4 January 2006
The use of DNA to solve crime has quadrupled over the last five years, according to a report published today.
The National DNA Database now holds over 3 million samples, making it easier for police to solve serious crimes.
In a typical month, police are able to use the database to identify suspects for 21 murders, 61 rapes and other sexual offences, and over 3,300 motor vehicle and drug crimes.
Police are able to use new powers introduced last year to take and retain DNA samples and fingerprints from people arrested for recordable offences.
"The UK is a world leader in the use of DNA to detect crime" says Home Office Minister Andy Burnham.
"The government’s significant investment of £241 million has enabled the police to make use of ever-improving DNA technology at crime scenes".
The DNA Expansion Programme has trebled the number of profiles held on the database and provided funding for an additional 600 crime scene staff.
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