The use of "DNA" in police investigations IntroductionThe issue of whether DNA should be used in police investigations is widely debated in the community

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M Shaban Rashid                                                                     Dr Paula Carey

The use of “DNA” in police investigations

Introduction

The issue of whether DNA should be used in police investigations is widely debated in the community. It is an important issue because it brings to attention the moral and ethical implications of using DNA as an investigative tool. A variety of different options have been put forward about the issue. DNA or deoxyribosenucleic acid is the genetic material in cells specific to the individual (Edwards,1978). Bodily fluids, skin, bones or blood samples can be tested for DNA material, which would indicate if someone was present at the crime scene or was any way connected to the crime. The history of DNA is very recent as it was discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick, what made it an important discovery was the fact that it had the potential to revolutionize policing methods. The use of DNA evidence in police investigations is a growing phenomenon but the general consensus of wider population may hinder its full potential as a tool for justice.

Firstly some background information about DNA.The history of DNA dates back to 1868 when it was first discovered, however scientists were slow in understanding and appreciating its fundamental role in genetics. Although scientists such as James Watson and Francis critick deduced the structure of DNA, it was the work of Alec Jeffery’s and his colleagues who realized that portions of DNA structure of certain genes are unique to each individual. This discovery caught the imagination of the forensic science community; for it has long been the ambition of forensic scientists to link with certainty the origin of biological evidence such as blood, semen, hair of tissues to a single individual. These days in terms of law enforcement DNA plays a major role. (Saferstein, 2001)

It has been argued that the DNA is inaccurate and hence unreliable. In their opinion crime scene may become contaminated therefore the use of DNA evidence from that particular crime scene as unreliable .Those who make these claims have some validity in their claim. However it als

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o must be considered there are strict instructions and guidelines for forensic experts and officers. The first officer arriving on the scene of a crime, takes steps to preserve and protect to the greatest extent possible the evidence.Morover as additional officers arrive, measures are immediately iniated to isolate the area. Ropes or barricades along with the strategic positioning of guards will prevent unauthorized access to the area. (Saferstein, 2001)

It is the contention of critics that the cost of DNA abstraction and analysis is simply too much. However it must be stated that the world is in ...

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