Faster Forensics: The Promise and Risks of Rapid DNA Technology

It is often the case with new technology that as time passes performing complex tasks becomes faster and cheaper. In the high stakes of forensic science in criminal justice, however, that does not necessarily mean they get better. Perhaps the most potentially impactful of recent innovations in forensic science is the advent of “Rapid DNA” – a technology utilizing smaller, cheaper analytical machines that can be used outside of the typical controlled laboratory setting to process DNA tests. But now that DNA technology can be easily acquired and used by police departments and other entities outside of a controlled laboratory setting, a host of new questions about quality control and accuracy emerge. Our distinguished panel will explore these questions and others raised by integrating new science into our criminal justice system. Ross Miller Quattrone Center Research Manager, University of Pennsylvania Law School Director Frederick Harran Director of Public Safety, Bensalem Township Police Department (Bucks County, PA) Dr. Peter Stout CEO/President, Houston Forensic Science Center Dr. Greg Hampikian Professor of Biology and Criminal Justice; Director of the Idaho Innocence Project, Boise State University