As a former forensic scientist, I was terrified by columnist Steve Chapman’s “Fighting crime with DNA” (Commentary, Oct. 9). Taking DNA samples from everyone who is arrested on a felony charge is a huge jump from taking samples from convicted felons and is problematic in several ways.
First of all the load on the system would be enormous. Our crime lab already has trouble keeping up with its backlog of DNA cases, and outsourcing samples to private labs has opened up a whole new set of problems. To collect, test and database the additional samples would be an expensive undertaking.
Beyond the logistical problems lurk massive civil rights problems.
England, which is mentioned in the column, does not have a Bill of Rights. Taking DNA from everyone who has been arrested is a short step away from taking DNA from anyone who is suspected, and DNA testing is not infallible. In an atmosphere of fear, many people are willing to shred the Constitution in exchange for security. Look at the Patriot Act. Sacrificing freedom for security is a dangerous and foolhardy solution.
