Extending the Time to Collect DNA in Sexual Assault Cases

Using the current standard DNA profiling method, many jurisdictions require the collection of evidentiary samples within 3 days of the sexual assault. However, a pilot study, funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice (NIJ) examined the ability of extending this window of time for collecting evidence with Y-STR DNA profiling. The research team was able to obtain complete Y-STR profiles on samples collected as many as 5 days after coitus and a partial profile at 6 days. However, the study involved only three consenting male-female couples. A new NIJ funded study will include 150 consenting male-female couples. The large study will expand knowledge about the limits of DNA profiling in sexual assault cases. 3 notes and 1 figure