The DNA Profiling Convicted Offender Unit (PCO) determines the DNA profiles of convicted offenders and stores their profiles in a computer database. Comparisons are made between the profiles found in the convicted offender database and the profiles obtained from criminal cases where no suspect has been identified.
NOTE: Convicted offender samples should now be entered on the Offender Entry website prior to sending them to the DCI Laboratory for processing. If you have questions regarding the website, or entry process, you can access the information below. Tara Scott (tscott@dps.state.ia.us or 515.559.7082) or Erica Ng (eng@dps.state.ia.us or 515.559.7063) or Eric Parry (parry@dps.state.ia.us or 515.689.3609) are available to answer questions regarding the Offender Entry website. They will assist you in any way they can to help you through this process. You can also contact the main DCI Lab number, 515.725.1500, and your call will be routed to the appropriate person to assist you.
Sampling of the current FTA collection cards
using an automated punch.
Offender Entry Website Training Information:
In response to the request for additional training opportunities, the DCI Crime Laboratory has filmed a video tutorial on sample collection. The video and website manual are available below:
After watching the tutorial complete the quiz then email Erica Ng (eng@dps.state.ia.us) and Eric Parry (parry@dps.state.ia.us) with a copy of the completed quiz.
The quiz is available below:
Quiz
With a passing score, a certificate of completion will be issued along with a website username and password for the offender entry website
NOTE: The best candidates for this training would be individuals directly involved in processing offenders through your location.
Convicted Offender DNA Web Program
Current FTA Buccal Collection Kit Instructions:
Please review the current collection process. If you have any questions concerning this collection process, please call the PCO (Profiling Convicted Offender) DNA unit of the lab at 515.725.1500.
- How to Collect Samples
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Q: When collecting DNA Samples from an offender do we let them swab themselves or do we have to swab them?
A: The collector should swab the offender. Do not let them swab themselves.Q: If contacted about re-collecting an Offender’s sample do I need to enter the new Offender sample on the website?
A: Yes, please follow the normal protocol for entry of that Offender. If you encounter any issues when entering that Offender on the website, please contact the DCI Crime Lab at 515.725.1500. - Who to Collect
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Q: I know that MOST aggravated misdemeanors are requiring DNA submission now but there are some that do not qualify. What aggravated misdemeanor convictions do not require sample submission?
A:- Violation of Ch. 321 (Motor Vehicle Offenses)
- A second offense violation of section 321J.2, unless the person has more than one previous revocation as determined pursuant to section 321J.2 (OWI) subsection 8 within the 12-year period immediately preceding the commission of the offense in question.
- A violation of chapter 716B. (Hazardous Waste Offenses)
- A violation of chapter 717A. (Agricultural Production Offenses)
- A violation of section 725.7. (Illegal gaming)
Just a reminder the individuals have to have committed the qualifying aggravated misdemeanor after July 1, 2014, and subsequently be convicted of that crime to require DNA sample collection.Q: Does a second DNA sample need to be collected under an individual’s alias information?
A: As long as all identifying information (DOB, SSN, DOC, DCI) match that sample does not need to be collected. The offender entry website will not allow you to collect enter an individual based solely on a name change. The system will flag the sample as a duplicate unless a re-collection is required.Q: Can I use these kits to collect known DNA samples for Casework DNA?
A: NO. These kits are only for the Convicted Offender Unit not for casework. - FTA Collection Kit Information
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Q: Where do I get more buccal FTA collection kits?
A: The kits are provided by the Iowa DCI Crime Laboratory, and are distributed to local law enforcement agencies by the Department of Corrections. Please contact Abby Williams (abigail.williams@iowa.gov or 515.725.5746) to receive more DNA collection Kits.