childs mouth and gently rubbed against the cheek. The specimen is stable and may be stored in a secure, clean, cool, dry place for years or it may be sent at any time to the Trinity DNA Solutions' laboratory for processing.

The sample is processed using the latest DNA analysis technology and a unique one of a kind DNA profile is generated for that child using the same 16 DNA markers used in police forensic cases. The profile is permanent and can be used for the rest of their life.

For more information on the Child O'Mine program call Trinity DNA Solutions. 850-623-1984