NCJ Number
223107
Journal
Forensic Science International: Genetics Volume: 2 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2008 Pages: 184-189
Date Published
June 2008
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a new fast analysis system for forensic DNA reference samples developed by the Swedish National Laboratory of Forensic Science (SKL), following 2006 Swedish legislation on obtaining DNA reference samples from suspects and the recording of DNA profiles in databases.
Abstract
Automated laboratory procedures are a vital part of the new system. The key challenge was to establish ways of handling information digitally with high security and a minimum amount of manual paper work. Under the new system, all information is handled digitally throughout the analysis, from the Web-based request sent in by the police by means of sample information management at the laboratory to sending profiles to the national DNA database and digitally signed "hit" reports back to the police. The system is supported by new logistic solutions, an expert system for profile evaluation, and new functions in laboratory information management systems (ForumDNA, Version 4, IDA Infront). The main strategy for the analysis system is to let as many samples as possible pass through the system as quickly as possible, with a strict batch handling. Rather than putting too much effort into evaluating a questionable profile, the sample is reprocessed. The strict rules, with threshold values well above the cut-off limit of 50 rfu, ensures a high profile quality, but with a lower success rate than if more lenient rules were used. The Swedish national DNA database consists of three sections: DNA profiles from suspects, convicted felons, and crime-scene stains, respectively. The number of convicted-felon profiles approximately doubled in both 2006 and 2007. Within 10 years, the number of convicted-felon profiles is expected to approach 150,000. 1 figure, 3 tables and 14 references