San Antonio Police Department Awarded $1 Million Grant

The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) will receive over $1 million in new funding to enhance its ability to solve murders and cold cases. This funding will be used to implement forensic genealogy, a technology that analyzes DNA and genetic evidence linked to homicides and sexual assaults.

Funding Secured by Congressman Joaquin Castro

Congressman Joaquin Castro secured the funding for the city and the SAPD. He stated the investment is intended to bolster investigations and deliver answers to victims and their families.

Castro's Commitment to Justice

“Today we declare that we are determined to solve every single one of these unsolved cases, and that we are committed that if you murder someone in San Antonio, whether it was last year or 40 years ago, we are determined to find you,” Castro said. He also issued a challenge to the state of Texas to provide additional funding to further expand the technology’s use within the San Antonio Police Department.

Recent Cases in San Antonio

This announcement comes amidst ongoing investigations in San Antonio. On Wednesday morning, police responded to a shooting on the East Side, finding a man deceased from gunshot wounds just after 1 a.m. on Center Street.

Other Ongoing Investigations

  • A San Antonio woman is facing charges related to sharing videos involving the sexual abuse of a child via Snapchat.
  • New details are emerging following a shooting at Hill Country College Preparatory High School on Monday, where a teacher was wounded.