Danger of DNA in Oklahoma Criminal Cases
DO YOU KNOW HOW YOUR DNA SHOWED UP IN A SPECIFIC PLACE 15 YEARS AGO?
YOU MAY GO TO PRISON FOR LIFE IF YOU CAN’T EXPLAIN!
The following true story is frightening on so many levels.
A young mans’ freedom rested on knowing why his DNA showed up in an apartment 15 years ago—15 years ago! Luckily he was able to provide an alibi—again from 15 years ago. From sitting on a couch or shaving, or drinking a glass a water 15 years ago the police developed a drawing of a man and then made it their mission to tie him to a horrible murder.
In 2004, a young lady was living in South Tulsa when someone broke in, raped, and strangled her. No one has ever been arrested and police long believed DNA found in the apartment belonged to the killer. This person was the primary suspect for 15 years.
A police lab used the DNA to create a Forensic Composite Drawing of what the suspect may have looked like and officers got dozens of tips. One tip led them to a local man and his DNA was a match.
However, police have confirmed that the evidence was wrong. The man had spent the night at the apartment with a friend of the young lady, which is why his DNA was there. An investigation of his alibi cleared that man.
Can you imagine what would have happened to this man if he couldn’t remember where he was 15 years ago? His is extremely fortunate.
Accusation or easy and this showcases the limit of the reliability of DNA evidence. It is not proof positive.
It also reinforces why we as citizens are supposed to be presumed innocent, and why the burden of proving otherwise should be entirely the burden of the prosecutors.
If you or a loved one is accused of a crime, don’t hesitate to contact the Edge Law Firm today. We’re ready to help you tell your story.
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