Misuse of DNA Evidence in Homicide Cases - Research Paper Example

Several barriers exist that limit the contribution of DNA technology to homicide investigations. They include failure by law enforcement to effectively analyze DNA evidence, lack of appropriate communication between law enforcement and crime laboratory, insufficient resources that may not justify the use of DNA technology and use of incompatible DNA analysis systems. There are inherent problems with DNA technology that could lead to wrong convictions. These include cross-contamination, mislabeling of samples, and intentional planting of DNA and misinterpretation of test results.

The government’s initiative to create DNA databases also violates privacy laws and therefore calling for the need for transparency on the use of personal information held in DNA laboratories. Given the challenges in the use of DNA evidence in homicide cases, it thus makes sense for prosecutors and investigators to work carefully, using accessible resources most competently. This will mean that DNA study should presently be carried out only when compulsory and required to establish an element of the crime.

Primarily, it is for identification and also to prove presence or contact of a suspect at the scene of crime, when it is has been denied by the suspect (Butterfield, 1996). DNA is a fundamental building block of the genetic makeup of an individual. It is contained in almost every single cell of the entire human body and is unique to every human being including identical twins. DNA samples collected from the scene of crime can be used like a fingerprint to exclude or include a suspect in a given case.

Since its discovery, DNA technology has proved to be a powerful tool in the provision of evidence to homicide investigators and other law enforcement agents. DNA can be found in a number of sources such as saliva, blood, hair, teeth, semen and bones. As early as 1980s, states began to enact laws that required the collection and analysis of DNA samples. In 1994, the