Genetics

Resources

Taking DNA Upon Arrest: Ineffective, Expensive, and Unconstitutional

Document, Published: 
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
SB 6314 would allow the collection of DNA samples from arrestees who have not yet been convicted of any crime. But this kind of DNA collection has not reduced crime in the states that have tried it. Analyzing the DNA of every felony arrestee is expensive, exacerbates crime lab backlogs, unfairly targets communities of color, and takes samples from large numbers of people who are unlikely to commit future crimes.
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Arrestees Should Not Have Their DNA Taken

News Release, Published: 
Monday, December 7, 2009
A person’s DNA is the blueprint of one’s identity. The ACLU-WA opposes proposals to collect DNA from people who are merely arrested, regardless of whether they are convicted.
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Bill Would Provide for DNA Testing of Evidence

News Release, Published: 
Friday, November 20, 2009
A bill was introduced in the Senate and House of Representatives today to provide that an incarcerated person may ask a court for DNA testing of biological evidence relating to his or her case.
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Court Ruling on Collection of DNA Endangers Privacy, Says ACLU

News Release, Published: 
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
The Washington Supreme Court has ruled that police don't need a warrant or permission from a suspect before collecting genetic evidence from saliva used to seal an envelope. The ACLU had urged the Court to consider the risks to personal privacy from abuses of this practice.
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