Pryce: Swift Justice Relies on Timely DNA Evidence

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-OH) issued the following statements today regarding the passing of H.R. 3214, Advancing Justice through DNA Technology Act of 2003:

“Through the increased and improved use of DNA evidence, law enforcement officials will be able to better identify criminals while protecting the innocent in all types of criminal cases. 

“Across the country, states are experiencing unprecedented backlogs in analyzing DNA evidence.  Delays in processing evidence are unacceptable and rob our system of the accuracy and efficiency necessary to identify the innocent, punish the perpetrators, and provide justice to all victims.    

“As a former judge and a prosecutor, I understand the value of swift, accurate justice in all criminal cases.  I wholeheartedly support this bill that would ultimately improve the justice system for all Americans.”  

The act would provide $1 billion during a five year period for a comprehensive package of programs that would assist Federal and State authorities in solving crimes and protect the innocent through the increased use of DNA technology.  The bill includes provisions for a new version of the Innocence Protection Act, which would reduce the risk that innocent persons receive capital punishment by ensuring competent legal services in capital cases, improving the use of DNA evidence, and increasing compensation for wrongfully convicted individuals.    

H.R. 3214 provides $755 million to help enact an initiative to reduce the backlogs of unanalyzed DNA samples in rape evidence kits.    

Congresswoman Pryce represents the Fifteenth District of Ohio, which includes Western Franklin County, Madison, and Union counties.  She serves as Chairman of the House Republican Conference for the 108^th Congress, making her the fourth ranking member of House leadership.