Aggregated News
A bipartisan bill has been introduced that would require mandatory DNA testing on people convicted of eight misdemeanors in Colorado.
The bill's supporters said at a news conference Tuesday that it would help catch criminals in unsolved crimes and exonerate those falsely accused of crimes.
Those who commit one of the eight misdemeanors are more likely to commit more violent crimes, said Denver District Attorney Mitch Morrissey.
Already, DNA testing is mandatory for convicted felons and in sexual assault cases.
The bill's primary sponsors are Rep. Dan Pabon, D-Denver, and Rep. Polly Lawrence, R-Roxborough Park. They have about three weeks to shepherd the bill through the legislature.
The ACLU of Colorado will oppose the bill, said Denise Maes, the organization's public policy director. Law enforcement officials continue to find reasons to test people's DNA, and there is no end in sight, she said.
"The notion the government gets to keep your genetic code in perpetuity is frightening," she said.
The misdemeanors that would require testing if the bill passes are:
• Third-degree assault
• Menacing
• Reckless endangerment...