DNA Forensic Study

DNA Forensic Study
As has been said, the three persons who investigated the DNA fingerprinting conclude that it is more
important that the expertise contained in it is not confined to those who specialize in DNA forensics
such as the FBI rather the knowledge must be extended to all members of the law enforcement and
even the public as to where it identifies the evidence and what its procedures that needed to study to
have in order to obtain reliable end products. They also said that the more accurate measures can
mean the differences between putting the case to conclusion and letting it remain unsolved. As of the
year 2006, Dale, Greenspan and Orokos who did the report and conforming to their papers it
criticizethat the history of DNA is used by forensic investigators, that considered social science of
the DNA use as it connected to the public safety and reviews privacy concerns relating to the
provide an individual's blueprint. According to the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
First is, the voluntary, a suspect may be asked to voluntarily surrender a DNA sample to be deferred
to a casework forensic sample. Second, the count order figure judicious cause to authorize a law
enforcement agency to collect DNA samples from a felony. Third is law, an enactment authorizes
the collection of DNA sample from a specific group of people. Lastly, the abandonment, suspect
gives up control and custody of an item that includes his DNA(Dale, Greenspan, & Orokos, 2006).
Allowing the annual report of the National DNA Database Strategy Board as of 2012–2013,
NDNAD helps the law enforcement in giving worthful information that will lead in determining the
suspect and solve crime cases. However, sometimes the crime doesn't solve and more evidence
needs to be collecting to secure a conviction but in dealing with NDNAD it provides the police of its
needed information for DNA as an exact counterpart(Cooper,
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...

Pros And Cons Of Dna Databank
A DNA databank is a database of DNA profiles of people. A DNA database can be used to analyze
genetic diseases, fingerprinting for criminology, or genealogy. DNA databases may be public or
private to people, but the biggest are national DNA databases. Using DNA to trace people who are
suspected of committing a crime has been a major advantage in policing people and their bad ways.
When DNA profiling is used correctly it can help convict people who have committed serious
crimes.
The controversy surrounding the issue is that DNA databases can be used to track individuals who
have not committed a crime. Some people argue this invades their privacy. Certified people can go
through and view anybody's DNA profile.
There should be a DNA databank

Essay on Gathering the Facts at the Crime Scene
The excitement of watching a beautiful well–dressed medical examiner or forensic examiner in
stiletto heels hovering over a homicide victim is quite thrilling for television. However, in the reality
solving homicides is not as one would see on their favorite police show. As mention previous, the
intrigue with police shows on television make it difficult to found a jury that have not seen those
type show. Therefore, the court system has a problem obtaining a guilty verdict because jurors
wrongfully acquit guilty defendants when no scientific evidence has been presented, as they have
seen on television. As Donald Shelton states in "the CSI Effect: Does It Exist" this so–called effect
was promptly dubbed the "CSI effect," laying much ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This task can be accomplished through forensic evidence collection. Once the evidence has been
collected, it must be preserved by maintaining chain of custody to prevent evidence tainting. The
evidence will be preserved until it ready for presentation at the homicide trial. This paper will
examine the major sources of evidence that is required in a homicide investigation that will assist
the prosecution in obtaining a conviction in a homicide case. The Evident– Blood splatter A crime
scene is a unique merging of science and the law. Crime scene investigation is a process that
includes documentation of the conditions at the scene and the collection of any physical evidence
that coul¬d give reference to what happened. There is no typical crime scene, and the evidence
found there will vary. (Layton, 2005) When there is a homicide at a crime scene, the forensic
investigator will look for evidence to provide an indication of what actually happen. Did the person
kill their self? Did the victim suffer at the hands of a criminal? The crime scene investigator will
look at blood platter evidence as source to gain knowledge into these question. Blood splatter
evidence give investigator a scientific assessment into criminal investigation. When blood splatter or
drip from the human body, its is impacted by gravity and velocity. Therefore, it imperative to

The Role of Dna Technology in Crime Investigation
DNA profiling
DNA profiling (also called DNA testing, DNA typing, or genetic fingerprinting) is a technique
employed by forensic scientists to assist in the identification of individuals on the basis of their
respective DNA profiles. DNA profiles are encrypted sets of numbers that reflect a person's DNA
makeup, which can also be used as the person's identifier. DNA profiling should not be confused
with full genome sequencing. It is used in, for example, parental testing and rape investigation.
Although 99.9% of human DNA sequences are the same in every person, enough of the DNA is
different to distinguish one individual from another. DNA profiling uses repetitive ("repeat")
sequences that are highly variable called variable ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
* STR analysis The method of DNA profiling used today is based on PCR and uses short tandem
repeats (STR). This method uses highly polymorphic regions that have short repeated sequences of
DNA (the most common is 4 bases repeated, but there are other lengths in use, including 3 and 5
bases). Because unrelated people almost certainly have different numbers of repeat units, STRs can
be used to discriminate between unrelated individuals. These STR loci (locations on a chromosome)
are targeted with sequence–specific primers and amplified using PCR. The DNA fragments that
result are then separated and detected using electrophoresis. There are two common methods of
separation and detection, capillary electrophoresis (CE) and gel electrophoresis. Each STR is
polymorphic, however, the number of alleles is small. Typically each STR allele will be shared by
around 5 – 20% of individuals. The power of STR analysis comes from looking at multiple STR loci
simultaneously. The pattern of alleles can identify an individual quite accurately. Thus STR analysis
provides an excellent identification tool. The more STR regions that are tested in an individual the
more discriminating the test becomes. From country to country, different STR–based DNA–
profiling systems are in use. In North America, systems which

Argumentative Essay On Dna Databanks
DNA databanks are a highly debated subject in the United States. A DNA databank is a database
containing DNA profiles. These profiles can be used to track genealogy, genetic diseases, and
criminal history. There are several different types of DNA databanks. Forensic DNA databases keep
profiles to compare with DNA samples found at crime scenes. Genetic genealogy databases keep
results from genealogical DNA tests. Medical DNA databases keep track of genetic variations for
medical purposes. These databases, however, are very controversial and many fear its expansion,
particularly that of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the United States national DNA
database
Those in support of DNA databases cite many benefits to having every U.S. citizen's

Dna Profiling And The Criminal Justice System
In November of 1983, 15 year old Lynda Mann was found raped and murdered on a deserted road,
and although police were able to obtain a semen sample from her murderer the case remained
unsolved. In 1986 the killer struck again murdering 15 year old Dawn Ashworth, once again leaving
behind semen, but this time the police were able to use DNA profiling to match the semen to a
suspect. Colin Pitchfork became the first person to be caught based on mass DNA screening, and the
first to be convicted based on DNA profiling. The use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) in the
criminal justice system has greatly tipped the scales in favor of law enforcement, and changed the
world that we live in. Court cases that in the past relied heavily on eye witness testimony and
circumstantial evidence now have science to back them up. DNA analysis has revolutionized the
criminal justice system, and even though there are some flaws, the use of DNA evidence should
continue to be used by law enforcement. While DNA profiling is still considered to be fairly new ,
the analysis of the human genetic variation began more than a century ago with the discovery of the
human ABO blood group. Karl Landsteiner realized that these variations in humans could be used to
solve crimes. ABO could be used to exclude suspects, but police needed something that could
definitively point the finger at a suspect. In 1984, Alec Jeffreys discovered hypervariable loci, also
known as minisatellites. He discovered that the

Dna Database Ethics
How would you feel about a DNA database having record of every man, woman and child in the
United States? Many questions are raised on whether it is ethical to have, safe and beneficial. A
national DNA database could help solve crimes, but it also allows for thousands of innocent people
to be at risk. Many argue against having a DNA database and many are for a database. I am going to
argue against having a national DNA database because it has potential of being hacked, it is a
violation of individual rights and DNA is not 100% accurate. A national DNA database would be
under control by the government, but is the government able to create such a secure system to
protect valuable information? Government computers were hacked in 2015, exposing ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
Though there are many arguments against having a DNA database there are also reasons to have a
DNA database. DNA is one of the leading factors in putting criminals behind bars. When DNA is
evident in a criminal case, it makes that case a lot stronger. With a database of all citizens DNA it
can help law enforcement catch criminals to make communities safer. DNA will not only be able to
help solve crimes ongoing now and for the future but to help solve past crimes. DNA also allows for
scientist to use the valuable information for research to get a better understanding of health and
safety for individuals and to help link people who have the same medical condition. With an entire
database of all people, it allows for the system to not be discriminatory. Minorities make up the vast
majority of the criminal justice system. With every race, gender and ethnicity in the system it opens
up the ability for all people to be at risk for being in the system with DNA placing them for a crime
and making it harder to get away with one. There is also a possibility that having a DNA database
will lower crime rates. People who feel they can get away with crimes now, will have a higher
chance of getting caught. Those who fear getting caught because the government and police
agencies have their DNA will be less likely to commit crimes. Mark Kleiman a professor who deals
with criminal justice stated, "DNA databases reduce crime rates,

National Backlog of Untested Rape Kits
Policy Analysis
A. What is the policy?
There exists national backlog of untested rape kits. This is an outrage with disastrous consequences
for sexual assault victims. Currently, around 400,000 rape kits sit unexamined in laboratories and in
police storage across the country–each one of them containing the potential to solve a crime,
incarcerate a rapist and provide a victim with the justice they deserve.
There are two types of rape kit backlogs in the United States: the publicly–known backlog of
unexamined kits that have already been submitted to labs for testing and the secreted backlog of kits
in law enforcement safekeeping that have not been sent for testing. This latter backlog is of
particular concern since the programs already in place to reduce backlogs in laboratories, were not
intended to address unexamined evidence stored in police stations.
http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=InNews&ContentRecord_id=d005d0ed–c1ad–
4971–ad7b–edf6ffb20307 .
Implementing the Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Reporting (SAFER) Act would help State and
local law enforcement agencies to end both the police storage and laboratory rape kit backlogs by
providing State and local governments with subsidy to conduct one–year audits of the unexamined
sexual assault evidence in their possession. http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?
p=InNews&ContentRecord_id=d005d0ed–c1ad–4971–ad7b–edf6ffb20307 . The act would also
create a nationwide sexual assault forensic

The Pros And Cons Of DNAAnalyst
DNA analysts have been profiling DNA since 1985. Then in 1998, the Combined DNA Index
System became fully operational ("FAQs" 2010). CODIS's three levels are the national level, the
state level, and the local level. As September 2015, there is 14,740,249 DNA profiles in CODIS
("CODIS", n.d.). Since everybody has different DNA, except identical twins, DNA analysts have
been able to assists with investigator to determine between who is guilty and who is innocent. With
some of their findings, they are able to exonerate individuals, who have been wrongfully convicted.
Even though television may make DNA analysts' life look simple on the screen, it is not. There is
need for interest and education. Lastly, the actual job that entails for the DNA ... Show more content
on Helpwriting.net ...
Human DNA is very similar to one another, but only about 0.1% is different from the next person.
That 0.1% can tell a person's eye color, hair color, and other physical features. DNA analyst are able
to take a drop of blood, the size of a dime, and duplicate the number DNA found in that drop. With
the ability to duplicate DNA, analysts can have a back–up, in the event a human error were to occur.
Analyst can tell you exactly where your ancestors came from and the percentage that is still inside
your DNA. DNA is a very powerful tool that can identify a murder if the individual left any blood,
saliva, skin tissue, hair or semen. The education needed to be able make use of the DNA consists of
a great deal of science classes. The path to becoming a DNA analyst has many courses that need to
be taken. Some of the classes are microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, and infectious diseases.
Entry level jobs require analysts to have an undergraduate degree in a related fields to biology,
genetics, or forensic science. Also, analysts need considerable amount of time spent in the
laboratory, learning how to use most of the equipment in DNA laboratories. Laboratory courses
helps analyst ease in to the job more seamlessly as they gain experience with certain procedures and

Maintaining National Dna Database Case Study
Maintaining National DNA Databases: Struggle between Necessity and Ethic
SNEHA SINGH1
1Advocate, Rajasthan High Court, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Email – ssnehassingh1989@gmail.com
1. INTRODUCTION
DNA is an acronym, which stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. Every cell in an individual's body, with
the exception of red blood cells and eggs or sperm, contains the full genetic program for that
individual in its DNA. The human genome, which consists of about 3 billion base pairs, harbours
genetically relevant information that is essential for the characterization of each individual. [1] By
continuous researches it has been seen that every person has a unique DNA i.e. no two persons have
the same set of DNA sequence. For a long time only ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
When such DNA profiles are stored one after another in a system, what we get is a DNA Database.
The issue that we discuss in this paper pertains to development of DNA Databases, their necessity
versus the ethical problems that they pose.
2. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this paper is to understand basics of DNA profiling, its history and its position
around the world. The aim is also to discuss the underlying debate of decades as to whether DNA
databases must be maintained or not. It is a relevant discussion in view of draft bill having been
proposed in India with respect to DNA profiling and database. The objective is to deduce as to what
will be the happy medium if such database is introduced in India and also to realize the problems
that the system may have to encounter.
3. SCOPE
The scope of this paper is confined to study in brief about DNA profiling and not go into in–depth
discussion of scientific methods involved and development of this technique through the years. This
study will concentrate on social aspects of this technique and of DNA Database so as to understand
its implications on general masses and their private lives.
4. HISTORY OF DNA PROFILING
DNA profiling, which is sometimes interchangeably also called DNA fingerprinting or DNA testing
is a technique that is used to identify individuals by their genetic fingerprint i.e. unique
characteristics of DNA of an

Annotated Bibliography On Genetic Information
Have you ever taken into account the fact that all your genetic information could be stored on one
database; that at any time you could be identified for every action in a matter of seconds with the
click of a button? This notion has caused a large amount of controversy among the global population
causing a heated debate regarding the ethicality of having DNA databases. With a large amount of
technological advancement and the growing fears of citizens, these DNA databases have started to
rise in hopes of benefiting the global population. Critics opposed to this development have pointed
out many flaws regarding the idea and continue to promote the restriction of the growth of these
types of databases. Through extensive research, the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Tracing back to April of 1995 to the present, the development and advancements of DNA databases
have significantly progressed, allowing it to have the capabilities it has today. In 1995, the first
government national DNA database was established in the United Kingdom for the purpose of
collecting genetic information from criminals. This idea has since progressed to encompass the
genetic information of all citizens. This information will be derived from human material. There is
controversy over the idea of expanding from criminals to all citizens due to a threat to human
privacy. Although this controversy was rooted in England, over 60 other countries have come to
adopt the database system, thus causing the controversy to expand to all of these other countries ("Is
It Ethical To Have A National DNA Database?"). Some of these countries include New Zealand,
France, and even the United States. In the United States, the government started a project known as
CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) in 1994. CODIS is the FBI 's program that allows forensic
DNA laboratories to create and search databases of DNA profiles. The federal DNA Identification
Act of 1994 authorized the FBI to create CODIS and set national standards for forensic DNA
testing. Since 1994, the debate has expanded from having only the genetic information of criminals
to having every citizen 's information in one file.
There are numerous

Essay about The Positive and Negative Effects of Dna...
The Positive And Negative Effects of DNA Profiling
Justin Broyles Apr. 12, 1995 Justice Theory Lance Miller
Genetic engineering has developed and blossomed at a frightening rate in the last decade.
Originating as merely an area of interest for scientists, genetic engineering has now become an area
of which all people should be somewhat knowledgeable. DNA profiling has many uses, both
positive and negative, in our society.
Aside from its usefulness in many legal investigations, DNA profiling can be used in the workplace
to discriminate against employees whose profiles could pose a financial risk. For example, genetic
technology can and has been used to determine the capacity of a person to contract certain diseases,
such as ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Supposedly, the use of numerical codes will allow huge databases to search for a match of a
individual
DNA band. However, these matches are not 100 percent. This inconclusive correlation between
DNA patterns has led to a heated debate which has culminated in federal court with Daubert vs.
Merrel Dow Pharmaceuticals Inc. The ruling in the Daubert case said that the acceptance by the
scientific community is not enough by itself to allow certain scientific techniques into court as
evidence, especially given the reality that a suspects entire future could hang in the balance of a
scientific finding. Many people have argued that the use of a national DNA database infringes on the
individuals constitutional rights to privacy. However, law officials have claimed that the advantages
this database presents for society supercede the individual's rights. This dilemma can easily be
associated to the
"social contract" presented by Thomas Hobbes. In this contract, Hobbes believed that each
individual should give up certain individual rights in order to achieve protection from the whole.
The forfeit of the right to privacy of one's
DNA can thus be considered one of these forfeited rights. A person must weigh the advantages of
having a past, present, or future criminal's DNA profile on database with the disadvantages of
having one's own. But the disadvantages will outweigh the advantages when private institutions
develop

Dna Testing And The Second Amendment
DNAAS EVIDENCE
DNA testing was first used in criminal prosecutions in 1985 and is now admissible in all states.
(Hails, 184) Scientific and legal communities seem to universally accept the use of DNA as "good"
evidence. Questions could arise regarding testing procedures. There are several testing methods that
have been proven reliable and easily pass general acceptance and scientific validity tests. This is
causes number of Daubert cases questioning DNA to decline. "In most cases, the tests that are used
are well established and do not require a separate hearing" (Hails, 160) Once it is established the
testing method used passes the Daubert test, the court must determine admissibility based on the
Fourth Amendment. The Fourth Amendment is the right of the people to be secure in their persons,
houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable search and seizures, shall not be violated and no
Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly
describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized (US Const.) "In United
States v Davis, Earl Davis was shot and while being treated for his gunshot wound, the Howard
County Police Department (HCPD) in Maryland collected his clothing and logged it along with
records of Davis's arrest. The next year the nearby Prince George's County Police Department
(PGCPD) suspected Davis of a murder and obtained the clothes that HCPD had previously
collected. PGCPD then

Polygraph Investigation In The Criminal Justice System
Many questions go unanswered when questioning the Criminal Justice System's tactics to
apprehending criminals in the past, present, and future. For a while the Criminal Justice system
thought polygraph tests were the answer to minimizing all around crime becoming a controversial
solution to a rising problem. Recently, forensic investigations have revolutionized their methods to
better DNA fingerprinting to detain criminals; This becoming the next best thing other than local
police and first responders using Mini Drones as an extra tool in stopping offenders who are in
pursue. According to Liberty Pen, "Mini Drones would be for specific missions such as finding a
lost person, monitoring traffic, or for crowd control becoming a tool for mass surveillance by the
government".

Should Federal Agents Be Allowed For Collect Dna From...
Should Federal Agents be allowed to collect DNA from anyone arrested? This is a controversial
issue. In my opinion, DNA is a very powerful and useful tool because many sex crimes go unsolved
because of lack of evidence, but if federal agents can look in a database where DNA samples are
stored and compare it to anyone who was arrested especially those who committed sex crimes more
crimes would be solved. Many say DNA testing violates suspects rights under the Fourth
Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. DNA testing has toppled the way federal
agents gather evidence in various criminal cases, particularly assault and homicide and thus had an
expansive effect on a lot of people past cases. In this paper I am going to address ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
Not any law enforcement agent can collect DNA samples.
If federal agents detain and arrest an suspect, they have the power to take DNA from you and to
promptly transfer it to CODIS. In certain states an arrestee may be obligated to give a DNA test. The
DNA Fingerprint Act of 2005 permits states to transfer profiles to CODIS. Eleven states (Alaska,
Arizona, California, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, Tennessee, Texas,
and Virginia) at present take into consideration automatic DNA collection from people only arrested
or associated with a crime.
Generally the police require a court order to collect DNA unless they have been convicted of a
crime. Under federal law, the government obliges individuals arrested for specific unlawful acts to
give DNA samples. These laws violates the fourth amendment to the U.S. Constitution which
ensures "the right to the individuals to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and impacts
against unreasonable searches and seizures."
Pros and Cons
DNA profiling has numerous uses, both positive and negative.
Pros
Eliminates and reverse wrongful convictions Many times when a person is raped they are too
traumatized to actually remember the full details or only remember certain characteristics, or facial
features of the person who hurt them. So law enforcement makes an arrest based on the victims
memory. Then after convicted it is found out that the wrong person was

DNA Information System : The Use Of The Combined DNA Index...
Imagine a world from where the second you are born, you have a sample of DNA taken, and it gets
entered into a national database to ensure a safer world. For some, the thought of having something
so personal and unique to you in a national system is appalling, and for others, the thought of being
able to find the perpetrator of a crime easily with the help of DNA is more important to them than
having private information introduced into a database. Today, while not yet universal, DNA
databases are used by multiple government departments. DNA is the material in all living things that
carries genetic information. It is unique for every individual, with the exception of twins, and by
reading DNA, it is possible to identify someone. Human DNA ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Some may claim that a universal DNA database invades privacy and basic rights, but the fear over
any possible invasion of privacy is minor. In fact, former New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani
declared, "The opposition to DNA on the theory that this invades privacy– which comes mostly
from the ACLU– is no more compelling than the opposition to fingerprinting when it first started,"
(Marzilli 36).The objection to a universal DNA database is just like the objection to fingerprinting,
which today is accepted in society and no one fears their privacy is invaded for fingerprinting.For
those who oppose a universal DNA database because of the chance that they will be denied a job
because of genetic history, do not have to worry. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act
(GINA), passed in 2008, prohibits any employer from denying an individual a job due to their
genetic information. Everyone is allowed an equal chance at a job (EEOC). GINA protects everyone
from experiencing discrimination in the workplace, and due to this act, people should not be
opposed to a DNA database because they are protected from discrimination. Some also argue that
the methods of obtaining DNA are invasive. Jim Wooley, an attorney, spoke to an audience of law
enforcement officers that a method such as using a buccal swab, or using a cotton swab to rub
against the inside of an individual's cheek, may not initiate a search, explaining that, "Because it's so
easy to get them, you don't have an

DNA and DNA Profiling Made Simple Essay
1.1. Amplification
If the quantity of the DNA isolated is not enough, the specialist increases it to optimal levels via an
amplification technique that uses the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process. In addition, PCR
targets specific locations on the DNA strand known as the loci (singular: locus) to produce similar
copies.
1.2. Electrophoresis
In this process, the specialist separates the materials based on their size and composition of the DNA
strands on a particular gel in the presence of electricity. The figure below displays the
electrophoresis results (courtesy of How Stuff Works). 1.3. Analysis
The last stage involves analyzing the DNA screening results obtained based on a particular program
in the National DNA Database. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The criminal justice system employs DNA evidence in the conviction process. It is evident that
technology affects the criminal justice system either directly or indirectly. For that reason, the
lawyers and workers in the judicial system should better understand the various technological
aspects of DNA. Unfortunately, the professional outline of the criminal justice system lacks the
details concerning DNA. This calls for experts in biotechnology to interpret the various aspects of
the technology and its application in the judicial system in a simplified mode as much as possible.
This text presents a simplified guide that workers of the criminal justice system can follow to
understand the concepts of DNA and its biotechnological application in the field of study.
3. DNA Background
3.1. What is DNA?
The term DNA seems new and intricate to the judicial system because it does not closely relate to
scientific terms. Hence, a lawyer needs to understand what the term represents. DNA, the
abbreviation for deoxyribonucleic acid, refers to the major building component of life. It is a
relatively long, twisted, and coiled miniature strand that holds coded information (sequence)
necessary for directing and controlling all biochemical processes in the body. In addition, it is
responsible for determining the body's physical characteristics. For that reason, all individuals have
DNA materials, which are behind the uniqueness they portray.
In summary, the DNA material

DNA Development
DNA Development Many cases have been exonerated due to the advancement in DNA technology
and DNA databases. DNA technology advancement has influenced the criminal justice system in a
productive way. It has also improved by helping exonerate innocent people from prison and
connecting criminals to various crimes. Without the advancement on DNA technology many
innocent individuals could be spending many years in prison by being wrongfully convicted for a
crime they did not commit or have many unsolved cold cases. Although there many ways to keep
advancing the DNA technology it has become very beneficial in the criminal justice system. When
DNA first was introduced to the criminal justice system there were many errors Many times when
there is ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Now that the advancement in technology on databases it has become easier to convict criminals as
well. Many different cases have now been exonerated due to the advancement of DNA. Like shown
in the case of Dallas Dupree in 2011. Dallas Dupree spent thirty years in prison after being
convicted for rape, robbery and abduction. After finding new DNA evidence, questions were asked
if the was the individual Dupree that committed the crime. At last many cases like Dupree's where
exonerated which sets the individuals free from prison after many years of being wrongfully
convicted. For

Analyzing Dna Matches From Identical Twins And Other...
Each person's genome– apart from identical twins' or other multiple births'– is distinct because of
variations in allele frequencies which cause chromosomes to have certain genotypes. This indicates
that when the DNA found at a crime location matches a person's, the individual is the culprit of the
crime; however, finalizing a case is not this elementary. The evidence collected from a scene does
not show the person's entire genome. While it can certainly point to suspects whose DNA matches
the samples collected from the scene, it does not secure a definite criminal. Analyzing DNA requires
understanding of a few complex fundamentals, but probability paired with statistical reasoning
provides for a more accurate approach in assessing DNA matches. Humans each have 23 pairs of
chromosomes that have similar sequences since they are analogous in gene chronology. They are not
identical, though, because one chromosome is composed of alleles of a gene from one parent, and
one chromosome is composed of alleles from the other (Dawid and Thomas). Short tandem repeats,
or brief recurring patterns, take place at particular positions in all DNA sequences, variation
occurring due to the differing number of repeats from person to person (Dawid and Thomas). DNA
profiles select certain positions of the human genome and record the number of short tandem repeats
that appear there for each DNA sample being analyzed (which in a court case would be the suspect's
profile and the profile from the

The Case Of Maryland V King
As technology advances, the world is forced to adapt as an increasingly quick pace. Specifically, our
justice system must consider the constitutionality of surveillance and other information gathering
techniques and how they coincide with current interpretations of the Fourth Amendment which
protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures. The Supreme Court addressed this
issue in the 2013 case of Maryland v King explicitly related to the legality of DNA collection of
individuals early in the booking process for serious crimes. In a 5–4 decision, the Supreme Court
ruled that pre–conviction DNA collection of those arrested for serious crimes is constitutional and
does not violate the Fourth Amendment; a decision that will ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Justices Anthony Kennedy, John Roberts, Clarence Thomas, Stephen Breyer, and Samuel Alito
made up the majority of the court with the opinion founded upon the assertion that DNA testing is a
comparable method of identification to fingerprinting and photographing arrestees. Justice Anthony
Kennedy, wrote the opinion of the court, "sits at the court's ideological center and joins the court's
four–member liberal wing about a third of the time when it divides along partisan lines." As a
Republican, this makes him stand out as he actively resisted the kind of political polarization faced
by the court. Kennedy's swing vote is important in the consideration of our formal and informal
actors in the courts decision as he, and the other justices, are considered the formal actors.
DNA testing is the most accurate way to identify an individual, and should therefore be used to
increase the effectiveness of our justice system. This brings to light the issue of genetic privacy.
Society questions the motives of government in DNA collection and floods the media, which acts as
an informal actor on the court, with ideas of this invasion of privacy and encroachment of biological
liberties. The 2010 article, Create a National DNA Database? stated that "such sensitive information
is prone to misuse, and one should not have such blind faith in the security of government access to
it." EPIC, the electronic privacy

DNA testing Essay
DNA testing has overthrown the way police collect evidence in a number of criminal cases,
especially rape and murder and consequently had a large impact on many past cases. However there
are many disadvantages to DNA testing, such as a challenge of accuracy, the costs of DNA testing
and the possible misuse of DNA. The prospect of a national DNA database in Australia has been
heavily criticised with complaints of invasion of privacy and stigma against those with terminal
diseases.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA as it is most commonly known, is a strand of molecules found
within the cell nucleus of all living things. It is called a "genetic fingerprint" because each is
different to the other and everyone, apart from identical twins, have ... Show more content on
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Another downside to the use of DNA is the misuse of results. Victims with AIDS feel that they
might be stigmatised if their DNA is stored in a national database and it could be used against them.
The prospect of a genetic database in Australia has been raised recently. The federal police are
pushing for a national database to help solve crime and are asking for legislation to be allowed to
collect DNA samples from people accused, or suspected of committing an offence (the Australian,
06.12.1997 see appendix one)
The proposal has sparked a moral dilemma. Victoria has had a DNA database since 1992 with the
reasoning that, if a suspect is cleared, their DNA must be erased off the list. However, recently
Victorian government has allowed police to collect samples from more suspected criminals, not just
those accused of murder, serious assault or rape. Now they are allowed to collect from those accused
of drug trafficking, arson causing death and aggravated burglary.
Privacy is also another big issue surrounding the plans for a database. Chairman of the New South
Wales privacy council says that the prospect of a genetic database is a "cavalier disregard for
people's privacy"
Recently it was passed that all states, apart from Western Australia have the right to compose a DNA
database (The Sydney Telegraph, 22.04.2001 see appendix two) and already there had been a few
flaws found. With

Do Positives Of Dna Databases Outweigh Negatives?
Do the Positives of DNA Databases Outweigh the Negatives? DNA databases have always been a
controversial topic for not only the common people, but the governments of nations as well. DNA
databases store all of the citizens' DNA and basic genetic information on a national or international
computerized system. The reasons as to why it is controversial ranges from, human rights to the risk
of a security breach, and government corruption. Though the negatives vary and pose important
considerations, the positives of having a database can improve the accuracy and the shorten the
amount of time taken to solve crimes; and can create stronger international connections. Along with
these, people also believe that rather in decreasing the security of ... Show more content on
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However, The article was written in 2010, which could mean that the information is outdated and
may not be reliable in the sense of justifying the establishment of a DNA database. The lack of
logical fallacies found in the article also adds to the strength of the article and the reliability because
the logic the author was following was not flawed thus strengthening the argument. The author is
from South Korea, which allows for a stronger ability to see. However, the author is not an expert on
DNA nor the political aspects of having a DNA database, thus weakening the expertise of the author.
The author may also have bias because they are from South Korea and may want more
governmental influence in the country, therefore they would not want the nation's government to be
looked poorly upon. This must be suspected while evaluating the author because their stance on
government is unknown. Like South Korea, the UK DNA database, has been proven to help and
ease the lives of the citizens. "The UK national database holds the profiles and relevant DNA
samples from select individuals. It is the largest database of its kind internationally and continues to
grow annually." According to the article, the database has solved 60% of the crime cases in the UK.
The database allows for the police to identify DNA found at the crime scene with a DNA profile
already in the system, and quickly identify a possible suspect. Discrimination has been prevented
through the system

What physical evidence does in a criminal trial and the...
In the criminal justice system, the best chance of a fair trial and justice lies within cases that include
physical evidence. Physical evidence, whether fibers, fingerprints, or DNA, can give a jury proof
beyond a reasonable doubt. Physical evidence can convict a criminal, or it can free an innocent man.
It can bring closure to families and to the law enforcement that work the cases. The following cases
will show what physical evidence does in a criminal trial and the vast impact it can make. For each
case I will examine how the physical evidence was important to the case and whether or not it could
have made more of a difference if the presentation of the evidence were different. The five cases are:
the Mosley case, the Warren case, the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The fact that a murderer was free for years before his DNA helped to solve this crime is of huge
significance. The largest contribution of this case was not the conviction of a criminal, but I would
consider it to be the release of two men who were charged and later cleared. Many will agree that it
is better to let a guilty man go free than it is to imprison an innocent man. In this case, a guilty man
is behind bars, and not one, but two innocent men were cleared of charges. The next case may not
have led to a conviction, but it certainly would have. Not to mention the significance of closing a
case that was over thirty years old. In the next case, Edward Warren murdered an eighty–year–old
mother and grandmother in Oregon in 1976 after her grandson cancelled a visit (Harden, 2009).
Warren had been paroled on the very morning of the murder, and may or may not have known that
anyone was home at the beginning of the breaking and entering (Harden, 2009). The victim, despite
her age, scratched her attacker, and nail scrapings were taken that matched Warren (Springer, 2009).
The DNA match was only made after a new system was brought into place with further capabilities
(Springer, 2009). Warren later died while incarcerated for two more murders that he admitted to
(Harden, 2009). The physical evidence in this case never got to be presented because the DNA
system in place at the time of Warren's death wasn't adequate. In addition, Warren murdered two

The Future Of DNA Forensics
Forensics science has had a huge impact on today's legal system making it much easier to identify
and put away criminals. Before being able to identify people by their DNA the court heavily relied
on eyewitness accounts. This was not always the best option seeing that these accounts were not
always accurate. Now however forensics are able to find out someone's identity through something
as simple as a hair follicle. With this new technology not only is it easier prove someone's guilt, it is
also easier to prove one's innocence. For example, Kirk Bloodsworth was sentenced two life
sentences in prison for murder and sexual assault, and after spending 9 years in prison was
exonerated by DNA found at the crime scene proving his innocence. DNA ... Show more content on
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Thanks to the database it is now simple to identify someone by what they left behind at the crime
scene. In 100 years however how much more could DNA forensics improve? With this technology
crime rates are sure to go down a and protecting citizens will become a much easier task for law
enforcement. Though today there is the drawback of someone committing a crime and not being in
the DNA database this could possibly be fixed in the future. What if through DNA found at the
crime scene we were able to discover physical characteristic of the culprit through DNA. If this
were possible the police would be able to have a physical description of the criminal even if they are
not in the database. Another advancement that could be made in the future is the joining of separate
databases. If databases from other countries were to join together it would make it much easier to
find criminals who have escaped to different

Genetic Privacy And The Human Genome Project
With bounding advances in the field of genomics, genetic privacy has sparked a controversy. In the
1980s, the Human Genome Project was established to sequence the entirety of the human genome.
The first draft of this project was published in Nature in February, 2001, about 10 percent short of
completion (National Institutes of Health [NIH], 2015). Originally, scientists had hypothesized that
there was anywhere from 50,000 to 140,000 genes. However, after the release of the first draft and
the later completion of the full sequence in April of 2003, it was revealed that there were actually
about 20,500 genes (NIH, 2015). Since April 2003, the structure, organization, and function of these
many genes has begun to be better understood (NIH, 2015). As genetics moved forward, there was
hope of application in the fields of criminal justice and medicine. According to the International
Homicide Investigators Association, 40,000 unidentified deaths occur in the United States annually
(Willing 2006). That means every year, 40,000 people have families who remain unsure whether
their missing loved ones are still alive. If the justice system had access to a national genetic
database, this issue could be resolved; if all citizens could provide the justice system with samples
of their DNA, criminal cases and missing persons cases could be solved at a more efficient rate.
Furthermore, if doctors had access to every patient's genetic information, they could be informed
about possible health

Baran And Vogel: A Literature Review
Annotated Bibliography
Baran, Madeleine, and Jennifer Vogel. "DNA and the Wetterling abduction." American Public Media
Reports, 13 Sep. 2016, apmreports.org/story/2016/09/13/dna–wetterling–abduction.
Baran and Vogel begin by describing the kidnapping case of Jared Scheierl which occurred before
Jacob Wetterling's kidnapping. After 26 years, DNA profiling was used to match DNA from
Scheierl's clothes to Danny Heinrich. The court used Heinrich's pornography charges to compel him
to admit the assault of Scheierl and killing of Wetterling. Baran and Vogel then went to explain how
modern DNA analysis worked and the challenges found when a sample contains more than one
person's DNA. This is where DNA analysis can become uncertain. DNA technology can be flawed
when there are small samples of mixed DNA or the DNA is damaged or worn out by high
temperatures, or prolonged periods in water or the sun. Another reason DNA technology can be
flawed is that different labs interpret data differently which causes controversy and in some cases,
inconsistent results.
This article was written only a little over two months ago, therefore it is still very relevant. The
federal laws regarding DNA testing in criminal justice have not changed since this article was
written. Madeleine Baran is an ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He then goes on to acknowledge the use of DNA databases and how they work to apprehend repeat
offenders. Hurst focuses on the South African Police Service and their need for an expansion of their
DNA database to help solve criminal cases. Hurst then goes on to explain the legislation that has
been proposed that will ensure that all criminals arrested will be put into the national DNA database
and that only registered medical practitioners will be allowed to receive and store the evidence. He
concludes his article by explaining the risk of having the database run by a private

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Dna Databank
Introduction:
A DNA databank is a collection of DNA samples. These samples can be cross–referenced with other
DNA samples to determine if they originated from the same person in case of rape or murder where
DNA can be recovered from the crime scene. They controversy surrounding this issue is that some
citizens feel as if this idea is unsafe due to hackers and that this can be considered an invasion of
privacy.
Pro Side:
Having a mass DNA Database ran by the United States Government would allow police forces to
work even faster and apprehend criminals very easy.
Support:
A DNA Database is needed to catch criminals such as rapists and murderers or even provide medical
assistance. Having a DNA Database aimed at catching serious criminals such as murderers would ...
Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
With this rape kit DNA samples can be taken and if the suspects name and DNA are in the database
all they have to do is go find him. This is a great way to get rapists off the street. Many of times
people are hurt and left unconscious wit no family or even not identification on them so hospital
officials are left at a guess when trying to treat these John Doe's. With a mass DNA database doctors
could have access to: blood type, allergens, and any other sufficient medical history that might play
a role in saving that patients life.
Con Side: Having a mass DNA Database ran by the United States Government could possibly pose
many potential problems such as hackers, privacy issues and funding.
Support:
Having a mass DNA Database ran by the United States Government can potentially have many
problems.
One issue proposed over having a national DNA database is the threat of hackers. With the increase
of use in computers in the United States over the last few decades hackers have also greatly
increased. A breach in security of a DNA database holding very sensitive information of millions of
people could be

Dna Evidence Essay
Allowing the annual report of the National DNA Database Strategy Board as of 2012–2013,
NDNAD helps the law enforcement in giving worthful information that will lead in determining the
suspect and solve crime cases. However, sometimes the crime doesn't solve and more evidence
needs to be collecting to secure a conviction but in dealing with NDNAD it provides the police of its
needed information for DNA matches. Another report from Turman, herarticle about the importance
of DNA evidence to say in a strong and definite way that the offenders or to prove prisoner in
criminal cases has arose in the media with the developing regularity over the last few years.
Criminal justice professionals and the public behold that the forensic DNA technology is reforming
... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
She focused on providing to give persons credit for,that they should know how the DNA knowing
the significance of its identification, collection and preservation at the crime scene is critical in
obtaining accurate test outgrowth. Anyways, she also established report for the clarifying
conclusions of DNA analysis, and she stated that there are three types of results that can occur in the
DNA testing, the inclusion, exclusion, and inconclusive. Inclusion, when the DNA profile of a
known individual (a victim or suspect) matches the DNA profile from the crime scene evidence, the
individual is "included" as a capable of becoming real source of that evidence. While the exclusion,
when the DNA profile from an individual (a victim or suspect) does not match the DNA profile
bring about from the crime scene evidence, the referenced individual is "excluded" as the patron of
the evidence. Lastly, the inconclusive results, exemplify that the DNA testing did not yieldthe
corollaryinformation that would allow a individual to be either included or excluded of the
biological evidence that provides what is wanted or

The Government Wants Your Dna Database Generated By...
The government wants your DNA, yes or no? This has been the talk of the town after Major–
General Wesley Wong, Second Minister for Law, announced plans for expanding the existing DNA
database generated by forensic investigation to cover the entire population for the purpose of solving
and controlling crime and terrorism.
Understandably, many concerns arise when such confidential and sensitive personal data are stored
indefinitely on a DNA database. Who could guarantee that this information would not be used in
ways that threaten people's individual privacy and rights and that of their families? Access to an
individual's forensic DNA profile can track the individual or his relatives, and reveal more detailed
information about his health. This carries many serious implications to the individual. However,
there are currently no international safeguards that would protect people's privacy and rights and
prevent miscarriages of justice.
Personal information is at stake with this new move. This seems to be the primary concern of the
people, with many writing in questioning the safety of such private information. These concerns do
not relate solely to the storage of DNA profiles and samples, but also to the other information that
may be kept. DNA contains highly sensitive personal information, such as inheritable genetic
disorders that could be accessed and revealed if the sample is re–analysed. That being said, the law
could demand that the physical samples be destroyed as soon

The Pros And Cons Of A DNA Database
A DNA data base is a very helpful but potentially dangerous tool that has been recently considered
by the US, but has faced some controversy. In practice a DNA database would contain profiles and
potentially samples of every citizen's DNA. The DNA profile, while not extremely revealing in
itself, has been called out as a privacy violation. While it has its benefits the privacy issue will not
disappear so we must explore both options before we can make a decision about a DNA database.
While controversy exists for a DNA database, the US possessing such a resource could possibly be
one of the greatest advantages our government has ever possessed. Many times in crime shows you
see a miracle DNA identification, but in reality there is less than .1% of our population recorded in
such a fashion. With a nationalized DNA database it would be substantially easier to solve many
crimes where DNA presents itself. It would also create a way to ID people even when they provide
false papers or identity. Though perhaps the greatest point in favor of a national database is the
simple fact that if your innocent you ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
After the debacle with the NSA and them watching our every internet move, the public has begun to
show awareness and resistance against anything that would further the "big brother" status of the
American government. Aside from the obvious big brother, there is also the fact that we must
consider the public image of this move when we are basically saying to the parents of newborns
"We require DNA samples in case your child grows up to be a criminal". There is also the chance of
the DNA database being compromised and outside hands getting ahold of the sensitive data. As I
mentioned before, the profiles themselves are not terribly revealing beyond DNA, but there are
companies around the world that would pay millions for that kind of data

Dna Evidence Of A Dna Unit Within A Crime Lab
Today in the crime world, DNA evidence is strongly accepted in solving crime cases. This is all
based in part by allowing a crime laboratory to have a designated unit whose main goal is to analyze
DNA evidence to aid investigators with positive outcomes in crime case solving. With that being
said we are going to discuss the functions of a DNA unit within a crime lab as well as address the
vital role these units play in solving crime.
Let's start by defining what in fact is DNA analysis. According to the FBI's crime lab, the DNA
analysis process can take place when bodily fluid stains and other biological tissues are found on
physical evidence collected from a crime scene (FBI DNA Casework Unit, 2016). The DNA testing
results obtained from evidence samples are compared to DNA from reference samples collected
from known individuals. Such analyses may be able to associate victims and suspects with each
other, with evidence items, or with a crime scene (FBI DNA Casework Unit, 2016). The FBI and
other national crime labs can conduct nuclear, Y–chromosome, and or mitochondrial DNA testing
depending on the technology and funds appropriated to the unit. Smaller fielded units would
probably not be able to do some testing which would result in them forwarding evidence or using
other assets with greater capabilities.
DNA is the genetic material that makes up the characteristics of all living organisms. While all
human DNA is very similar in nature, there is just enough differences in

Dna Database
For over a decade, there has been a controversial issue dealing with building a national DNA
database. This issue has been brought up over the discussion of the actual database and what kinds
of effects will come out of it, if it actually happens to go through. Some people think the database
will be a force in crime fighting. Others think it is a violation of civil liberties. In the early 1900s,
"fingerprinting," a new crime–fighting database, was developed. With the exception of identical
twins, no two people have the same fingerprints. Every person who was arrested was fingerprinted,
and those fingerprints were inserted into the FBI computer database. This database holds over 40
million fingerprints and this system is still used ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
On April 24, 2008, President George W. Bush did in fact sign into Congress the bills of the Newborn
Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007 and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008
(Alston). Congressman Ron Paul (R) stated that the Newborn Screening bill is the first step towards
the establishment of a national DNA database, and is justified as a "national contingency plan."
However, surprisingly, he strongly opposed the bill in the first place. He insisted it threatened the
liberties of Americans and told Congress "the federal government lacks both the constitutional
authority and the competence to develop a newborn screening program adequate for a nation as
large and diverse as the United States" (Floyd). "Those of us in the medical profession should be
particularly concerned about policies allowing government officials and state–favored interests to
access our medical records without our consent ... My review of S. 1858 indicates the drafters of the
legislation made no effort to ensure these newborn screening programs do not violate the privacy
rights of parents and children, in fact, by directing federal bureaucrats to create a contingency plan
for newborn screening in the event of a 'public health ' disaster, this bill may lead to further erosions
of medical privacy" (Floyd). The bill states that the federal government should "continue to carry
out, coordinate, and

Dna Profiling And The National Dna Database System
Part B: Report
DNA Profiling: Is it ethical to have national DNA database system?
Introduction: Today, the advancing gene technology provides humanity with numerous benefits such
as Genetically Modified Food, CRISPER, and one of them is the use of DNA profiling for storing
bio–information. DNA fingerprint technology allows mapping of individual's genetic patterns that
can be stored into the database system (What is DNA fingerprint? 2016). The ability to profile gene
effectively, DNA fingerprinting is used as a problem–solving tool in the justice system and medical
science researches. At the same time, ethical and social issues such as privacy violations, human
rights and the possibility of discrimination cannot be ignored.
Biological Background: It is scientifically proven that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) contains
genetic material and highly specific to individual. DNA fingerprint can be tested by restriction
fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods and Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods.
Although RFLP is considered more accurate, due to the cost and requirement of longer period to
complete, it is not commonly used. While only 1% of genetic materials are unique to individual, the
short tandem repeats (STR) sequences called minisatellites can be used to distinguish all humans as
it shows great variation between each person (What is DNA fingerprint? 2016).
DNA fingerprinting technique involves a number of steps. The DNA sample from fluid, hair or any
part of the

The Pros and Cons of DNA Profiling Essay
The Positive And Negative Effects of DNA Profiling
Genetic engineering has developed and blossomed at a frightening rate in the last decade.
Originating as merely an area of interest for scientists, genetic engineering has now become an area
of which all people should be somewhat knowledgeable.
DNA profiling has many uses, both positive and negative, in our society.
Aside from its usefulness in many legal investigations, DNA profiling can be used in the workplace
to discriminate against employees whose profiles could pose a financial risk. For example, genetic
technology can and has been used to determine the capacity of a person to contract certain diseases,
such as ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Lawyers need to increase their scientific knowledge and keep up with ongoing research in order to
competently question and understand scientific evidence put forth.
But these do not represent the only possible downfalls of DNA profiling in criminology. The
involuntary seizure of one's blood or hair undermines the constitutional rights guaranteed to all
citizens by the Fourth Amendment
(protection from unreasonable searches and seizures). Nevertheless, many argue that a DNA sample
taken from a suspect could lead to an indictment or release of the individual and, thus, warrants an
exception from the Fourth Amendment.
Besides, one could make a plausible argument that, once held in custody, the seizure of a person's
strand of hair does not violate a suspect's Fourth
Amendment rights or rights of privacy because the hair is visible.
However, the use of DNA profiling does not end in criminal investigations. DNA testing has
ventured out of the courtroom in an effort to show a genetic link between race and violent
tendencies. If successful, this link will do nothing but justify prejudice attitudes toward minorities,
particularly the black race. Furthermore, such biological approaches towards criminality do not take
into account sociological factors, such as poverty, and would inevitably lead to the practice of
controlling

How Forensic Science Advances Have Caused More People
This is my Case Study about Keith Henderson, the basic details of the case are as follows; he
indecently assaulted a 16 year old girl while knocking her boyfriend to the ground causing him
injuries. He then falsely imprisoned them both at gunpoint in a field and made the boy laydown
while she performed sexual acts upon him. (http://www.bbc.co.uk) This case provides a great insight
into how forensic science advances have caused more people to be convicted of their crimes. Crime
scene investigators found a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) profile from a single sperm head at the
time, which was not enough to conduct a forensic analysis. At last a decade later, forensic scientists
had a way to make the DNA useable through developments known as ... Show more content on
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The 16 year old boyfriend was hit at the back of the head and lost consciousness temporarily.
Henderson grabbed the girl and held her at gunpoint threatening to shoot her if she spoke, he forced
them both to climb over a gate into a field. This is when he instructed the boy to lay flat on the
ground of which he then forced the girl to perform sexual actions. Despite being traumatised by the
event the girl ensured that Henderson's DNA was planted upon her clothes.
(http://www.independent.co.uk/) This was a key feature into prosecuting and bringing Henderson to
justice. It played a key role in the forensic investigation behind the case. Forensic evidence secured
the case which put Henderson behind bars for 12 and a half years and put him on the sex offenders
register for life. He was imprisoned for his crimes in July 2012 almost 11 years after he's offence.
(http://www.essentialforensics.co.uk/
This case shows how forensic science can greatly aid the police service as when they conducted this
original investigation; they had no suspects and eliminated more than 1500 people from their
enquires. There were no developments in the case for over a decade, and it would have stayed that
way if it wasn't for DNA advances. CH INSP Memory explained "Advances in forensic science have
brought Henderson to justice as despite a large manhunt at the time of the offence he had never
featured in the investigation until now,"

The Importance of Dna Evidence
The Importance of DNA Evidence
What is DNA? Is it these winding strands that look like ladders or is it what gives a person blonde
hair and blue eyes? Actually, DNA is both of these things. DNA is a person's genetic makeup–their
hereditary blueprint passed on by their parents. It is a part of almost every cell in the human body. In
each cell, a person's DNA is the same; it stays the same throughout their lifetime. DNA is found in
skin tissue, sweat, bone, the root and shaft of hair, earwax, mucus, urine, semen, and vaginal or
rectal cells. The DNA found in a person's saliva is the same as the DNA found in their blood. Parts
of the DNA determine our physical characteristics, such as eye and hair color, height, and bone
structure, but the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Every State in the Nation has a DNA database that allows for the collection of DNA profiles from
offenders convicted of particular crimes. CODIS software enables State, local, and national law
enforcement crime laboratories to compare DNA profiles electronically, thereby linking serial
crimes to each other and identifying suspects by matching DNA profiles from crime scenes with
profiles from convicted offenders. The success of CODIS is demonstrated by the thousands of
matches that have linked serial cases to each other and cases that have been solved by matching
crime scene evidence to known convicted offenders.
Recent advancements in DNA technology have improved law enforcement's ability to use DNA to
solve old cases. Original forensic applications of DNA analysis were developed using a technology
called restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Although very old cases (more than 10
years) may not have had RFLP analysis done, this kind of DNA testing may have been attempted on
more recent unsolved cases. However, because RFLP analysis required a relatively large quantity of
DNA, testing may not have been successful. Similarly, biological evidence deemed insufficient in
size for testing may not have been previously submitted for testing. Also, if a biological sample was
degraded by environmental factors such as dirt or mold, RFLP analysis may have been unsuccessful
at yielding a result (Turman).
Although DNA technology can be used in criminal cases

DNA In Crime Scene Investigation
Nowadays, DNA is a crucial component of a crime scene investigation, used to both to identify
perpetrators from crime scenes and to determine a suspect's guilt or innocence (Butler, 2005). The
method of constructing a distinctive "fingerprint" from an individual's DNA was first described by
Alec Jeffreys in 1985. He discovered regions of repetitions of nucleotides inherent in DNA strands
that differed from person to person (now known as variable number of tandem repeats, or VNTRs),
and developed a technique to adjust the length variation into a definitive identity marker (Butler,
2005). Since then, DNA fingerprinting has been refined to be an indispensible source of evidence,
expanded into multiple methods befitting different types of DNA ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Each person inherits two copies of these markers from his or her mother and father, so a higher
similarity denotes a closer biological relationship. The probability of two samples matching is
around one in a billion (dna.gov). DNA profiles are compiled by using gel or capillary
electrophoresis to separate samples into a pattern distinctive of the subject's DNA based on ionic
charge, size, or mobility. Usually, samples in the database are searched at moderate stringency,
which requires that all alleles between the two samples match, but the number of alleles can vary,
accounting for DNA contamination or degradation. Partial, or candidate, matches are samples that
have a similar number of alleles in the forensic profile but are not exact, and are used in familial
DNA searching to find close biological relatives of the original forensic profile. Other evidence is
used to determine relatives, including Y chromosome analysis, which traces family relationships
based on the fact that the Y chromosome is transmitted directly between a father and his sons; age;
and geographic location. The process is based on the principle that first–order relatives have closer
DNA profiles than unrelated individuals, and also on the sociological assumption that criminal
tendencies appear in families; according to "the Bureau of Justice Statistics Correctional Populations

The American Court System And Dna
The American Court System and DNA Will the use of forensic DNA in the courts be the equalizer
for the wrongly convicted? Per the National Registry of Exonerations, there have been 1,916
exonerations in the United States since 1989 ("National Registry of Exonerations," n.d.). Barry
Scheck and The Innocence Project have been instrumental in facilitating the exoneration process by
presenting forensic DNA evidence to American courtrooms. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the
hereditary material that lies within the nucleus of all cells in humans and other living organisms.
Each person's DNA is unique, and only identical twins share the exact DNA (Vocabulary.com,
2016). Quite by accidents, while conducting research in his laboratory, Sir Alec Jeffreys developed
the technique for the biological ID of any person using only a tiny sample of their DNA (Royal
Society of Biologists, 2016, p. 16). Since the introduction, the use of forensic DNA has manifested a
major impact upon the prosecution, juries, and the wrongly convicted in the American Court
System. As an instrumental character in the adversarial process the American Criminal Justice
system uses, the impact of DNA evidence directly affects the way prosecutors present their case
during trial. When a prosecutor introduced DNA forensic evidence to the American courtroom in
1987, that DNA forensic evidence was the catalyst that secured the conviction of a rapist, Tommie
Lee Andrews, in Orange County, Florida (State

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