NCJ Number
213911
Date Published
April 2006
Length
101 pages
Annotation
This report addresses the benefits, costs, and an attempt to provide technology for the implementation of Record of Arrest DNA Testing (RADT).
Abstract
National DNA databases of convicted felons have enabled investigators to identify any repeat offenders who leave DNA evidence at a crime scene. The effectiveness of this investigative tool has led many to call for an expansion of DNA testing to include all persons arrested for felonies. California, Louisiana, Texas, and Virginia already allow DNA testing upon arrest. The implementation of these laws, however, faces the challenges of funding and improvement in the processing and technology of DNA testing. Studies are needed to show that RADT not only reduces crime but also lowers the overall cost of investigations because of the increased ability of investigators to identify repeat offenders who leave DNA evidence at the crime scene. Cost savings for DNA processing can be achieved by a more efficient use of lab space through the redesign of DNA testing equipment to make it smaller. Further, to realize the potential benefits of RADT, DNA identification should be self-contained, have a rapid time to result, and be easy to use. Such a device is being developed under this research grant. It will result in a self-contained, mobile instrumentation that will provide for DNA identification at various sites, including crime scenes and disaster sites. The project has already resulted in the development of numerous assays for genetic variants related to forensic investigations. Assays have been developed for use with PCR amplification (STRs) and anchored SDA (STRs and SNPs). These efforts resulted in a panel of 22 SNP loci that feature automated amplification and analysis. Extensive figures and exhibits, 12 references, and appended supplementary data
Date Published: April 1, 2006