NCJ Number
125744
Date Published
1989
Length
68 pages
Annotation
This report of the New York State Forensic DNA Analysis Panel examines the scientific, legal, and policy considerations inherent in the forensic applications of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) technology.
Abstract
The scientific issues discussed include the limits of traditional identification techniques, the procedures and assumptions underlying DNA testing, the problems associated with existing technologies and population studies, and the concerns over quality control and subjective assessments. The report's legal issues section provides an overview of court rulings throughout the Nation pertaining to the admissibility of forensic DNA evidence. It discusses the standards that should be applied when DNA testing results are introduced as evidence for exclusion purposes compared to when they are introduced for inclusion purposes. The discussion in the policy issues section centers on the issues raised by the testing procedures currently used by the private and public laboratories performing DNA analysis. At the heart of the panel's recommendation is a model program for implementing forensic DNA analysis technology in New York State. The panel recommends the creation of a statewide DNA network served by at least three regional forensic DNA analysis laboratories. Appended supplementary information.