DNA forensics has been a vital part of helping solve crimes for over a decade. In the USA, more than 20% of the jurors expect some form of DNA evidence in all cases. This is mainly because the general public believes in the tool’s infallibility.
Continue reading to understand the role of the service in modern law enforcement.
What Is DNA Forensics?
DNA is a genetic fingerprint discovered in almost every human cell. It is a unique identifier for every person and is essential in forensic investigations. From hair strands to bloodstains, law enforcement can analyze minute lines of DNA left on the scene. They can compare this with samples from suspects or databases like CODIS (Combined DNA Index System). This can:
- Identify Suspects: Matching DNA proof to a man or woman can link them at once to the crime scene, presenting valuable leads and strengthening the prosecution’s case.
- Exonerate the Innocent: DNA can conclusively rule out wrongly accused individuals, liberating them from imprisonment and restoring their lives.
- Connect Crimes: Serial offenders leave DNA signatures, permitting investigators to link relatively disparate cases and bring them to justice.
The Impact of DNA Forensics
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, has revolutionized investigations. However, its effect goes beyond the simple identification of suspects. Here are some of its nuanced contributions:
Cold Cases
Law enforcement can reopen decades-old, unsolvable mysteries with the power of DNA. Advanced techniques can analyze degraded samples, offering hope for justice even in seemingly forgotten cases. This brings closure to families and ensures accountability, regardless of the time.
Deterrence
The knowledge that DNA can link them to a crime scene is a deterrent for potential offenders. This approach, coupled with the efficiency of analysis, can contribute to safer communities. This combination helps reduce crime rates in high-risk areas.
Strengthening Investigations
DNA evidence is often the missing piece of the puzzle, supplying concrete support to hunches and eyewitness testimonies. This allows law enforcement to recognize probable suspects and construct stronger cases.
Building Public Trust
The objectivity and accuracy of DNA evidence instill public trust in the justice system. Conducting investigations with scientific rigor and transparency encourages cooperation with law enforcement.
How can ITSI Biosciences Help?
ITSI Biosciences offers various DNA forensic services to support law enforcement, legal proceedings, and familial identifications. The company’s services include:
- DNA Forensic Analysis: ITSI Biosciences performs nuclear and mitochondrial DNA analysis to support criminal investigations, familial identifications, and disaster victim identifications. They can utilize classical workflow and the Rapid DNA testing technology for efficient DNA sequence analysis.
- Paternity and Maternity Testing: Their team conducts DNA tests for various purposes. Their offerings can help with courtroom orders, child support, custody determinations, adoptions, and immigration cases.
- Human Identification: DNA testing for human identity can assist when other methods like dental information or fingerprints are impossible. This service is integral for forensic DNA casework, missing person investigations, and disaster victim identifications. It can also help with genetic/population studies, including cell line and tissue authentication.
- Forensic DNA Expert Services: ITSI Biosciences provides expert witness testimony and case consultation. Their team can offer technical review, preparation of PowerPoint presentations, video testimony, case review, and legal support services.
At ITSI Biosciences, we understand our responsibility to contribute to the pursuit of justice. We employ cutting-edge technology and maintain rigorous ethical standards to offer accurate and timely results. Please contact us for inquiries or to request a quote!