Citation

Johnson P, Williams R. Sci. Justice 2004; 44(2): 77-82.

Affiliation

Department of Sociology & Social Policy, University of Durham, 32 Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HN.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Forensic Science Society, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/S1355-0306(04)71692-5

PMID

15112595

PMCID

PMC1351149

Abstract

The routine incorporation of forensic DNA profiling into the criminal justice systems of the United Kingdom has been widely promoted as a device for improving the quality of investigative and prosecutorial processes. From its first uses in the 1980s, in cases of serious crime, to the now daily collection, analysis and comparison of genetic samples in the National DNA Database, DNA profiling has become a standard instrument of policing and a powerful evidential resource for prosecutors. However, the use of post-conviction DNA testing has, until recently, been uncommon in the United Kingdom. This paper explores the first case, in England, of the contribution of DNA profiling to a successful appeal against conviction by an imprisoned offender. Analysis of the details of this case is used to emphasise the ways in which novel forms of scientific evidence remain subject to traditional and heterogeneous tests of relevance and credibility.

Language: en