DNA Identication is a test to identify and evaluate the genetic information called DNA ( Deoxyribonucleic acid) in a person's cell. It is also known as method for identifying a particular individual as the source of the human genetic material in a sample such as semen, blood, or hair. Now a days the innocence projects is working harder to free innocent people from being accused for a crime. They can't just dust for the fingerprints, the scientist has to take DNA out of the nucleus out of the cell. In the past scientist would use a technique called the RELP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) to find the criminal. they now use something called a lab-on-a-chip which takes the DNA and makes different copies of it so they can figure out the fingerprint. No matter what technique they use it takes up to 24-73 hours to get a DNA test back.
Time Periods for DNA Identification(facts)
- In 1980 DNA identification just started to exist.
- In 1984 Alec Jeffery's developed the first DNA fingerprinting technique (now used much more often)
- In 1986 DNA fingerprinting was used in forensics.
- In 1987 the first criminal was caught using DNA identication and tesing.
Ways to identify DNA
The Positive Side
When used properly and in conjunction with other forensic tools and evidence, the number of wrongful convictions can be reduced. The proper use of DNA profiling can help rule out clear non-matches in paternity cases and crimes in which DNA evidence is present. This can be helpful to those who are wrongly or falsely accused. Moreover, forensically valuable DNA can be found on evidence that has existed for decades, and thus assist in reversing previous miscarriages of justice.
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The Negative Side
- A con could be that people believe its an invasion of privacy.
- Another con could be that it could become a strong sway over judges. It could have a huge negative affect on a judge.
- Another con could be that people get profiled. our DNA can tell a lot about us and it could be used negatively.
- Also some legitimate concerns about DNA collection and profiling involve the access others would have to it and what they would do with it. Health insurers could conceivably use it to deny coverage or claims.