ABSTRACT
Once DNA analysis on evidentiary samples or samples from suspects is complete, there are several rationales for keeping the results as well as the samples on record in a database. The profile of the suspect can be used for comparison with profiles from other crime scenes, especially from unsolved crimes. The crime scene profiles can be used for linking various crimes to a particular known or unknown perpetrator. Keeping DNA samples and information on record could help to exonerate wrongfully convicted people when new, more powerful DNA testing technology enters the courtroom. DNA databases can be interrogated by profiles from other countries and jurisdictions in order to track fugitives from justice or link crimes committed elsewhere.
