New DNA Access Law Sparks Hope for Solving Cold Cases in Gävleborg

A new law in Sweden allows police to access DNA genealogy databases to solve unsolved murders, focusing on Gävleborg.

Key Points

  • • The new law enables police access to DNA databases for unsolved murders.
  • • Three officers in Gävleborg are specifically assigned to cold cases.
  • • The initiative targets ten unresolved murder cases in the region.

On August 1, 2025, significant progress was reported in Gävleborg, Sweden, with the implementation of a new law allowing police to access DNA-based genealogy databases aimed at resolving unsolved murder cases. This innovative approach, which became effective on July 1, enables investigators to delve into genetic data to potentially identify suspects in ten cold cases that have remained unresolved for years.

Currently, three dedicated police officers in the Gävleborg region are focusing on these lingering cases. They have been working diligently over the past year, striving to bring closure to families affected by these unsolved murders. The introduction of this law marks a turning point, as genetic genealogy has previously shown promise in law enforcement efforts around the globe.