Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
10
Databases of DNA profiles
Several countries have developed national DNA databases that contain large numbers
of DNA profiles: the UK and the USA national DNA databases, as of mid-2010,
both contain the DNA profiles of over 5 million individuals. DNA databases that
store STR profiles have emerged as a powerful tool in the investigation of crime.
The effective use of the DNA database, in particular in the UK, has acted as a
catalyst for the establishment and expansion of DNA databases in other countries.
Currently there are DNA databases operating in almost every European country,
the USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. The Interpol DNA
survey in 2008 found that 120 countries were using DNA typing of one form or
another in criminal investigations, and 54 now operate a DNA database [1]. The
range and types of samples collected varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction as does
the retention and use of the data. This chapter will examine the development and
application of the UK National DNA Database (NDNAD), which is the first and
most extensive database of its kind. It will briefly examine the development of
databases worldwide.
The UK National DNA Database
The UK NDNAD was established in 1995 [2], shortly after STR profiling using six
STR loci (the SGM) was introduced into criminal casework.
Rationale for criminal databases in the UK
There are several justifications for the time, effort and money that a criminal DNA
database consumes.
•
Criminals tend to reoffend - 90% of rapists have had a previous conviction;
50% of armed robbers have a previous conviction.
•
The severity of crimes often increases - in many instances criminal activity
starts at a young age with many criminals committing their first offence between
16 and 19 years of age.
