Postconviction DNA testing has received considerable attention in recent years. Since the advent of forensic DNA analysis, a number of people convicted of crimes have been subsequently exonerated through DNA analysis of crime scene evidence that was not tested at the time of trial.
New technologies and methods for DNA analysis have improved our ability to successfully analyze aged, degraded or otherwise compromised evidence. Now samples once thought to be unsuitable for testing may yield DNA profiles.
In response to the 2008 solicitation Postconviction DNA Testing Assistance Program, the National Institute of Justice has awarded funding to five states to help defray costs of appropriate postconviction DNA testing.
Funding Awards
| Agency | 2008 |
|---|---|
| Washington State Department of Community - Trade and Economic Development View Press Release | $250,306 |
| Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet View Press Release | $1,164,441 |
| Texas Office of the Governor View Press Release | $500,000 |
| Virginia Department of Forensic Science View Press Release | $4,520,295 |
| Arizona Criminal Justice Commission View Press Release | $1,386,699 |
| Total | $7,821,741 |
