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According to experts, due to the growing number of DNA samples from convicted criminals, the DNA Database is expanding and will get more “hits” as it does. During a Parliamentary select committee on science, MP’s were told that the expanded database would result in an increase in the number of matches made between the profiles of convicted criminals and samples taken from crime scenes. "The number of links will go up," said ESR's forensics general manager, Keith Bedford. Parliament is currently reviewing a Criminal Investigations (Bodily Samples) Amendment Bill which is will increase the collection and use of DNA samples in police investigations. According to Dr Bedford, this will enable police to collect DNA from people they "intend to charge", and cross check it with DNA samples from unsolved crimes. Currently, DNA can only be collected with consent, or in cases where suspects are convicted of an offence punishable by more than 7 years. This has resulted in fewer than 100,000 DNA profiles in the DNA databank - including more than 8000 unidentified profiles from crime scenes. The new law would allow police to test and store the DNA profile of every single person charged with serious offences. From aggravated assault, to peeping, committing an indecent act in a public place, unlawful possession of a firearm, and cruelty to a child. The result is that the 62% match rate from the existing store of voluntary samples is the highest in the world. This hit rate is probably so high due to the size of the country, the smaller population and the fact that the police know many of the criminals. In comparison to 2.3% of New Zealand’s population being on the database, the UK has a database of 5% with the second highest link rate of 52%. Date: April 2009
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