ABSTRACT
Within our cells are genetic storehouses that utilize information passed on from our ancestors through the union of egg and sperm and, in combination with environmental factors, determine the shape and functioning of our bodies and some aspects of our abilities and personalities. DNA is an important component of this genetic material and it is now possible to study it and to map out patterns and characteristics of our chromosomes that can be identified from tissue samples from bone and saliva. Despite collection and handling issues that made the process difficult in the early days of DNA sampling, law enforcement agencies have strongly supported the collection and storage of DNA samples, or scanned or textual data associated with the samples, in order to solve or prosecute crimes. In New York State, legislation to expand DNA collection to those charged with misdemeanors was opposed. Nevertheless, in 2012, district attorneys were encouraged to take samples to add to the state data bank.
