DNA evidence bill proposes longer storage time

DNA evidence bill proposes longer storage time

STEPHEN DOCKERY, Associated Press

HELENA — DNA crime scene evidence needs to be stored for up to 30 years to protect wrongfully convicted criminals, according to supporters of a bill moving through the Montana Legislature.

The measure would allow people convicted of murder or rape to request that the biological evidence from their cases be preserved for up to 30 years after conviction.

Bill supporters say there are hundreds of wrongfully convicted people in jail and the current requirement of holding evidence for three years isn't enough time to clear their name.

Opposition to the measure say there is no need to hold the evidence for such a long period of time when DNA evidence testing can be done immediately.

The bill heard in a House committee Wednesday has already passed the Senate.

HELENA — DNA crime scene evidence needs to be stored for up to 30 years to protect wrongfully convicted criminals, according to supporters of a bill moving through the Montana Legislature.

The measure would allow people convicted of murder or rape to request that the biological evidence from their cases be preserved for up to 30 years after conviction.

Bill supporters say there are hundreds of wrongfully convicted people in jail and the current requirement of holding evidence for three years isn't enough time to clear their name.

Opposition to the measure say there is no need to hold the evidence for such a long period of time when DNA evidence testing can be done immediately.

The bill heard in a House committee Wednesday has already passed the Senate.