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Efforts Aimed At Closing Gaps In State DNA Database

Image: nimon/Shutterstock.com
Image: nimon/Shutterstock.com

A database of DNA samples becomes a crucial tool for law enforcement. The genetic material collected from those arrested on felony charges is catalogued, allowing investigators to quickly cross-match fresh DNA evidence to help solve crimes. In Ohio, the law requires suspects arrested for felonies to submit a sample. But thousands of times since 2011, state records show, that has not happened.  We discuss the problem and its remedies.

Michael O’Malley, Prosecutor, Cuyahoga County  
Rick Bell, Special Investigations Division Chief, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office 
Rachel Dissell, Reporter, The Plain Dealer  
Ken Mills, Director, Regional Corrections Cuyahoga County Sherriff’s Department