NCJ Number
130682
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 60 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1991) Pages: 11-15
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The FBI has a 4-part program for the use of DNA testing in the identification of individual biological specimens: (1) DNA casework, (2) technical assistance, (3) the National DNA Index, and (4) DNA research.
Abstract
The FBI Laboratory began forensic casework in 1988 and is now the main provider of DNA testing services in the country. About 2,000 DNA cases are submitted each year, about two-thirds for rape investigations and the rest for murder or other violent crimes. About one-third of the examinations have excluded the suspect that had been identified by the law enforcement agency as the source of the biological evidence collected from the crime scene. The FBI also provides classroom and laboratory training and a full range of technical assistance to State and local crime laboratories working to implement DNA testing. It is also establishing a National DNA index to allow crime laboratories to exchange DNA profiles for unknown persons and convicted sex offenders. Research is also underway to develop the next generation of forensic DNA analysis techniques. To ensure an effective and secure system, the FBI Laboratory is also promoting a uniform approach to DNA testing and profiling. Footnotes, illustrations, and descriptions of DNA testing techniques