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Forensic DNA data banking by state crime laboratories
1Division of Social Science, Ethics, and Law, Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center for Mental Retardation, Waltham, MA 02254, USA.
American Journal of Human Genetics
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Forensic DNA data banks collect more samples than analyzed, with varying security. The DNA Identification Act offers grants but requires standards for DNA data access and security.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Criminology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Legislation establishing forensic DNA data banks has been enacted in 19 states.
- Crime laboratories are responsible for the collection, storage, analysis, and security of DNA samples and data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey policies and procedures of crime laboratories regarding forensic DNA data banks.
- To assess the current state of DNA data banking practices, including sample management, data access, and security.
Main Methods:
- Survey of responsible crime laboratories in 19 states with DNA data bank legislation.
- Inquiry into policies and procedures for sample collection, storage, analysis, retention, search protocols, and third-party access.
Main Results:
- Sample collection significantly exceeds analysis, creating backlogs.
- DNA data banks are increasingly used to identify suspects and link cases.
- Indefinite retention of collected samples is planned by crime labs.
- Security safeguards for DNA data banks vary considerably among states.
Conclusions:
- The DNA Identification Act (1994) provides federal grants for DNA analysis, contingent on quality assurance and limited access.
- Effective allocation of grant funds between data bank analysis and case evidence testing remains a challenge.
- While federal legislation addresses CODIS data security, individual labs must implement robust internal safeguards.