Senate Considers Expanded Use Of DNA In Criminal Trials

Members of a State Senate committee are considering a bill that would demand more use of DNA evidence in criminal trials. The bill is spurred by the exonerations of more than 100 people nationwide through DNA evidence. Nearly all ended up in prison, because of eyewitness accounts. University of Missouri law professor Rodney Uphoff says its a national problem. He says eyewitnesses can be wrong, even when completely convinced of the testimoney they give. He says Missouri would benefit greatly by expanding its DNA data base, because it would protect the state against wrongful imprisonment lawsuits and ensure Missourians the right people are behind bars.