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Lisa Kreeger
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Program Manager and Senior Attorney, DNA Forensics Program
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Mark your calendar for the week of November 17, 2003, when APRI will convene the nation’s leading specialists from multiple disciplines related to DNA technology and evidence—science, law, the judiciary, law enforcement, victims’ issues, legal and social ethics—in the Washington D.C. area for its first national conference. The conference will cover a broad range of content, with a particular focus on the three principal steps involved in preparing a case involving DNA evidence: investigation, analysis and courtroom presentation.
Regarding investigation and analysis, topics are likely to include a review of new technologies, such as mitochondria DNA, “Y” chromosomes and SNPs, dealing with mixtures and using statistics effectively. Other presentations will address using animal DNA effectively, CODIS, databanks, and the new law in Virginia allowing for collection of buccal swabs upon arrest. Another probable subject of discussion is using DNA to prove other elements of crime beyond proving identity.
Regarding the forensic evidence use of DNA, there will be presentations discussing admissibility and discovery. Speakers will present effective policies that incorporate aggressive strategies for “cold case” selection and post-conviction relief. We also expect to offer a discussion of timesaving methods used to communicate, and even conduct, testimony over videotelephonic or closed circuit television, as well as demonstrations of effective cross-examination of defense experts. Finally, an update on current law affecting DNA use, especially involving death penalty cases, will be included.
The necessity of interagency coordination and communication is integrated consistently into all aspects of successful DNA use. This theme will be apparent in a majority of topics and presentations. Accordingly, representatives from the different disciplines —prosecutors, lab analysts, law enforcement, sexual assault nurse examiners and/ or victim advocates – are strongly encouraged to attend as teams. Efforts will be made to include members of the judiciary as well.
The DNA Forensics Program has resources on all the topics discussed above. We are always interested in receiving articles, pleadings, orders, opinions and transcripts that expand our ability to assist prosecutors. We also welcome your thoughts and suggestions for presentations at the national conference.
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