October 2008 Report
News and Legislative updates for anyone seeking the latest information on forensic DNA policy and practice |
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THE OCTOBER 2008 REPORT WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED DUE TO WORKLOAD ISSUES. WE HOPE TO HAVE NOVEMBER'S REPORT PUBLISHED IN A TIMELY MANNER.
IN THE MEANTIME, WE WANTED TO BRING TO YOUR ATTENTION A FEW IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS IN FORENSIC DNA. |
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SOUTH CAROLINA ENACTS LAW TO REQUIRE DNA FOR ALL FELONY ARRESTS
In an override of the Governor's veto, the South Carolina General Assembly has voted to enact a law to require DNA from all persons arrested for a felony offense. Expungement is automatic upon charges being dropped. Funding was not addressed but is expected to be on the agenda when the Legislature returns in January.
REAUTHORIZATION OF DEBBIE SMITH DNA BACKLOG ELIMINATION ACT PASSES CONGRESS
HR 5057, the Debbie Smith Reauthorization Act of 2008, was enacted by Congress and signed into law by the President. The bill reauthorizes federal funding for grants to state and local crime labs to assist with backlog reduction and capacity enhancement. The grants are reauthorized at $151 million through 2014.
LAPD TASK FORCE FORMED TO ADDRESS BACKLOG
An audit of 7000 untested rape kits at Los Angeles Police Department found over 200 that could no longer be prosecuted due to a lapsed statute of limitations. City Council authorized did not fund 16 new positions, and the Chief estimates $7 million is needed to address the current problem.
AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS SUCCESS WITH DNA FROM PROPERTY CRIMES
Of note, gasoline siphoning case solved by DNA taken from discarded siphon. Lab discusses prior backlogs and ongoing successes with DNA program.
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