The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) is a clearinghouse for missing persons and unidentified decedent records. NamUs is a free online system that can be searched by medical examiners, coroners, law enforcement officials and the general public to solve these cases.
The Unidentified Persons Database contains information entered by medical examiners and coroners. Unidentified persons are people who have died and whose bodies have not been identified. Anyone can search this database using characteristics such as sex, race, distinct body features and even dental information.
The Missing Persons Database contains information about missing persons that can be entered by anyone; before it appears as a case on NamUs, the information is verified. NamUs provides the ability to print missing persons posters and even map out possible travel routes in a search for a missing person. Other resources include links to state clearinghouses, medical examiner and coroner offices, law enforcement agencies, victim assistance groups and pertinent legislation.
When a new missing persons or unidentified decedent case is entered into NamUs, the system automatically performs cross-matching comparisons between the databases, searching for matches or similarities between cases.
NamUs also provides free DNA testing and other forensic services, such as anthropology and odontology assistance.
Thanks for the awesome article on NamUs!! Legislative efforts are also currently underway to further strengthen and utilize the NamUs system through Billy's Law, The Help Find the Missing Act ... We finally have the opportunity to somewhat lessen the horror so many families with missing loved ones are forced to endure ... let's not let it pass us by - Help Pass Billy's Law today!! http://peace4missing.ning.com/forum/topics/on-the-road-to-passing-billys. - Billy's Law online petition - http://www.change.org/petitions/tell-congress-to-pass-billys-law-to-help-identify-the-missing
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