Some Ethical Issues in Forensic Genetics

Abstract

Identifying individuals, living or dead, from their genotypes can help to convict offenders or exonerate innocent suspects. It can confirm one’s presence at a crime scene or one’s place in a family tree. However, the extensive and sensitive nature of the genetic information locked in the coils of the DNA molecule also gives rise to ethical dilemmas. This chapter surveys such issues. Section 21.1 offers an overview of the major concepts in bioethics, drawing some preliminary connections to issues that arise in forensic genetics. Section 21.2 addresses the ethics of acquiring DNA samples–from crime scenes and other locations and from the bodies of individuals. Section 21.3 outlines a range of ethical concerns with DNA databanks and databases. Section 21.4 concerns efforts to infer phenotypes from genotypes to assist in criminal investigations. Section 21.5 identifies ethical concerns that arise in identifying human remains, particularly in mass disasters or conflicts. Finally, Section 21.6 discusses the professional and ethical standard for reporting forensic laboratory results and testifying about them.