New RI law for DNA samples

By: Rebecca Turco

Email: rturco@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE – A controversial new law is on the books in Rhode Island, requiring people who have been arrested for violent crimes to provide DNA samples.

Before, only convicted felons had to submit samples. Violent crimes as listed under the new law include murder, robbery and sexual assault.

The attorney general and multiple law enforcement agencies feel this will improve the state's database to potentially help solve cold cases and exonerate innocent people. “We certainly appreciate the fact that we have an additional weapon in the arsenal,” explained Warwick Police Chief Col. Stephen McCartney.

Rhode Island’s chapter of the ACLU, however, begs to differ, feeling this law takes away the presumption of innocence. “These are individuals who haven't been before a judge, haven't had their day in court, and are having their DNA collected and run as if they are hardened criminals,” Hillary Davis, policy associate, told ABC6 News.

There are cases where the DNA samples would be eliminated, such as if a suspect is found to be innocent or if the case is dropped. Convicted people can also appeal to have their samples removed from the system if they meet certain criteria.

© WLNE-TV 2015