By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – All Missouri felons would have to provide
genetic samples for a law enforcement database under proposed legislation.
The legislation would expand Missouri's current DNA sex offender profiling system. It allows for testing in felony murder cases, assaults and sex offenses.
Lawmakers believe the program could lead to more convictions, because of the ability of law enforcement to tap into the proposed statewide database -- and link those already convicted of crimes to
other offenses.
Law enforcement officials say the law also could be used to exonerate those already convicted of crimes.
The Illinois Legislature approved a similar measure earlier this year that requires felons to submit genetic evidence to the state police. Governor George Ryan has signed the bill into law.