For this assignment, you will explore the concept of secondary DNA transfer and its implications for criminal investigations.
Assignment Title: The Implications of Secondary DNA Transfer on Criminal Investigations
Background:
If your DNA is found on a weapon or at a crime scene, does that automatically make you guilty? A judge or jury might think so, but a new study from the University of Indianapolis reveals that secondary transfer of human DNA through intermediary contact is more common than previously thought.
This discovery could significantly impact medical science and the criminal justice system.
Years ago, DNA analysis required substantial samples of blood or other bodily fluids. However, advances now allow a complete genetic profile to be created from just a few cells—known as “touch DNA.”
The study highlights that the presence of touch DNA does not necessarily prove direct contact with the object or presence at the crime scene. DNA can be transferred indirectly, which raises concerns about the accuracy of such evidence.
Instructions:
Read the article titled “Could Secondary DNA Transfer Falsely Place Someone at the Scene of a Crime?” (provided via the link).
Answer the following questions in full and complete sentences. Use 12-point Times New Roman font and type your answers in a Word document (.doc or .docx). Please double space your assignment.
Proofread your answers before submission. Grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure will account for 10 points of the total assignment grade.
Submit your completed assignment as a Word document by uploaded
Questions:
Main Findings: Summarize and explain the main findings of the article as if you were explaining them to someone with minimal knowledge of criminal investigations.
Impact on Criminal Investigations: Discuss how the findings related to touch DNA could impact future criminal investigations involving DNA evidence.
Future Research: Suggest potential areas for future research or experiments that might be needed to further investigate the transferability of DNA.
See the journal attachment below