4/19/04 Globe: DNA is saliva and mucous from runny nose

[BlueCrab]

You mean as opposed to ST and BPD publicizing evidence that should have remained private until the trial?

They all leaked like rusty buckets, but I personally think it's a good thing. The public, by way of tips, probably solves more crimes than does professional law enforcement, even though the cops get all the credit for it. For instance, if the grand jury transcripts were released to the public, IMO the Ramsey murder would likely be solved before the end of the year.

Criminal evidence should be made available to be examined by the public except in specific instances ordered by the court.

JMO

 

[LovelyPigeon]

Shylock, I wanted to respond to your post #50 on this thread where you cited a news article about saliva on a cigarette butt that was used 3 years after a crime to gain a DNA profile. This snip of article preceded the article you cited:

'Techniques have improved'
Anthony Russell QC, prosecuting, said at the time of the murder the butt was tested but there were insufficient deposits of DNA.
But he said: "However in the years that have elapsed since 1995 the techniques have improved considerably and the sensitivity of the technique has dramatically increased.
Shylock #50
"In late 1999 further DNA tests were carried out and it was possible to obtain a DNA profile from the cigarette end.
"The profile was compared to a profile taken of the defendant and they matched in every particular that was capable of being examined."
Mr Russell said the DNA supported the assertion that the cigarette butt had come from the defendant.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/newsid_969000/969370.stm
The DNA couldn't be distinguished by tests available in 1995. It wasn't until 1999 that new testing with improved methodology was able to reveal a profile.

Furthermore, there is this statement: ...matched in every particular that was capable of being examined." which may indicate less than a full profile of 13 markers was obtained from the saliva on the cigarette.