DNA as a Key Witness Essay Example for Free

DNA as a Key Witness Essay Criminals, often unknowingly, leave parts of themselves behind. These pieces are not always visible to the untrained eye. Hair, skin, blood, and fingerprints all contain elements that are unique to each person. It is with DNA testing and fingerprinting, that criminals can be identified and crimes can be linked. This system of testing and matching has become the â€Å"most essential and reliable method of catching criminals† in the United States (Lynch 67). Advancing technology is not only solving crimes, but also deterring them. DNA profiling, genetic fingerprinting, and DNA testing are all names for the same process and are used interchangeably. These terms all refer to the technique used by scientists to identify and match the genetic code (or DNA) of people. DNA is highly similar among humans, but there are always pieces of the coding that are distinguishably different and exclusive to each person, aside from identical twins (Lazer 9). Samples of genetic code are logged into easily searchable, computerized files called databases; searching these databases with DNA found at a crime scene will result in a match if the DNA of the criminal was previously entered. To begin genetic fingerprinting, a technician will procure a sample of DNA. This piece of genetic coding will be referred to as a reference sample (Lynch 12). There are many ways to obtain DNA. For criminal coding the most effective and proven method is that of buccal swabbing. This is the act of collecting a sample by rubbing a swab on the cells on the inside of a person’s cheek. Buccal swabs are a relatively non-invasive way to collect DNA samples for testing. Though DNA is relatively easy to acquire, there are issues involved in its application. It can be seen as an invasion of one’s privacy. Recently there has been some speculation about the accuracy of DNA profiling leading to concerns regarding the potential for criminals to have been falsely convicted. Critics of DNA say that the FBI has falsely applied theories behind its calculations, so courtrooms make DNA seem accurate. More than half the states have a mandatory DNA testing of all people convicted of sexual charges and violent offenses, to help in future criminal investigations. Alth ough some people say that this is an invasion of privacy, its a good way to prosecute repeat offenders and find suspects when only DNA evidence is available (Forensic 43). As accurate as DNA  profiling is, there are still many questions about the validity of DNA science. Lawyers try to break down DNA test results and make jurors question the accuracy of the evidence. DNA profiling evidence has been known to be a reliable source. So reliable that often, courts view DNA evidence as somewhat as a verdict rather than a piece of evidence. Many believe there is ample opportunity for DNA profiling technology to be taken advantage of to frame one for crime he did not commit. Dr. Tony Raymond, in charge of the forensic services for the NSW Police said People have said its easy for police to plant DNA evidence. Ive always thought its easy for a criminal to plant DNA evidence (Lynch 34). Regardless of who is planting evidence, it is possible for it to be planted. Another issue is the accuracy of DNA profiling. It was once thought that DNA profiling was 99% accurate however the accuracy depends on the machine and person analysing it. In the United States a few c harges were dismissed after judges ruled that laboratories had not conducted the tests properly. There had been some speculation over DNA evidence from the murder of Jaidyn Leski (Cole 87). The police believe that it had been contaminated not at the scene, but back at the lab. When there is doubt, DNA evidence is not always upheld. This was evident in the O.J. Simpson trial. Simpson was accused of the murders of his wife Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman, a friend of Nicole (Cole 17). Simpsons lawyers put doubt in the jurors minds through racism, bad evidence handling, and a possibility of Simpson being framed. Even though DNA testing proved that Simpson was guilty, he was acquitted of all charges. This shows that DNA evidence in everyones eyes is not valid without substantial evidence. Forensic DNA analysis is rapidly evolving. Research and development of tools that will permit crime laboratories to conduct DNA analysis quickly is vital to the goal of improving the timely analysis of DNA samples. Smaller, faster, and less costly analysis tools will reduce capital investments for c rime laboratories while increasing their capacity to process more cases. In order to increase productivity, the forensic science community has a critical need for trained forensic scientists in public crime laboratories (Forensic 13). The initiative will assist the development of comprehensive training programs for a new generation of forensic scientists, enabling new forensic scientists to receive in-depth training to prepare them for analyzing actual casework in a crime  laboratory. With the increasing mobility of national populations and concerns to curtail international crime and terrorism, the law enforcement community will desire to make databanks more readily accessible. By analogy, Canada and the United States recently developed an agreement to link their Integrated Ballistics Information System (IBIS) databases (Forensic 32). This can be done more easily than with DNA databanks, which are affected by the laws and principles of each jurisdiction surrounding the use of personal information associated with an intimate sample, such as a person’s DNA. Since the introduction of DNA evidence, it has played a key role in the investigation of crime; police now rely on DNA analysis to provide intelligence that was previously unavailable. The value of this technology has resulted in an increased expectations of impartial evidence. DNA been used in judicial reviews and its convincing ability has been used in support of both repeals and convictions (Lazer 12). Through partnerships between police and scientists, DNA analysis will continue to be regarded as the standard of excellence for the development of impartial, unbiased scientific evidence in the support of the justice system. It is the belief that DNA evidence is nearly impossible not to leave behind that scares many potential criminals. Deterring potential criminals lowers crime. DNA fingerprinting, and more recently the threat of it, not only solves crimes but also prevents them. The process of matching and identifying genes of suspect to those genes found at the scene of a crime may be seen as a violation of privacy, but it has prevented many crimes, and send many people to prison. DNA identification has saved many lives, but more importantly, prevented even the threat of many others.

Shifts in Sensibility :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  During the end of the seventeenth century and early eighteenth century a socio-political shift occurred. Sensibilities transferred from the logic of the Enlightenment, or Neo-classical Period, to those feelings and emotions of the Romantic Age.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  During the Enlightenment authors such as Molià ©re & Swift used reason and rational to present their ideas. They address broad socio-political issues with their writings. Molià ©re in his satirical work, Tartuffe, focuses upon hypocrisy within the clergy. He uses Clà ©ante to voice his argument of logic against Tartuffe throughout the play. Swift, in A Modest Proposal, uses shock therapy to motivate people into action with anger and wrath. Swift still uses the philosophy of the Enlightenment; his narrator provides sound, well-considered arguments and logic in sharing his proposal. And Swift, himself, provides us with an actual list of proposed solutions under disguise. Both authors attempted to bring about a change in society by reasoning with their audience.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When the Enlightenment ended and the Romantics took hold, logic gave way to emotions. The Romantic Poets relied upon their feelings and were driven by their passions. They were inspired by nature and by the imagination. They focused upon the uniqueness of the individual, not broad socio-political issues. Rousseau’s Confessions perfectly exemplifies the change in sensibilities. The piece focuses directly upon is unique, individual life. He relies completely on his feelings. His thoughts and longings center around his whims and fancy, not upon logic. He states that it is only objects for which he yearns which tempt and sometimes lead him to thievery. He would not consider stealing actual money, which he could use to purchase the desired items. He prefers to let the impetuous passion guide his actions. He makes tracks for Paris which he â€Å"had heard so much praised† without any money or means of support or even any real plan for such (674). Rousseau claims that he is unable to simply sit and write what comes to mind, the train of thought process. He states that his writings under such circumstances result in dense and verbose ramblings of which â€Å"[his] meaning is difficult to make out† (672). He finds it tough to organize his thoughts and opinions without adequate time to arrange his mind. Another prime example of Romantic ideals is William Woodsworth Lines Composed Above Tintern Abbey. Woodsworth delightfully captures for the reader the beloved place of his youth. Only with the reflection of age does he realize that the natural beauty lied within his imagination and the warmth of his memories.

Growing Up In a Large Family

Family, being the most basic unit of society is where the values of an individual are shaped. That is ideal of course and varies from widely from culture to culture.   In developed countries the family is mostly composed of the mother, father and the child. The number of children also varies from 1-3. That is called the nuclear family wherein a home includes no other relatives other than the first degree. However when it comes to developing countries where family ties are valued down to the farthest line such as cousins, uncles and grandparents, a family can be as large as seven to 12 people of more. In countries where the Islam religion is dominant and where the law allows for concubines, a family can be a very large. There are many advantages when it comes to growing up in a large family. For one, it is more lively and there are a lot of people who can help each other just in case the parents are busy. In cases where there are many children, as long as the parents are able to give equal love, care and financial support to each child then the family can be a host to a well rounded child. This is because even at a young age he is trained to mingle with a large crowd and build close ties with the others. The child therefore, grows to be an emotionally stable child and is well endowed with love and care. Brotherhood and sisterhood can also be cultivated in the mind of the child since he has a lot of siblings to take care of and play with. He will learn values such as teamwork and camaraderie at a young age. In addition to that, if the parents are loving enough and are effective in their parenting, the children will value sharing and fairness.  In cases where the grandparents and other relatives live with the family, then there would be a lot of adults to take care of the children and minimizing or compensating the love and attention that the parents can’t give to their child. In a nutshell, growing up in a large family can be very beneficial for the emotional status of the child.      

Essay On Sexuality In The United States - 878 Words

Sexuality in the United States Growing up in the Bronx, NY †¢ I grew up in the Bronx, NY to Puerto Ricans divorced parents. Out of 5 boroughs of NYC, this area is 4th largest. †¢ This region is known as the birthplace of hip-hop and rap culture †¢ Most of the Puerto Ricans that live in NYC resided in this borough †¢ I am the oldest of two girls and the expectations were very high. †¢ Growing up in my household, education and marriage were considered essential and a must. †¢ Sex education was a topic that was considered taboo at home and limited in schools. Sex Education in the United States †¢ In the 1800s due to an outbreak of cholera and syphilis many public campaigns began to promote the regulation of sexuality. †¢ In 1835, adolescents†¦show more content†¦Sexuality in the Media †¢ During the 1800s (Victorian Era), women were viewed as weak, dependent on their husbands, not having a sexuality or being sensual and domestic. †¢ Their main role was to serve their husbands and bear children. They didn’t know much about sex. There were strict views on gender roles and sex. †¢ Marriage was between a man and a woman only and lasted until death do them apart. The absence of birth control led to multiple pregnancies. †¢ Conservative views on sex and premarital sex were frowned upon. There was no tv shows that influence the public. †¢ The period between 1910-1919 was known as the Progressive Era and gender roles began changing between men and women. †¢ Women were becoming more economically independent as they were now working outside the home and providing for their families. †¢ The husbands were drafted into World War 1 leaving the wives to become the sole providers. †¢ Women were obtaining more freedom and rights than before. †¢ In 1916, Margaret Sanger created the American Birth Control League which later became known as PlannedShow MoreRelatedThe Importance Of Studying The Relationships And Subject Formations1688 Words   |  7 Pagesmore than likely overly wealthy, and their money isn’t being spent in the right places, the lower class people actually have more rights and advantages than the middle class because the united states love to place economic and social welfare programs in place to take care of those people. 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