Ethical Aspects of Forensic Genetics

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Ethical aspects of Forensic Genetics 1 Introduction The identity of human remains can be identified by forensic genetics. 2 Sir Alec John Jeffreys is a British geneticist, who developed techniques for genetic fingerprinting and DNA profiling which are now used worldwide in forensic science to assist police detective work and to resolve paternity and immigration disputes. 3 Colin Pitchfork (born 23 March 1960) is a British convicted murderer and rapist. He was the first person convicted of murder based on DNA fingerprinting evidence, and the first to be caught as a result of mass DNA screening. Pitchfork raped and murdered two girls in neighbouring Leicestershire villages, the first in Narborough, in November 1983, and the second in Enderby, in July 1986. 4 DNA data banks to store DNA profiles. 5 Forensic Applications of Genetics & DNA Proving Relationship and Real Parent Recognition Determining the type of crime committed and the identity of the victim (including name, date Birth, race and gender) Identification of suspects using residual evidence at crime scene Acquittal of suspects who were mistakenly arrested 6 Acceptability of genetic evidence in court Samples contamination Error in recording genetic data and its owner profile Error in analyzing genetic data 7 Classification of genetic samples • Identifiable • Traceable (coded) • Anonymized • Anonymous 8 Sample collection and preservation of biological samples • Collection after obtaining direct consent • Presumed consent (Opting out) • Mandatory sampling 9 Mandatory sampling Blood and tissue sampling of the defendants and offenders Blood and tissue sampling of the offender's relatives The Study of Genetic Diversity in the Human Population 10 According to the principle of "legality of crime and punishment," the offender is only entitled to legal punishment, not more. 11 Violation of privacy and the principle of confidentiality 12 13.

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