[USA] Improving Public Safety by Expanding the Use of Forensic DNA / NGA Center for Best Practices, 9 February 2007
PDF - http://www.nga.org/Files/pdf/0702FORENSICDNA.PDF
Thomas MacLellan
"DNA can provide an unparalleled degree of certainty in solving crimes, identifying criminals, and identifying victims of violent crime. However, its full potential as a crime-fighting and crime-solving tool remains underutilised. DNA is not widely collected from evidence from high-volume crimes, such as burglary, despite research showing these individuals are also committing violent crimes. Governors have an opportunity to greatly improve how DNA can enhance public safety. By expanding the number of DNA samples included in state databases, they can help solve and, in many instances, prevent violent crimes. By mandating state and local labs to collect DNA samples in cases involving unidentified human remains, they can help bring to closure to missing person cases. By mandating statewide standards for forensic labs, they can ensure a high degree of confidence in the criminal justice system."