DNA Collection

The National Institute of Justice presents Collecting DNA from Arrestees: Implementation Lessons. Twenty-eight states have laws authorizing the collection of DNA samples from offenders prior to conviction. Certain provisions apply, such as eligibility of offenses, responsibility for collection, governance of policies, analysis of samples, and responsibility for expungement of DNA profiles for case dismissals or acquittals. Collecting and analyzing DNA samples can become complex. It requires planning, resources, and time. Organizations must coordinate with crime laboratories and collection agencies. Data systems may require updating. Law enforcement departments and laboratories may need additional resources to hire and train employees, develop and conduct training, and design and distribute collection kits. Training must be ongoing due to staff turnover. System and material development, staff training, and preparation may require a year to accomplish. 

For more information on this subject, you may access the National Criminal Justice Reference Service, http://www.ncjrs.gov, report number NCJ 238484.