Dna

The use of ?DNA? in police investigations

The issue whether DNA should be used in police investigations is
widely debated in the community. It is an important issue because it
brings to attention the moral and ethical implications of using DNA as
an investigative tool. A variety of different options have been put
forward about the issue. DNA or deoxyribosenucleic acid is the genetic
material in cells specific to the individual (James & Nordy, 2002).
Bodily fluids, skin, bones or blood samples can be tested for DNA
material. What made it an important discovery was the fact that it had
the potential to revolutionize policing methods. Even though the use
of DNA evidence in police investigations is a growing phenomenon the
general consensus of wider population may hinder its full potential as
a tool for justice.

Firstly some background information about DNA, the history of DNA is
very recent as it was discovered by Oswald Avery in the 70?s and in
terms of law enforcement DNA plays a major role in forensic science.

Forensic science is the application of science in aspects of law
(James & Nordy, 2002). It is the use of scientific principles and
technological practices to the purpose of justice in the study and
resolution of criminal, civil and regulatory issues.

The use of forensic science as a tool in the search for the truth
allows justice to be done not only by apprehending the guilty, but
also by freeing the innocent.

It has been argued that the use of DNA as an investigative tool is
inaccurate because incidents may occur whereby the crime scene may
have become contaminated and therefore the use of DNA from that
particular crime scene would be unreliable, those who believe this
have their validity in their claim however it must also be considered
there are strict instructions and guidelines in place for forensic
experts on how to examine a crime scene such as the need to wear fresh
pair of latex gloves. Moreover there is... [continues]

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