posted by Justice on Jul 15
Innocence Project Co-Director Peter Neufeld writes today in the Tennessean that federal oversight and support for forensic science would vastly improve the justice system in the United States and help prevent wrongful convictions. A National Institute of Forensic Science is a vital step toward strengthening our criminal justice system
New National Institute Would Help Improve Forensic Science
Innocence Project Co-Director Peter Neufeld writes today in the Tennessean that federal oversight and support for forensic science would vastly improve the justice system in the United States and help prevent wrongful convictions.
A National Institute of Forensic Science is a vital step toward strengthening our criminal justice system. When an innocent person is wrongfully convicted, the actual perpetrator remains free to commit additional crimes. That's exactly what happened in Memphis after Clark McMillan was wrongfully convicted – during the 22 years he was in prison before DNA proved his innocence, the actual perpetrator went on to commit several additional rapes.
In the months ahead, Congress will seriously consider how to structure a national institute. U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon, D-Tenn., will play a key role in this as the chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology.
Read Neufeld’s op-ed here. (The Tennessean, 07/13/09)
Do you want to join the call for federal forensic reform in the U.S.? Visit the Just Science Coalition website to sign the petition for reform and to learn more about the recommendations.
Tags: , law, Innocence Project
