Manhattan Prosecutors Have Indicted 117 DNA Samples
Prosecutors in New York City have indicted 117 DNA samples, an effort that began with the aim of avoiding time limits in prosecutions for rape.
Prosecutors came up with the idea almost 10 years ago when they had a DNA profile but no suspect in the 1993 rape of a college student, the New York Times reports. They indicted the DNA profile, and found the suspect, Victor Rondon, four years later. He was convicted and sentenced to 44 to 107 years in prison, according to the story.
Out of the 117 indictments obtained by prosecutors, 18 were linked to suspects, the story says. Thirteen have resulted in convictions and five cases are pending.
The strategy is used in many states, including Arkansas, Michigan and Delaware, and for a variety of crimes.
Forensic expert Frederick Bieber told the Times that New York officials have taken the lead in using DNA to solve crimes. “Law enforcement around the world has learned to collect DNA from property crimes, which often leads to convictions for major crimes,” he said.
New York State now takes DNA samples from anyone convicted of a felony and 35 types of misdemeanors.
