Solving sexual assault cases using DNA mixture evidence

M.W. Perlin, "Solving sexual assault cases using DNA mixture evidence", National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), National Institute of Justice, Pittsburgh, PA, 14-Mar-2018.

Talk

PowerPoint presentation of Dr. Perlin's talk.

The presentation can also be viewed at SAKI's webinar page (requires registration).

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Abstract

Different crime labs have different sexual assault success rates. Some labs identify perpetrators on over 50% of rape kits, others just 25%. This variation is often due to how lab data are interpreted. Computer-based TrueAllele® mixture interpretation is a way of increasing success, using all the DNA data for criminal justice.

The fully Bayesian TrueAllele technology is the most accurate and objective way to get match results from DNA evidence. TrueAllele information assists cold case sexual assault investigations and prosecutions, and defends the wrongfully accused and convicted.

Forensic failure has consequences, harming victims of crime and innocent defendants. But DNA success brings justice. This presentation highlights how TrueAllele helps complete what crime labs start. Criminal case examples include serial rape, incest rape, human trafficking, college rape and rape exoneration. Advanced DNA databases can prevent rape by catching criminals before they commit more crimes.