DNA tests for people convicted of misdemeanors could be allowed under Colorado bill
DNA would be compared in criminal database
Phil Tenser
TheDenverChannel.com
Mar 5 2013
DENVER – A state representative took his own DNA sample at a news conference Tuesday announcing a proposal that would require people convicted of misdemeanors to submit samples for a database.
“DNA is a tool that works and expanding will make this a safer place for all Coloradoans,” said Rep. Dan Pabon.
A coalition of district attorneys said they support Rep. Pabon’s bill.
“Criminals do not follow a neat pattern of only committing one type of offense,” said Dawn Weber, Chief Deputy District Attorney in Denver, “We don’t see that they only commit a felony or type of felony, so passage of legislation that relates to collection for a misdemeanor conviction does have the capacity to catch and identify these very serious criminals.”
If it becomes law, DNA collected after a misdemeanor conviction would be entered into a database where it would be compared with DNA found at a crime scene. Colorado began collecting DNA from accused felons in 2010 under the so-called Katie’s Law.
That law is credited with solving cold cases and stopping repeat offenders.
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