Poster #62 - DNA Mass Screenings as Police Operation for Detection of Perpetrator

• In Event: ASC Poster Session II

Abstract

DNA mass screenings, that is massive taking of control (comparative) samples from persons whose exhibits similar features as perpetrator, is one of means for detection of perpetrator.
The first part of research was focused on legal bases. Comparative analyses were carried out for 26 countries, including US. Research shows that DNA dragnets in common law countries are not specified in criminal procedures. In some European countries (Germany, Netherlands, Ireland) such procedure is specified and materials can be collected with consent of person. In Switzerland it is allowed to perform DNA mass screening without consent of the person. In many European countries materials can be taken without consent on legal grounds for collection of materials from third parties.
Performance of DNA mass screenings were evaluated within second part of research. Reports from several countries were analysed. Own studies of criminal cases for Poland were performed. Research shows that DNA mass screenings were unsuccessful in 90% of 21 cases in USA from 1991 to 2004. Much better performance was observed in United Kingdom (21% of 292 cases were solved) and Germany (29% of 69 cases). In Poland DNA dragnets allowed for detection of perpetrators in 36% of 25 cases from 2000 to 2024.

Author

• Dariusz Wilk, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland