Tenn., 24 other states don't save DNA evidence

[flashl]

Extra costs, storage space for the critical material pose obstacles

By KEVIN JOHNSON • USA Today • August 7, 2008

Half the states lack requirements to preserve DNA evidence, despite a series of dramatic exonerations based on the critical biological material, according to state records and lawmakers.

Evidence preservation has been the key to freeing more than 200 wrongfully convicted prisoners, according to the Innocence Project, a New York-based group that works to free the innocent based on DNA testing.

Tennessee does not have a state law that DNA evidence must be saved.

"What that typically means is that it's a patchwork plan that varies from city to city and county to county," said Eric Ferrero, Innocence Project spokesman. "Having a statewide standard ensures that evidence is preserved."

Even as exonerations have mounted, there is broad disagreement over how long and under what conditions the evidence should be maintained.

Yet, the Feds stores DNA on 3 Million Americans. OTOH, States REQUIRE individuals to provide DNA for misdemeanors! :shrug:

[GreenPartyVoter]

1. I had no idea!