Möglichkeiten und Grenzen der forensischen DNA-Analyse unter dem Gesichtspunkt verschiedener Szenarien zur Spurenentstehung. Eine Stellungnahme der gemeinsamen Spurenkommission der rechtsmedizinischen und kriminaltechnischen Institute

Vennemann, Marielle; Oppelt, Claus; Grethe, Stefanie; Anslinger, Katja; Fimmers, Rolf; Schneider, Harald; Hohoff, Carsten; Eckert, Martin; Rothaemel, Thomas and Schneider, Peter M. (2021): Möglichkeiten und Grenzen der forensischen DNA-Analyse unter dem Gesichtspunkt verschiedener Szenarien zur Spurenentstehung. Eine Stellungnahme der gemeinsamen Spurenkommission der rechtsmedizinischen und kriminaltechnischen Institute. In: Rechtsmedizin, Vol. 31, No. 5: pp. 395-404

Abstract

Over the last decades forensic DNA analysis has become an important tool in criminal investigations, aided by increasing sensitivity and a high level of technological standardization. Due to the continuing methodological improvements the successful genetic analysis of smaller and smaller latent DNA traces has been taken for granted. This leads to a shift in tasks for the forensic DNA expert regarding the evaluation of complex trace scenarios during a court trial. Rather than discussing an individual's DNA as the potential source of a DNA trace, questions put before the expert are now focussed on activities leading to potentially innocent depositions of biological material. The German Stain Commission recognizes the need to assess alternative scenarios of trace deposition. For the evaluation of forensic DNA findings within the context of further evidence in a given case scenario, we introduce the hierarchy of propositions, a well-established concept in the international literature of forensic science. Furthermore, the scientific basis of evaluating alternative DNA transfer scenarios and the possibilities and limitations of expressing an expert opinion are described.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Medicine
• Subjects: 600 Technology > 610 Medicine and health
• ISSN: 0937-9819
• Language: German