Forensics and Police partner to identify unclaimed bodies

ICF Executive Director Dr. María Conte Miller

By The Star Staff

The Institute of Forensic Sciences (ICF) and the Puerto Rico Police formalized an agreement on Monday to improve communication with the families of unidentified or unclaimed deceased individuals, with the goal of facilitating their identification and eventual claim.

“Since its creation in 2024, the Identification Unit has done extraordinary work on cases that require scientific verification. With the fieldwork carried out by police officers, we will expand and speed up contact with families. This collaboration will allow us to identify more cases and provide quicker responses so that citizens can claim their deceased relatives,” said ICF Executive Director Dr. María Conte Miller in a written statement.

The agreement includes participation from the Police Bureau of Community Relations and the Office of Missing Persons under the Auxiliary Superintendency of Criminal Investigations. These units will support the effort through home visits, guidance to family members, and accompaniment throughout the process. The police will also assist with transportation for families who have difficulty reaching the ICF.

“The commitment of the Puerto Rico Police goes beyond crime prevention. We are also a source of support and compassion for our communities. This partnership with the Institute of Forensic Sciences allows us to help many families finally receive answers, say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity, and find closure,” said Police Superintendent Joseph González in a written statement.

The agreement will be implemented across all 13 police regions and aims to strengthen access to truth and dignity for the deceased, as well as emotional well-being for their families. Training sessions for staff have already begun through joint efforts between both agencies.