The FBI maintains a DNA database called the "Combined DNA Index System" which is more commonly termed CODIS. This federal system allows law enforcement agencies across the nation, including in the State of Texas, to match biological evidence found at crime scenes against this database to assist in identifying perpetrators. In Texas, all of those who are convicted of felony crimes, sex offenses, and all juvenile offenders are required to give a sample, and this DNA sample becomes part of the information available to law enforcement across the country on CODIS.
Unsolved crimes have finally been solved through a DNA match and the use of the CODIS system. The Texas state agency, the Department of Public Safety announced that as of Wednesday, December 12, 2012, they had found viable suspects in 10,000 open cases through DNA matching.
Any person that is picked up for any crime could be impacted by the use of this system. It remains true that finding DNA at a crime scene does not necessarily mean that the person is guilty – DNA can be present for many reasons other than criminal actions. If you are under investigation for a crime, or have been contacted by law enforcement about a "cold case," it is imperative that you get legal representation from a high quality criminal lawyer before answering any questions.
Your future freedom could literally be at stake. Texas is known for its harsh penalties, and the high numbers of executions. Innocent people serve time in our state as well. Our highly aggressive law enforcement agencies take pride in convicting those they believe are responsible for criminal acts. You need an equally aggressive defense lawyer fighting for you at every step of the process. It could not be a more urgent matter.
Get help from Fort Bend criminal lawyer John L. Venza, Jr., accomplished defense counsel with a background as an Assistant District Attorney.