Forensic Genetics as a Tool for Forensic Investigation at the Crime Scene

Abstract

The 21st century will bring us, as the 20th century brought us the specialization of forensic medicine, an increasing integration of subspecialties. The importance of DNA testing in the forensic field as a method of identification lies in its potential applicability to solve many cases that would be difficult to clarify by conventional investigative procedures and in the very high reliability of its results, only comparable with dactyloscopic expertise. The application of this profile allows the use of any fluid from the same person since it presents the same genetic code regardless of where the print comes from such as blood, saliva, semen, hair, sweat. The present research consists of a descriptive investigation that started with a transversal observational study of the application of DNA expertise for identification purposes. A bibliographic review of specialized sources on the subject was carried out, and an assessment was made of the importance of the application of DNA expertise as evidence in criminal proceedings and its impact on due process. It was analyzed the vulnerabilities that threaten the quality of the expertise and how the evaluation of the evidence can be thundered doubtful or inconclusive if the established protocols are not fulfilled, in addition the importance and perspectives of the genetic bank for forensic purposes were widely discussed, as well as the care to be taken by the risks that this has if the security measures provided for this purpose are not met.