The Future of DNA

We all know or have heard of innocent people being released from prison after DNA testing; according to the Innocence Project there have been 192 such cases since the question first arose. But how reliable is DNA and what is its future?

The answer to the first question is highly reliable BUT if and only if proper procedures are followed to avoid contamination. Recent cases have called into question DNA results where 3rd party DNA appeared on the evidence which could not be identified; these cases resulted in reversals because the DNA did not disclose this fact to the defense. Where does this 3rd party DNA come from? Who knows really but probably from someone who handled the petri dish containing the sample or someone at the factory who assembled the kit in the first place.

But this does seem to cast some doubt on DNA evidence. Is it enough to be reasonable? Probably not. One can imagine a future in which the role of defense counsel is reduced as criminal trials become a battle of scientific experts. Within the next 20 years I predict there will be a national DNA data bank. Why then bother with a trial at all: DNA match and summary punishment. Orwell could not have imagined worse.