Genetic Witness: Forensic Uses of DNA Tests

摘要

The report identifies technologies used to distinguish the DNA among individuals; discusses techniques to identify and prosecute violent criminals, as well as exonerate innocent persons who are suspects in criminal cases; and identifies applications that use the same techniques to determine parentage or identify and reunite missing children with relatives. It evaluates the scientific, legal, and ethical issues surrounding forensic applications of DNA tests; the validity and reliability of DNA tests for forensic casework; quality assurance and standards for DNA analysis by forensic laboratories; the legal basis for the admissibility of such tests in courts of law; privacy and civil liberties concerns about collecting, using, and storing genetic information and material; and criminal justice interest in employing DNA tests at the Federal, State, and local level.