NCJ Number
133236
Journal
Journal of the Forensic Science Society Volume: 31 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-September 1991) Pages: 353-363
Date Published
1991
Length
11 pages
Annotation
A simple but rigorous approach is outlined for evaluating the evidential value of single locus DNA autoradiographs.
Abstract
Rather than using a binning technique and treating alleles as discrete variables, the allele distribution is considered to be continuous. This approach provides a better fit to the true situation. The variation between two comparable bands is assessed using previously determined experimental parameters. Another advantage lies in the "quality of the match." A poor match, in which there are greater displacements between the bands in the suspect sample and the stain, will be given a lower numerator value and consequently, a lower likelihood ratio. A good match, in which there are low or no displacements between the bands, will be given a higher likelihood ratio. In its simplest form, this method involves arithmetic with four values read from smoothed experimental graphs. 4 figures, 5 references, and 1 appendix (Author abstract modified)