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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Special Interpretation Considerations Related to Sexual Assault Cases: Small Sperm Sample Amounts

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In situations where the amount of sperm DNA is small, only victim DNA may be detected in both the sperm and non-sperm fractions. In that case, the report may state that the victim cannot be excluded as the source of DNA from both the sperm fraction and non-sperm fraction.

Depending on laboratory policy, conclusions may or may not be reported regarding the sperm donor.

Therefore, the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.

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