In case of serious crimes: the police can assess new DNA traces

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The Federal Council has decided to enter into force on this date the revised DNA Profile Act. The most important innovation is phenotyping: characteristics such as hair and eye colour, age or biogeographical origin can also be determined in the future from DNA traces such as hair or skin particles that an offender leaves behind at the crime scene. Until now, the law only allowed the determination of the sex.

The use of phenotyping is only allowed in serious criminal offences. The list of crimes includes serious crimes against life and limb and against sexual integrity, as well as crimes under international law. To carry out a phenotyping, the police need an order from the public prosecutor’s office.

The reason was a rape in Emmen

The offense catalog also applies to the so-called search for family relationships. For example, investigating officers can reassess whether the DNA profile database contains a profile that resembles traces found at a crime scene.

The amendment to the law stems from a motion by National Councilor Albert Vitali (FDP/LU), who passed away in 2020. He had submitted the request after the rape of a young woman in Emmen LU in July 2015. As part of the investigation, a bulk DNA sample was taken from more than 370 men.

The alleged perpetrator’s DNA was secured at the crime scene, but investigators were denied access to the full genetic information due to a lack of legal basis. The woman who was ripped off her bicycle during the robbery suffered serious injuries. (SDA)

Source:Blick