Technological Advances in DNA Analysis
Important technological advances are changing the cost effectiveness equation, including:
- Robotics and systems that automate crime lab verification systems (i.e., “expert” systems) continue to drive costs down.
Learn about NIJ's expert systems testbed (DNA.gov). - Evidence-collection expertise is becoming more widely available.
Take free, self-paced, online training on evidence collection (DNA.gov). - National DNA databases are expanding as states move to preserve offender profiles for all convicted felons.
Learn more about DNA databases (DNA.gov). - Criminal justice research continues to validate what many law enforcement officials have long suspected: criminals rarely “specialize;” many offenders commit different kinds of crimes.
These and other factors suggest that a true understanding of the costs and benefits of investigating and prosecuting a single case of burglary or theft may also include future crime savings.
Date Modified: June 16, 2008
