Question

What are the pros and cons of DNA sweeps? Have students consider the potential utility of DNA sweeps and determine if they would submit to a DNA swab.

Given the limited impact of the exclusionary rule on crime fighting and Miranda on conviction rates, what purposes do they serve?

Answer 1

The advantages of taking DNA sweeps are that they are much less less invasive than other methods such as taking a blood sample. When used properly and in conjunction with other forensic tools and evidence, the number of wrongful convictions can be reduced. Furthermore, the proper use of DNA profiling can help rule out clear non-matches in paternity cases and crimes in which DNA evidence is present. This can be helpful to those who are wrongly or falsely accused. On the other hand, there are certain disadvantages attached to the use of DNA swaps as well. Many consider request for a DNA sample to be a violation of an individual’s right to privacy and a violation of their civil liberties. These stem from concerns with respect to the access others would have to it and what they would do with it, leading to potential misuse. In addition, these tools are not 100% accurate. Errors can be made and people conducting the tests, conceivably, could be convinced through criminal means to produce the desired outcomes. Thus, while judging the utility of DNA sweeps, students must weigh the aforementioned factors.

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