Uses of Forensic DNA
Forensic DNA analysis has played a crucial role in the investigation and resolution of thousands of cases since the late 1980s. Heralded as the most powerful and discriminating method of identifying the source of biological evidence available to the criminal justice system, forensic DNA testing now uses much improved technologies and protocols to promote reliability and courtroom admissibility.
Advancements in the applications of DNA evidence have allowed authorities to reopen unsolved “cold” cases, exonerate the wrongly convicted, and resolve missing persons situations. Samples can also be loaded into databases, allowing authorities to match suspects to crimes. This capability also helps prevent future crime by implicating career criminals with multiple offenses.
