The application of DNA Essay

In the United States

In the United States, using DNA as an investigative tool is a widespread practice. Currently, DNA extraction is allowed in 21 states across the US thanks to laws that have been passed. Additionally, the majority of US states have DNA registries with criminal offenders’ DNA profiles in them. Following the arrest, law enforcement officials input the DNA into a national database to see if it matches any profiles there. (Denov & Campbell, 2005).

Adoption in Canada

It is crucial that Canada adopt the same procedure as the US. The DNA Act of Canada 1998 allows for the establishment of the national DNA database, which permits judges to order for the collection of DNA samples from people suspected to have committed serious offenses like murder and rape (Frégeau et al., 2003).

Effectiveness of the Practice

The practice is effective because it helps police officers to apprehend criminals commiting repeated offences. Research has revealed that criminals tend to recure their criminal activities as such, having a DNA database helps in fast tracking the process of investigation and preventing a recurrence of crimes. Furthermore, the DNA database is an efficient tool for analyzing forensic evidence (Taylor, 2003). It helps law enforcers to clear innocent suspects of any criminal liability and apprehend guilty suspects (Williams et al., 2004). In essence, taking DNA samples from suspects is no different from other common practices like a collection of fingerprints and photos; it is, therefore, a legitimate procedure. Although critics have raised concerns about violation of privacy, the benefits of the practice outweigh the costs (Rothstein & Talbott, 2006).

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no doubt that DNA is critical in solving serious crimes and administering justice. The use of DNA has helped justify innocent people and correct wrongful convictions in other jurisdictions like the United States. Considering examples of other nations, the practice will help law enforcers enhance the process of investigation in Canada.

References

Denov, M. S., & Campbell, K. M. (2005). Criminal injustice: Understanding the causes, effects, and responses to wrongful conviction in Canada. Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice, 21(3), 224-249.

Frégeau, C. J., Bowen, K., Porelle, F., & Fourney, R. (2003, January). The National DNA Data Bank of Canada—a laboratory bench retrospective on the first year of operation. International Congress Series (Vol. 1239), 621-625.

Rothstein, M. A., & Talbott, M. K. (2006). The expanding use of DNA in law enforcement: what role for privacy?. The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics, 34(2), 153-164.

Taylor, B. L. (2003). Storing DNA Samples of Non-Convicted Persons & (and) the Debate over DNA Database Expansion. TM Cooley L. Rev., 20, 509.

Williams, R., Johnson, P., & Martin, P. (2004). Genetic information and crime investigation: social, ethical and public policy aspects of the establishment, expansion and police use of the National DNA Database. Durham University, School of Applied Social Sciences.