DNA collection machine invented in Idaho looking for permanent home in Idaho – 6 On Your Side

After spending 20 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit, Chris Tapp walked out of prison a free man in March.

The main contributing factor to his freedom, a machine called the M-Vac, a DNA collection machine that some are calling the latest and greatest technology in DNA especially for cold cases.

"We are working with stuff that should have been done if we would have had this technology a long time ago," said Francine Bardole, a senior crime scene investigator with the West Jordan Police Department.

The machine was invented in Jerome, Idaho, but ironically there are no systems in the state.

"Obviously we want to try to change that. I would love to see more systems up here, especially because I know it would help solve some of the crimes that I know can't be solved," said President and CEO of M-Vac Systems.

During a presentation, Thursday at BPD multiple crime agencies were in attendance just to learn more about the M-Vac, what it is, and how it works.

Bradley says knowledge is key in getting the system implemented.

"Agencies can't order the equipment or bring the equipment in and get it validated and everything else if they don't know about it," said Bradley.

While they said the M-Vac isn't a replacement for traditional swabbing of DNA and it doesn't work for every case, generally when it does help is where there are no other options available.

"These are things that law enforcement agencies need to know are available to them when they have reached a dead end," said Bardole. "You've got somebody roaming around victimizing the community, what is your next step? I say the M-Vac is your next step."

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DNA collection machine invented in Idaho looking for permanent home in Idaho - 6 On Your Side