The use of DNA
technology results in a higher probability of arrest for all property loss
crimes, according to a study released today from the Department of
Justice's National Institute of Justice (NIJ).
The study found that obtaining DNA samples in property crimes
dramatically increases the chances of a burglar being caught and is more
cost-effective in the long run to law enforcement, according to an
experimental five city project evaluation.
"The information gained from this study will be valuable to other
cities and communities interested in collecting DNA evidence in property
crimes," said OJP Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey L. Sedgwick.
"It provides valuable information and best practices about collecting DNA
at burglary scenes. It could lead to major changes in law enforcement
policy and practice."
NIJ, a division of the Office of Justice Programs, funded the study
through a competitive grant process, with an independent evaluation being
conducted by the Urban Institute. Additional findings include:
- When DNA evidence is analyzed in property crimes, twice as many suspects
are identified, twice as many suspects are arrested, and more than twice
as many cases are accepted for prosecution compared to traditional
investigation (which do not use DNA evidence);
- DNA is at least five times as likely to result in a suspect
identification compared with fingerprints;
- Suspects identified by DNA had at least twice as many prior felony
arrests and convictions as those identified by traditional
investigation.
In 2005, NIJ provided funds to five cities -- Denver, Colo.; Topeka,
Kan.; Phoenix, Ariz.; Los Angeles, Calif.; and Orange County, Calif.; -- to
experiment with DNA evidence collection in property crimes. The experiment
was designed to determine if collecting DNA evidence at property crimes
scenes could be a cost-effective tool in helping local law enforcement
officials identify and apprehend burglary suspects.
Source: Justice Department
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