Overview
If there is a problem that has vexed the entire forensic DNA community since the inception of the CODIS system, it is the inability to track DNA cases through the system – from evidence collection, through testing to database input, to database hit and follow-up investigation, arrest, prosecution, result, and sentence. For the billions of dollars spent on DNA analysis, database development, legislative efforts, investigative and prosecutorial hours, drawing a line between that investment and the ultimate outcome is elusive. In a recent poll of CODIS laboratories, 70% of respondents indicated that they received outcome notifications for less than 10%. There is little to no systemic ability to connect, let alone correlate, the relation between a given DNA technique, database, source of evidence, or judicial outcome.
The challenge of tracking a DNA profile from crime scene collection through to conviction and sentencing is challenging due to systemic, technical, and legal limitations at nearly every stage of the forensic and judicial process.
- Reasons include:
- Siloed Data Systems
- Lack of National or Statewide Tracking Mandates
- CODIS Limitations
- Lack of Connectivity to Prosecutorial or Judicial Systems
