Important ruling on police keeping DNA records?
Jus another number | 23.03.2006 12:05
As I understand it the police routinely take DNA samples when people are arrested and do not destroy these even if you subsequently released without charge (let alone found not guilty if brought to court). Now see this which has just been reported by the BBC.
Teacher wins police DNA battle
A teacher accused of hitting a child with a ruler, but never prosecuted, has won a legal battle to have her DNA sample and fingerprints destroyed.
Philippa Jones, from Birmingham, was arrested in June last year following allegations she hit a boy aged eight.
The High Court said her DNA sample, fingerprints and photograph should have been destroyed within 28 days.
She will also receive £250 damages from West Midlands Police for false imprisonment and assault.
So do they now have to destroy all DNA records of those not prosecuted? Would this also apply to those who are prosecuted but found not guilty?
If anybody knows the answer please let us know. If not I'll make further investigations.
Jus another number