Prototype “Rapid DNA” technology exhibited; could bolster forensic investigations

TAMPA — Using a portable kit to be able to quickly analyze human DNA collected in the field for investigative and forensics purposes has been a long-time dream for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), law enforcement and the Department of Defense (DoD).

Illinois lawmakers to target wrongful convictions

Quad City Times Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Just months after abolishing the death penalty, Illinois legislators are poised to consider new laws designed to stop innocent people from being sent to prison.

Kashmir bodies: Omar Abdullah promises DNA tests

BBC News South Asia
The authorities in Indian-administered Kashmir say they will carry out DNA tests on thousands of bodies discovered in some 40 mass graves.

Baltimore police to develop faster DNA testing

The Baltimore Sun
The Baltimore Police Department is taking part in a program to develop and test new technology that could significantly cut DNA analysis time.

New Test Detects Poachers’ DNA on Animal Remains

Environment News Service
GLASGOW, Scotland, September 27, 2011 (ENS) – For the first time, suspected poachers can now be tracked through tests for traces of human DNA on deer remains, according to scientists at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow and the Scottish Police.

Sedgwick County lab wields DNA bank’s power

Kansas.com
The scientists who use DNA to help solves crimes in Sedgwick County recently passed a milestone.

DNA Sampling Law Goes Into Effect Oct. 1

Branford Patch Connecticut
Some legislators hail new law as one more tool to catch criminals.

Wrongly convicted man recalls help from Wis. Innocence Project

Daily Cardinal
After police grabbed his forearm, indicating where he would receive a lethal injection if he did not cooperate, Chris Ochoa said he was ready to admit to anything—even if it meant spending life in prison for a murder he did not commit.

The Identification of the Romanovs: Can we (finally) put the controversies to rest?

Author: Michael Coble
Credits/Source: Investigative Genetics 2011, 2:20
For much of the 20th century the fate of the last Imperial family of Russia, the Romanovs, was a mystery after their execution in 1918.

Database of DNA reunites families

China Daily
BEIJING – Fu Ming’ai was reunited with his family on Sunday after 22 years.