The use of DNA evidence in criminal cases continues to increase, as does the amount of research that dedicated to understanding how it works and how to use it responsibly. Recent concerns regarding the probabilities that scientists use and prosecutors rely upon in explaining the degree of conclusiveness associated with DNA evidence may lead to a reopening of thousands of criminal case verdicts across the state.
The science of the collection and analysis of DNA evidence is constantly changing and evolving. The evolution of our knowledge about DNA and how to use it as evidence is, of course, a positive thing. As is the case with any other scientific issue, the movement towards a greater understanding of the issue is the very aim of the scientific process. Unfortunately, as our knowledge and experience with DNA evidence increases, we sometimes learn that we have not been able to determine things with the degree of certainty that we had thought that we could.
The advancements that scientists have made regarding the probability by which a particular DNA profile appears at random in the population cast doubt on the current probabilities described to jurors in association with the use of DNA samples in cases where DNA from two or more people was present at the crime scene. These cases are commonly referred to as “mixed” DNA cases. DNA evidence is often described as being a type of evidence that can help jurors answer the question of how likely it is that a particular event occurred.
The potential implications of the concern regarding the accuracy of the probabilities associated with DNA evidence are serious. Since 1999, there have been more than twenty-five thousand Texas criminal cases involving mixed DNA evidence. It is possible that some of the defendants convicted by juries who analyzed the evidence presented to them after hearing what we now know to be inaccurate statements regarding the credibility and certainty of DNA evidence were wrongfully convicted. If retrials are necessary, the defendants, the crime victims, and their families must all repeat the painful process of reliving the trial and hearing all of the evidence again.
Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Alex Tyra – The Strong Defense That You Need
The concerns regarding the analysis of DNA evidence are not likely to reduce its role in criminal cases. Fortunately, criminal defense attorneys can learn about advances in the field of DNA evidence just as quickly as prosecutors, forensic experts, and others who are involved in the criminal case process. Your criminal defense attorney can stay on top of the most current knowledge regarding DNA evidence and use that knowledge to help you if your case involves DNA evidence. Even if your case does not involve DNA evidence, your Texas Criminal Defense Attorney has an up to date working knowledge of all of the types of evidence used in criminal cases, which they will use to build a strong case on your behalf. If you are charged with any type of crime, please call Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Alex Tyra, at (903) 753-7499. Alternatively, you may contact us online.
