The Impact of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Evidence on the Prosecution of Sexual Assault Cases: A Legal Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajsl.v4i2.4160Keywords:
Accused, Conviction, Evidence, Prosecution, Sexual Assault, TrialAbstract
Prosecution of sexual assault cases has long been plagued by problems, which often hinge on the availability and reliability of evidence. The last few decades have seen Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) evidence transforming the legal landscape, offering a powerful tool both for prosecution and defence. This paper addresses the effect of DNA evidence in prosecution against sexual assault from the perspective of law and their use in enhancing the accuracy of investigation as well as the integrity of judicial outcome. An examination of historical development, legal frameworks, and case studies - explains how DNA evidence has changed the standards of proof in sexual assault prosecution, resulting in increased conviction rates and wrongful exoneration of wrongly accused persons. This paper, while contributing towards a better understanding of the subject by dealing with issues and challenges faced by DNA evidence, such as problems of contamination, chain of custody problems, and ethical considerations of privacy, also tends to illustrate the two-edged sword nature of DNA evidence. It requires more advancement in forensic science. However, it must also be accompanied by robust legal safeguards for both the victim and the accused. From this, it follows that DNA evidence is vital for the successful prosecution of sexual assault.
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