News

 

Theft of samples for DNA testing now a criminal offence

 

New legislation has made it a criminal offence to take a tissue sample either left by or from an individual in order to perform a DNA test unless that individual has given prior consent, or unless the test is undertaken for a medical or a lawful investigative purpose. Using powers in the Human Tissue Act, the Courts can now impose a maximum three-year prison sentence if anyone holds or tests DNA samples without such authority.

 

Full story in bjhc&im October 2006 (269 words)

 

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