Phase 5 Individual Project - Assignment Example

A DNA profile is encrypted numbers unique to a specific organism, and can accurately identify a specific organism. Variable Number Tandem repeats is an aspect of DNA testing, and they are similar related organisms. Unrelated organisms are less likely to have similar DNA profiles. Through the use of DNA technology, Timothy Spencer was convicted for the murder of Debbie Davis. Investigators collected hairs and semen at the scene of murder and they linked them to the DNA make up of Timothy Spencer.

From the trial, the jury was convinced that the genetic make-up in the pieces of evidence collected had a likelihood of matching the genetic make-up of Spencer to the accuracy of seven hundred and five million people. The conviction of Spencer was upheld by the United States Court of Appeal which held that the use of DNA technology was safe and rightfully identified the suspect. It can be used to exonerate suspects from criminal liability. Medwed (2012) analyzes the case of Woodall II vs. the State, where DNA tests proved that he was innocent of rape, robbery and kidnappings.

In the case People vs. Castro, the court held that DNA could prove that blood found on Castro’s watch is not his. This was a murder case in which Castro faced charges of killing his neighbor and her 2 year old daughter (Medwed 2012). Another purpose of DNA testing is to acquire a warrant of arrest and a jury induction. In Milwaukee Wisconsin, a warrant of arrest against John Doe is filed. This warrant of arrest is filed on the basis of matching DNA tests on the scene of crime. The state of Utah issued similar warrants of arrests against John Doe basing on the DNA tests found on the scenes of crime, and the state of New York filed a grand jury induction of John Doe.

However, the United States courts emphasize proper use of DNA technology in ensuring equitable application of justice. In the case United States vs. Schwartz (1989), the Supreme Court