A serial murder case that’s broken open in Kansas City could let an important criminal investigation bill break free in the Legislature. Senator Matt Bartle of Lee’s Summit wants to raise money for additional DNA testing by tacking some fees onto fines for felonies, misdemeanors and traffic tickets. The money would be used to get DNA seamples from felons now in prison and from people convicted of felonies later. DNA taken from 12 victims of Kansas City murders as long as a decade ago have led to an arrest. Bartle says DNA evidence is the key to solving crimes that police lacked the science to solve in the past. The bill is waiting for debate in the House. Bartle says the House floor leader is showing interest in getting the bill up for debate in the last three weeks of the session. Bartle expects some changes to be made, but he hopes the House does not endanger the bill by adding several other anti-crime bills to it.
