Understanding DNA

M.W. Perlin, "Understanding DNA", Pennsylvania Conference of State Trial Judges, Philadelphia, PA, 26-Feb-2016.

Talk

PowerPoint presentation with live audio recording of Dr. Perlin's talk.

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Abstract

In 2009, the National Academy of Sciences reported flaws in current crime lab practices. While touted as the gold standard, DNA evidence often shares the same interpretation issues of examination bias, lack of scientific foundation, and an absence of meaningful validation studies. This program introduces scientific and legal issues surrounding DNA evidence and its interpretation. Faculty will discuss Commonwealth v. Kevin Foley, the 2009 case that first used TrueAllele computer interpretation of DNA mixture evidence, and a subsequent Superior Court ruling that established a Pennsylvania TrueAllele precedent.