Question.2221 - For senior seminar you are expected to complete an in-depth piece of work. You will need to research your chosen topic and collect releva nt source material. For this class, to facilitate this,Iwant you to outine the subject that you want to write about If you want to write on something thatis not included under Essay Questions - please email me so we can discuss other possibilities. Attached is the Essay Assignment 1 Sheet to fill in. This needs to be completed by 7127 - end of the day. 5 points You can use the Discussion Board questions as a guide to help you formulate your subject focus.
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Introduction The Golden State Killer case was a spine-chilling case in America that caused the death of 12 people and the sexual assault of 50 people from 1974 to 1986. However, the suspect was caught with the help of advanced DNA analysis. In this thesis, we will discuss the factors regarding the advanced DNA analysis that lead to the arrest of The Golden State Killer (Hoffman, 2018). Also, a demonstration regarding the use and misuse of genetic information and data and how it is accessible to any authority as long as they comply with the legal documents will be provided. Along with a descriptive explanation regarding the importance of biological pieces of evidence in criminal cases obtained by the forensic department of the authorities. Discussion The suspect was widely known by several names such as the Visalia ransacker and even called the East Area Rapist. It was a horrific fact that the criminal himself was a former policeman named Joseph DeAngelo and was held accountable for the crimes he committed at the age of 72 in 2018 at his home located in Citrus Heights, Sacramento County. Although, the entire process of his arrest was also bizarre. He was caught with the help of a DNA sample from a tissue that was found in the trash can. The DNA was then sent for further analysis and the investigators found a match in the database of genealogy. This is a perfect example to demonstrate how influential DNA tests and analysis can be and can be used for various purposes that can often be considered a violation of the code or the right to privacy. Any person shares 50% of their DNA with their siblings and 25% with their relatives and with modern technology and advancements in the Genealogy field. Various agencies offer DNA analysis for people to determine if they are blood-related or even to find out about their ancestors and family tree. A DNA report can give access to information regarding your DNA and even about your family tree and ancestry. although this information can also affect your family relations (Selk, 2018). The investigation team that was responsible for the arrest of Joseph DeAngelo the Golden State Killer by harnessing the DNA and genetic database information of the public that is available. From a public viewpoint, it can be perceived as an exploitation of genetic information. This information can be used against any individual for their benefit. The arrest of DeAngelo was accomplished by acquiring information about his family tree through his relatives. The methods used by the investigating team were perceived as illegitimate or unethical due to the exploitation of sensitive data and private information. However, this led to the arrest of the criminal, and sentenced to 26 years of imprisonment. The DNA analysis report helped the investigation team to arrest the criminal although it was also seen as irresponsible of the agencies to provide access to the authority without any assurance of privacy (John, 2020). DNA analysis in the forensic department of police has always been effective in terms of acquiring evidence and suspects. However, using the database as a source of information to locate the suspect is observed unethical. Biological evidence holds a major importance in any criminal case and it is necessary to apply the required method to obtain strong biological evidence against the suspect. If the evidence matches the DNA of the suspect, it can be assured as solid evidence for proof that the culprit is responsible or guilty. Conclusion This thesis concludes how the information regarding a person's DNA can be used for various purposes and can be harmful to them if it goes into the wrong hands. The important role of DNA analysis in the arrest of the Golden State Killer. The information received by the investigating team through the database of DNA reports and genealogy and its possible consequences. Lastly a brief explanation on the importance of biological evidence and forensic reports in similar criminal cases. Reference Avi Selk, (2018), Most disturbing part, Retrieved from:https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/golden-state-killer-suspect-arrest-search-warrant-disturbing-a8381721.html Jan Hoffman, (2018), Serial killers, Retrieved from:https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/26/health/serial-killers-golden-state.html John, (2020), untold story, Retrieved from:https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-12-08/man-in-the-window#:~:text=The%20dramatic%20arrest%20in%202018,to%20trace%20their%20family%20trees.More Articles From Science