DNA Assignment

1) Evaluate Fourth Amendment issues as they relate to the collection of DNA evidence, specifically in reference to search and seizure issues.

2) Select one of the following DNA-related criminal cases listed below. Briefly summarize the case and critique its relevance to the Fourth amendment reasonableness test, particularly as it relates to post-conviction DNA collection.

• Wilson v. Collins- http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/08a0088p-06.pdf
• United States v. Weikert- http://www.ca1.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/getopn.pl?OPINION=06-1861.01A
• United States v. Amerson- http://caselaw.findlaw.com/us-2nd-circuit/1267576.html
• United States v. Pool- https://epic.org/amicus/pool/
• United States v. Mitchell- http://www2.ca3.uscourts.gov/opinarch/094718p.pdf

3) What is Junk DNA? Analyze the possible evidentiary value of Junk DNA.

4) Utilizing the State Law research tool on the Innocence Project Website, select a current State and review the current status of the State’s compensation laws, DNA access laws, and State laws requiring a recorded interrogation. Provide a brief analysis of your research from the State of your choosing.