Genetic Identification by Law Enforcement
Government Policies and Court Precedent
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a complex molecule found in human cells and “composed of two nucleotide strands,” which “are arranged differently for every individual except for identical twins.” — United States v. Kincade (9th Cir. 2003). Relatively new technology enables DNA analysts to determine the arrangement of these strands, thereby creating unique DNA profiles. In the law enforcement context, DNA profiles function like “genetic fingerprints” that aid in matching perpetrators to their crimes. As with fingerprints, law enforcement officers collect DNA samples from specific classes of individuals, such as prisoners. However, compulsory DNA collection generally entails blood or saliva samples…
