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Posted: Wed 7:47 AM, Sep 19, 2012
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DNA Sample Collection

Posted Wednesday, September 19, 2012 --- 7:45 a.m.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The Wisconsin Department of Justice wants to cast a wider net for collecting DNA samples.

Current state law requires DNA collection from anyone convicted of a felony. The DOJ wants to expand that to anyone arrested for a felony and all adults convicted of misdemeanors.

While about 12,000 samples are currently collected each year, the proposal would push that number to around 68,000. Justice officials say the proposed expansion would help solve more cases and quickly get criminals off the streets.

American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin chief Chris Ahmuty tells the State Journal (http://tinyurl.com/8gmymam ) the expansion "turns the presumption of innocence on its head." Ahmuty says if no charges are filed or there's an acquittal, it raises concerns about how the DNA sample could be used in the future.

Copyright 2012: Associated Press

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  • by WIBadger on Sep 20, 2012 at 09:47 AM
    This is BAD POLICY and I do not support governor Walker or the Atty General on this issue (and it was BAD POLICY when introduced by Doyle, too). I'm all for using DNA samples for POST-CONVICTIONS -- but not for simple ARRESTS. Our government leaders are forgetting that an individual is innocent until proven guilty. To take a DNA sample upon ARREST (ie, no conviction) is to merely invade the privacy rights of the individual. Heck, if you believe otherwise, why not permit the government to take a DNA sample upon birth? The WI DOJ has reversed its position on this issue and it should trouble all WI citizens. I suggest that everyone write a polite letter to the governor urging him to deep-six this proposal.
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  • by skippy Location: fitchburg on Sep 19, 2012 at 10:51 AM
    Let's ad those receiving government benefits too.
    [ Report Abuse ]

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