Posted on: Friday, February 11, 2005

EDITORIAL
Expanded DNA tests could be effective

A proposal to collect DNA samples from a wider circle of individuals who come into contact with the law could be effective, if handled with care and respect for individual civil liberties.

The proposal, aimed at helping convict (and exonerate) people accused of felony crimes, is being considered by lawmakers this session. It's backed by law enforcement officials, including Attorney General Mark Bennett.

Supporters say collecting DNA, or genetic information, is no different in practice from today's system of fingerprinting people. In truth, it is a great deal more intrusive.

A fingerprint or a mug shot can be used to identify someone, but no additional information is conveyed. A DNA sample can tell experts much about a person, up to and including what diseases he or she might contract over a lifetime.

Thus, collection of DNA information must be done judiciously and used carefully and wisely.

Today, felons convicted of murder, attempted murder or sex crimes are required to provide DNA samples. The original proposal would have required DNA sample collections of all persons arrested on suspicion of a felony, not just those convicted.

That goes too far, and lawmakers appropriately intend to limit collection to all convicted felons. The same proposal also mandates preservation of DNA evidence from crime scenes, which can be useful in post-conviction appeals.

If the DNA samples are collected strictly for purposes of identification, and if the law can be written so that no other use of the material will be permitted, this could be a useful tool for law enforcement. It would help in the prosecution of felony crimes and it would also be valuable for those who need to prove their innocence — both important components of our justice system.