(419 kb)
(419 kb)
When the DNA Identification Act was enacted in 1998, a national DNA
data bank was established. The data bank contains samples and profiles collected
from crime scenes and from offenders convicted of designated offences. DNA,
or deoxyribonucleic acid, is found in chromosomes and carries genetic information.
These DNA profiles can be cross-referenced
to identify repeat offenders and eliminate suspects.
DNA samples can be taken from an offender only after conviction and only for designated serious offences. The samples and profiles taken from adult convicted offenders are retained indefinitely, while those collected from young offenders are destroyed after a set period of time, depending on the offence.
The DNA Identification Act came into force on June 30, 2000.