ABOUT RAPID:

BOOKING STATIONS – IDENTIFICATION OF ARRESTEES

States with laws to collect DNA samples from certain arrestees may be eligible to immediately and directly search a specialized index of the national DNA data base (CODIS) for possible matches in unsolved violent crimes.

WHY RAPID?

• Identify violent offenders and potential flight risks within 90 minutes of booking

• Eliminate existing loopholes in DNA collection processes which allow criminals to remain undetected

• Allow courts to make informed decisions on bail and bond

• INTERESTED? NEXT STEPS: Consider changes to state law to remove impediments to use of Rapid DNA analysis at booking stations and ensure criminal history information technology upgrades are scheduled.

  INVESTIGATIVE LEADS – UNSOLVED CRIMES

  Rapid DNA provides investigators with an opportunity to generate quick investigative leads for crimes that might otherwise linger in long backlogs at crime labs.

  WHY RAPID?

• 42% decrease in property crime in the first 3 years of implementing an investigative leads DNA program (Bensalem Township, PA).

• Suspects can be quickly identified OR eliminated from investigations

• Local use of Rapid DNA allows crime lab resources can be reserved for more complex, violent cases.

  INTERESTED? NEXT STEPS: State crime labs can use existing authority to allow local law enforcement agency searches of existing offender DNA indexes. No change to law is needed, but state crime labs may need policy instruction.

  DISASTER VICTIM IDENTIFICATION

  After a disaster, restoring community confidence in Government is a priority. Citizens will look to Government for answers and quick identification of disaster victims, and grieving families will not accept long delays.

  WHY RAPID?

• Rapid DNA used in Surfside (Florida) condominium collapse to identify remains upon recovery.

• Wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, chemical explosions, interstate tragedies ... be prepared for the next disaster.

  INTERESTED? NEXT STEPS: Consider victim identification legislation that establishes regional distribution of Rapid DNA instruments statewide that can be consolidated in times of emergency. Federal FEMA grants should be considered.

  NOT SURE WHERE TO START? CONSIDER WORK GROUPS

  Policy and funding changes needed to implement Rapid DNA could be simple in some states, but complex in others. Rapid DNA Work Groups can be established to convene stakeholder meetings for discussion of next steps -- with a requirement for a Report o the Legislature. Rapid Work Group stakeholders should include, at a minimum, State and Local Crime Labs, State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies, District Attorneys, and Medical Examiners/Coroners.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

DNA Justice Project can offer assistance with bill drafting, funding options, hearing testimony, or help with any other questions.