Groundbreaking DNA lab in The Woodlands solves mysteries, identifies crime victims

Othram, a groundbreaking DNA lab located in The Woodlands, Texas, is revolutionizing the identification of previously unknown victims of crime. CEO David Mittelman noted that the lab utilizes advanced DNA analysis, surpassing traditional methods by employing half a million data points compared to the 20 used in the national CODIS database. This technology successfully identified Calvin Mbwambo, a 26-year-old Tanzanian exchange student, and Clarence Wilson, who had been missing for over 40 years. The lab's ability to analyze degraded DNA samples allows it to tackle cases that law enforcement previously could not solve. Mittelman, who founded Othram with his wife in 2018, highlighted the lab's mission to provide answers and justice for families.

Funding for Othram's initiatives primarily comes from grants, police resources, and crowdfunding. He stated that by 2025, there should be no unidentified individuals remaining in the U. S. Othram's work not only impacts local communities but also addresses the broader issue of tens of thousands of unidentified persons nationwide.