Gov. Bev Perdue will sign a bill that will expand N.C.’s criminal DNA testing system. Supports say this bill will prevent crime and solve cold cases. Those who oppose say the bills amounts to unreasonable search and seizure and Rep. Rosa Gill says that obtaining samples from suspects that have not been convicted – goes too far.
Beginning in February, the bill directs police to take DNA samples of suspects charged with murder, rape and other serious crimes. Samples will be entered into state DNA database to see if the person may be linked to any other crimes. The DNA will be deleted if the person is acquitted or the charges are dismissed.
The state currently takes samples when a person is convicted of a felony.
