A new proposal to take DNA samples at time of arrest.
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A new proposal to take DNA samples at time of arrest.

Date: January 22, 2007
By: Fanna Haile-Selassie
State Capitol Bureau

Intro: Missouri democrats are emphasizing a new DNA proposal that will give police a new tool to catch criminals. RunTime:
OutCue: SOC A new bill is being drafted to expand the rules of taking DNA samples from convicted offenders to taking DNA samples from offenders while under arrest, but not convicted. The bill also proposes to take DNA samples from convicted juveniles that would remain on their record into adulthood. Several legislatures predict that this bill could cause some constitutional debates, including the House Crime Committee Chair Republican Mark Bruns.
Actuality:  BRUNS.WAV
Run Time: 00:05
Description: I'd say that if we did pass it that there would be a court challenge to it. 


Bruns also saw some problems that would arise with keeping juvenile DNA records into adulthood.

Democrat John Burnett from Kansas City will be the sponsor of the bill. 

From the state Capitol, I'm Fanna Haile-Selassie

Intro: Democrats have four new proposals to push their agenda of Moving Missouri Forward. Fanna Haile-Selassie has more from the Capitol. RunTime:
OutCue: SOC

The most talked about subject coming out of the Missouri House Democratic Caucus is the proposal to allow police to take DNA samples from arrested people and convicted juveniles. 

Currently, police can only take DNA samples after the convictions of adults; police can't take DNA from juvenile offenders.

Democratic Representative John Burnett from Kansas City is the sponsor of the proposal.

 

Actuality:  BURNETT.WAV
Run Time: 00:08
Description: I think it is a very valuable tool for the law enforcement community, but it also benefits the individual.
 
 
Another proposal that was introduced would reduce high-speed police chases by using GPS locaters.
 
The third proposal would increase care and reimbursement to doctors involving child sex abuse.
 
The last proposal would re-introduce Erika's Law that would expand the definition of first degree murder to include heinous killings of a child.
 
From the state Capitol, I'm Fanna Haile-Selassie