The William R. Maples Center for Forensic Medicine at the University of Florida offers important DNA testing services for companion animals and wildlife. This testing supports investigations carried out by law enforcement and private groups. Forensic biology has become essential in solving cases involving animal crimes. The center employs expert analysts with many years of experience in forensic DNA testing, data interpretation, and court testimony.
Key Features of DNA Testing at the Maples Center
Expert Analysts Analysts have extensive training in animal DNA testing and forensic biology.
Wide Case Range The center handles animal-related crimes such as dog fighting, theft, poaching, and more.
Court Support Analysts are available to testify in court to support case findings.
Collaboration Services are offered to Federal, State, and Local law enforcement, as well as private agencies.
Types of DNA Testing Services
Service Type
Details
DNA Fingerprinting
Identifies individual animals; used to match animals with crime scene evidence.
Species Identification
Detects animal species including dogs, wolves, foxes, and coyotes.
Genetic Association
Connects injured or dead animals with criminal suspects.
Court Testimony
Expert opinions and findings are shared in court proceedings.
Case Review
DNA analysts evaluate and provide insight on complex or external cases.
Animals and Species Analyzed
Animal/Species
Purpose of Testing
Domestic Dogs
Identification in theft, abuse, and animal fighting cases.
White-tailed Deer
Used in wildlife poaching investigations.
Turkeys
Tracked in illegal hunting and trade operations.
Alligators
Investigations into harm to protected or endangered species.
Canid Species
Identification between dogs, wolves, foxes, and coyotes.
Common Types of Cases Handled
Dog Fighting Investigations DNA from fur, blood, and saliva helps link animals to illegal fights.
Cock Fighting Cases Feathers and blood samples are tested to trace animals to crime locations.
Stolen Pet Identification DNA testing confirms ownership and helps return pets to their rightful owners.
Wildlife Poaching Samples identify if hunted animals are from protected or endangered species.
Domestic Violence DNA from injured animals helps support abuse claims in legal cases.
Animal Attacks During Home Invasions Injured pets provide clues to identify intruders through DNA links.
Hit-and-Run Involving Animals DNA from animal remains connects incidents to specific vehicles.
Animal Predation Events Testing determines whether a predator caused injuries or death.
Skinned Animal Carcasses Species identification confirms if animals were illegally hunted.
Evidence Collection in Crime Scenes Collars, fur, and blood-stained items are analyzed for DNA connections.
Agencies and Organizations Served
Agency Type
Description
Federal Agencies
Local officers manage animal theft or abuse cases.
State Law Enforcement
National law enforcement groups need expert forensic support.
Local Police
Local officers managing animal theft or abuse cases.
Private Organizations
State-level police and wildlife departments handle animal cases.
Wildlife Conservation Bodies
Animal welfare groups and private investigators are using DNA tools.
Benefits of DNA Testing for Animal Crimes
Reliable Legal Evidence DNA offers objective proof that strengthens animal-related cases.
Animal Rights Protection Testing supports legal action against abuse and neglect.
Wildlife Preservation DNA tools help identify and protect endangered animals from poaching.
Community and Public Safety Identifying animal predators helps prevent attacks or repeated incidents.
Support in Family or Domestic Cases Injured animals offer silent but powerful evidence in domestic abuse situations.
Unique Features of the Maples Center’s Approach
Unique Feature
Explanation
Dedicated Animal DNA Analyst
Full-time specialist focused on animal DNA forensics.
Years of Experience
Analysts with deep knowledge of forensic biology techniques.
Court-Tested Methods
Services are available beyond Florida, including global support.
National and International Access
Services available beyond Florida, including global support.
Custom Testing Solutions
Flexible testing procedures based on each case’s unique needs.
In Summary
The Maples Center for Forensic Medicine at the University of Florida provides vital DNA testing services for animals. This work helps solve crimes, protect animals, and assist in legal proceedings. The center’s experienced team, scientific precision, and strong collaboration with law enforcement ensure justice in animal-related cases. Their commitment continues to make a meaningful impact on both wildlife conservation and community safety.
