Possible events or complications when investigating a crime scene using DNA as a primary source of evidence

Every person has a unique DNA and therefore it is a very accurate and primary evidence to investigate crimes for law enforcement assistance. It is used to investigate suspects by identifying the criminals who took part in the incidence (Shoester, 2006). DNA is used as primary source evidence in solving cold cases, murder, violence and robbery among other cases. Forensic, homicide, sexual assault cases and property complications are also investigated using DNA. These kinds of cases are investigated using DNA as their primary source in various ways (Bulman, 2014).

The quantity and the quality of DNA samples collected makes also affect the accuracy of the case and complication investigation. When the samples of DNA are not contaminated, they can provide enough information about the suspects. There are other complications that are solved using DNA as the primary source(Bulman, 2014). One of the complications is when violence is committed and there is no physical evidence such as damages. Samples of fingerprints and footsteps can help to investigate.

A study done in Florida shows that 52% of murder and sexual harassment cases were put in the database for break-in convictions. When the DNA is used, a hit of the DNA profile is able to match with those profiles in its database. This investigation helps in identifying suspects which becomes the primary source of investigation (Bulman, 2014).

Forensic cases are also best investigated using DNA. This is done through DNA profiling that was developed by Sir Alec Jeffreys in 1880s (Shoester, 2006). DNA for these cases is done by extracting samples cells of the people who were involved at the place of the incidence. Other body fluids such as blood, semen, saliva and urine are also used to ease the process (Shoester, 2006). DNA therefore plays an important role in getting hold of criminals who would not have been captured through other means of investigation.

 

 

References

Bulman P., (2014) Solving Cold Cases with DNA: The Boston Strangler Case. Retrieved from:  http://www.nij.gov/journals/273/pages/boston-strangler.aspx

Shoester, M. V. (2006). Forensics in law enforcement. New York: Nova Science Publishers.