NYPD alters how it collects DNA from children and certain suspects
Facing pressure from civil rights groups, the NYPD announced Thursday that it will change the way officers collect DNA from people accused of a crime or called in for questioning, while establishing stricter guidelines for obtaining genetic samples from children.
The new policies include creating a consent form, amending the NYPD patrol guide and instructing the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which maintains the city’s vast DNA database, to remove samples collected without a court order.
“As a department, we have reformed policies and practices to support a system that is fair and effective while also cultivating trust with the community,” said Police Commissioner Dermot Shea. “These changes are common sense and incorporate feedback we have gathered without compromising the ability for officers to successfully identify criminals, build strong cases and bring justice for victims.”