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 21 August 2008 21:29 BST

DNA breakthrough to boost crime detection

Wednesday, 04 Oct 2006 12:38
'DNAboost' could see old cases reopened

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A new technique developed by the Forensic Science Service (FSS) could have a major impact on crime detection rates.

Entitled 'DNAboost', the process allows investigators to better determine the origin of mixed or poor quality DNA samples.

If pilot schemes in West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, Humberside and Northumbria are successful, the new technique could be rolled out nationwide.

It is hoped that it could help distinguish between samples taken from a surface that a number of people had touched or when only a very small sample of DNA had been collected.

"We've been able to demonstrate an increased rate of interpretation even in those areas that have proved traditionally most difficult – fragments of cellular submissions," said Paul Hackett, DNA manager at the FSS.

"This means a great many more cases have the potential to be solved and a great many more families could look forward to securing justice."

The FSS said that the new technique could boost crime detection by 15 per cent and also allow police to reopen previously unsolved cases.

The pilot scheme will run for three months.
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