Minister Van Weel: “Currently, approximately 87% of convicts who fall under the scope of the DNA-V Act have a DNA profile recorded in the DNA database. By advancing the moment of collection of cellular material, this is expected to rise to 96%. This can lead to more cases being solved because DNA found at a crime scene can potentially be linked to the DNA profile of a convict.”
Currently, cellular material is collected after someone has been convicted of a serious crime. However, some convicts do not show up and are untraceable, meaning their DNA material cannot be included in the database. This proposal advances the moment of collection: during the investigation, when someone is suspected of a serious crime. This does not mean it can be used directly for DNA research. The cellular material is stored in a separate secured environment after collection and is not yet processed in the database. A DNA profile is only established and processed in the DNA database after someone has been convicted. If that does not happen, the cellular material will be destroyed.
The Council of State has advised on this proposal, after which several amendments have been made. It is now set for consideration in the House of Representatives and the Senate.