DNA Database Solving Less Than 1% of Crimes
Over the years there have been many proponents of the DNA database all of whom believe that having one will lead to more crimes being solved. Well in what can be considered a victory for the civil liberties persons among us, evidence presented at the Commons’ home affairs committee, suggests that the database is not accomplishing its intended goals. The Chief constable from West Midlands has reported that out of the over $4.8 million crimes that are committed in Britain every year only some 33,000 are solved with the use of the DNA database. His represents less than one percent of all crimes.
The Chief constable however was clear in insisting that the information should not be misconstrued. He impressed upon the committee that the DNA database was important in helping to solve some of the more serious crimes including burglary.
But many people have had their information included in the database and with some public outcry the government has had to shelve their plan to hold the DNA of those persons who were acquitted or simply not charged for a crime for twelve years. The government has now opted for six years instead and three years those who were arrested and no charge bought against them. But once someone has been convicted of an offence their DNA will be held for an indefinite period of time.
But the government’s response did not come out of some conscious thought and care. What really happened was that the European Court of Human Rights ruled that the practice of keeping people’s DNA indefinitely even if they were found guilty of an offense later was illegal.
It is very likely that the government’s new stance will not sit well with many who are suspicious of any government move. The European Court of Human Rights may have to be called upon again to rule on whether or not the new rules are illegal. The ECHR ruling had specified that a person’s DNA can only be held when “clear justifiable reasons” can be shown.
There is likely to a challenge to the government’s stance on DNA holding especially with the crime statistic simply not shown any real inroads being made.
I would just like to add something quickly before I go. A good friend of mine has been looking into this company called Enigin lately, you can find out about it on her blog by clicking the link. Anyways, she sparked my interest and I did a little bit of digging of my own, and it turns out that I really respect what they are doing, but they have been accused of being a pyramid scheme by outside parties. I guess all that I am saying is just check them out and see what you guys think for yourselves, but if you come to the same conclusion as I did, they could really use some support right now!