When pursuing leads in cold cases, the San Francisco Police Department uses a hybrid approach that draws from both classic policing techniques and cutting-edge technological resources. Homicides and other violent crimes, including cold cases, are investigated by a specialized unit of the department known as the Homicide Detail.
The Criminalistics Laboratory, the Forensic Services Division, and the Crime Scene Investigation Unit all collaborate closely with the Homicide Detail. In addition to using cutting-edge methods like DNA analysis and other forensic procedures, the agency regularly investigates cold cases.
The department also has a Cold Case Unit that looks into cold cases that haven't been solved for a long time. Family members of victims, local groups, and other law enforcement agencies all work closely with the Cold Case Unit to compile material that could lead to a resolution.
The San Francisco Police Department takes an all-inclusive, teamwork-based approach to solving cold cases, involving many divisions and making use of cutting-edge forensics and investigational tools.