State Rep. Says New DNA Collection Law Solving Crimes

Monday, August 20th, 2018 9:21am

By Mike Perleberg @mikedup84

Collection of DNA from people arrested for felonies in Indiana has helped solve more than 200 cases this year.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - A new Indiana law is giving police the power to collect DNA samples from anyone suspected of a felony.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 30 states currently have some form of state DNA collection upon arrest, as does the federal government. Indiana become one of them this year.

State Representative Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) says the law will help identify serial offenders.

“Prior to the new law, a DNA sample could only be taken upon conviction for a felon,” Steuerwald said. “This has developed into one of the most important crime-solving tools we gave law enforcement.”

Since the law took effect in January, it has helped solve more than 200 crimes, including murders and sexual assaults.

A person's DNA sample is removed from the system if charges against them are dropped or they're found not guilty.

The samples go into a nationwide database called CODIS, or Combined DNA Index System. It lets federal, state and local law enforcement officials compare evidence to help close more cases.

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Pioneer Day BBQ
Free food and games! Come celebrate Pioneer Day on Saturday, July 24th at 11:00am with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; 6168 Martha Dr N, Aurora, IN 47001. Free food will include hot dogs, hamburgers, sides and drinks. Free games include a kickball game, sack races, rock throwing competition, badminton, and kubb. Bring a friend and have some fun!
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Overlooking the Ohio River in Aurora, the beautiful Hillforest Victorian House Museum was built in 1855 for industrialist Thomas Graff. Its unique shape is said to be inspired by steamboats of the 19th century. The site has been operating as a historic house museum since 1956 and is one of 11 National Historic Landmarks in southern Indiana. Hillforest opens for tours today and hosts many special events throughout the season. Overlooking the Ohio River in Aurora, the beautiful Hillforest Victorian House Museum was built in 1855 for industrialist Thomas Graff. Its unique shape is said to be inspired by steamboats of the 19th century. The site has been operating as a historic house museum since 1956 and is one of 11 National Historic Landmarks in southern Indiana. Hillforest open NOW…Tuesday - Friday, 11 AM - 3 PM (last tour begins at 2:15 PM) and Saturday and Sunday, 1 - 5 PM (last tour begins at 4:15 PM). (Closed major holidays). Available for special events and teas!
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