NCJ Number
134851
Journal
Medical Science and the Law Volume: 31 Issue: 2 Dated: (1991) Pages: 95-101
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The Metropolitan (London) Police Forensic Science Laboratory has been using DNA fingerprinting in crime cases since 1987 and has created an index of results from personal samples and stains from serious unsolved crimes. The laboratory also has a Sexual Assault Index which is used to identify linked cases in the absence of DNA, using behavioral factors to create an offender profile.
Abstract
The two techniques are complementary in the way they can be used to identify series sexual crimes. The number of files in the DNA index is increasing and will become more useful in nominating suspects for unsolved crimes and in eliminating innocent parties from enquiries. By linking an offender to more than one crime, DNA profiling will likely affect sentencing procedures and may also impact on acquittal rates. Offender profiling helps the police to indicate the type of suspect under investigation and the probable location of his residence. Offender profiling can help prioritize the submission of blood samples for DNA fingerprinting, organize the deployment of surveillance, and structure interview and arrest tactics. The use of both techniques could facilitate a more systematic approach to the organization of major investigations and better use of police resources. 10 references