Final answer:
The 'Golden State Killer' case illustrates the advancement of DNA profiling and genealogy databases in criminal investigations, as DNA from the crime scenes led to the identification of a suspect through relatives in genealogy databases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 'Golden State Killer' case demonstrates a significant advancement in DNA profiling and the use of genealogy databases. This breakthrough involved taking DNA evidence from crime scenes and identifying potential suspects through genetic matches with relatives found in public genealogy databases. This method of investigation showcases the power of modern genetics and forensic science in solving decades-old cold cases.
Forensic geneticists can analyze the DNA from biological samples such as blood, hair, or saliva to determine a genetic match. This technology goes beyond identifying perpetrators, extending into areas such as paternity testing, adoption cases, and the broader identification of individuals.
Furthermore, spatial analysis tools and geographic profiling, while not directly related to the actual capture of the 'Golden State Killer', have also played a role in understanding and predicting criminal behavior based on location data and geographical trends, strongly supported by the utility of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).