Solutions for DNA backlogs Peter M Marone Virginia
Solutions for DNA backlogs Peter M Marone Virginia Department of Forensic Science Texas Forensic Science Seminar October 7 -8, 2010
What is a backlog? n Not a backlog until over 30 days old n “If it’s in the lab, it’s backlog” n Police property room vs in the lab n Makeup of the cases
With all effort and funding expended, why is there still a backlog? n Demand for DNA testing is increasing n y. STR n Property crime n Touch DNA n Increased number of samples comprising each case n Expansion of data bases to include arrestees and misdemeanors
Exhibit 1. DNA casework trends: Supply, demand, backlogs
Expansion of database samples n n n Over the last several years, the number of eligible crime types has increased Arrestee testing begun in 2003 and crime types expanded over the years Commitment to supporting resources at the same time as expanding databases is required.
Exhibit 4. DNA database backlog trends from 2007 -2008
Evidence in law enforcement custody n Investigation shows the evidence is not probative n Charges dropped n Guilty plea already made n Case may be unfounded
What needs to be improved n n Improved training on the benefits, capabilities (and limitations), and use of DNA analysis Information management systems needed to track evidence and it’s status More standardization for evidence handling, storage and retention policies Review practices?
- Slides: 9
