The technology of DNA "fingerprinting" has advanced greatly in the past few years. It is now possible to test smaller pieces of biological matter and get a DNA fingerprint. It has also become possible to get a DNA profile from matter which has degraded, or is not fresh. In addition, the tests are faster and the matching easier because there are more and more data banks. DNA evidence is used not only to convict the guilty. It can also be used to free the innocent. In fact, the number of convicted felons found to be innocent after subsequent DNA analysis of evidence, has caused states to reconsider prior cases. Some states have even devised Post Conviction Plans which involve going back and taking another look at cases where DNA evidence still exists, or cases where the DNA evidence would be pivotal.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Advances in DNA Technology
The technology of DNA "fingerprinting" has advanced greatly in the past few years. It is now possible to test smaller pieces of biological matter and get a DNA fingerprint. It has also become possible to get a DNA profile from matter which has degraded, or is not fresh. In addition, the tests are faster and the matching easier because there are more and more data banks. DNA evidence is used not only to convict the guilty. It can also be used to free the innocent. In fact, the number of convicted felons found to be innocent after subsequent DNA analysis of evidence, has caused states to reconsider prior cases. Some states have even devised Post Conviction Plans which involve going back and taking another look at cases where DNA evidence still exists, or cases where the DNA evidence would be pivotal.
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DNA is a very useful part of information from a person. Having the ability to tell one person from another by DNA can lead to the difference between a killer and an innocent bystander. In criminal acts I think the best defense or accusations are linked with DNA.
ReplyDeleteI like to watch those criminal shows on television, and I know they aren't exactly like real life, but it gives you the sense of what's really going on. Good job on the post. It was well written, keep up the good work!
It's always great to see technology that makes convictions more accurate. The only time I see forensics at work is on TV and it always seems like there's too much guessing involved.
ReplyDeleteThis type of technology has literally saved lives. By proving the innocence of someone who was once found guilty DNA technology immediately proved its worth. Advances like this could lead to a better society and better advancements in the field of justice. It is important to get it right when it comes to sentencing someone to jail. Hopefully this will lead to other advances and we will get to the point when no one will be wrongly convicted of crimes they didn't commit.
ReplyDeleteI think that today's technology is moving really fast such as x-rays, different fingerprints and ultra sound. Today's technology has helped many people solve the problems. it really makes me think that in early days when our parents were young they didnt had all computers and all that and now we have computers, laptops, different machine like DNA technology. Technology is used in all majors no matter if you are a doctor or a businessman. Technology is one of the major parts of our lives.
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