DNA evidence dispute escalates
Article Abstract:
The controversial practice of using DNA fingerprints as a forensic tool is being tested in litigation and will soon be the focus of congressional hearings. To date, DNA evidence has been admitted in every state where it has been raised covering over 600 cases, including one before the 2d U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. In three recent 'highly litigated' cases, however, the evidence was excluded due to prosecution's failure to show an accepted scientific consensus on the method used to interpret DNA data. A report from the National Academy of Sciences is soon expected to address the issue of standards.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1992
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
NAS's final report is released; DNA typing
Article Abstract:
The National Academy of Sciences issued a final report on DNA fingerprints Apr 14, 1992, stating that evidence concerning this method's near-infallibility should not be admitted in court. The academy feels more research is needed to give a firmer support to such claims. It recommends accreditation of forensic labs for DNA fingerprinting and suggests quality testing by outside groups. The report also suggests an independent national DNA fingerprinting committee to advise on standards for this new technology.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1992
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Genetic testing criticized; a draft report says DNA typing testimony should not be admitted
Article Abstract:
A draft report by the National Academy of Sciences states that DNA fingerprints should not be admitted as criminal evidence. There has been some concern that the head of the FBI crime labs, John W. Hicks, may have influenced the group of 12 reviewers who prepared the report. DNA testing compares DNA from human tissues at the crime scene to DNA of the accused. DNA evidence has been admitted in more than 300 cases, but its scientific reliability is now felt to be dubious.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1992
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Defense bar up in arms; lawyer's arrest is criticized by colleagues. NBC, agency relationship is under fire
- Abstracts: Same ills, different solutions; tale of two cities. Seeking clarity on fines for polluting agencies
- Abstracts: Elementary, my dear Watson; establishing sound administrative systems is essential. Home alone; overcome isolation by getting help when you need it
- Abstracts: Sanctions asked in Pan Am suits. Grand jury looks at Flight 103; Pan Am's insurer at issue. Civil liability trial on Flight 103 to start
- Abstracts: Environmental courses enjoy a surge of student popularity. AALS conventioneers discuss how to teach class and poverty