Image by NCI GeneticsJared Vaughn, a Florida man, was charged with rape. He purchased a consumer DNA kit and uploaded his genetic code on a genealogy tracing website. The DNA match was made to a DNA sample from 2007, when he allegedly assaulted an undergraduate student. Insider reports.Although it took 14 years to resolve this case, it was something that was important for us and the victim. Fox 13 spoke to Chief Ruben Delgado, Tampa Police Assistant.According to the victim, she was drunk when she returned home from University of Tampa to her dorm. Vaughn, who was then 30 years old, offered to take her home. He assaulted her once they got there.The DNA samples were not matched up until Vaughns code was posted on the site. Police conducted a followup test and confirmed the match.AdvertisementAdvertisementOur success is dependent on information found in public genealogical databases. Participants and this is essential must opt-in to law enforcement matches, Mark Brutnell, Florida state trooper, told Fox 13.It is a difficult task to perform DNA testing in law enforcement. The suspect uploaded his own DNA samples to the case and seemed to accept that they could be used by police, or at least refused to opt out.However, suspects can be involved in crimes if their relatives upload their samples and subject them to genetic surveillance.It is difficult to praise technology that allows law enforcement to monitor the public using our genetic codes to solve cold cases. However, it is a relief that someone suspected of committing a grave crime was arrested. The difficult ethical issues of surveillance and the right for genetic privacy won't go away anytime soon.AdvertisementAdvertisementFuturism readers are invited to join the Singularity Global Community. This is our parent company's forum for futuristic science and technology discussions with other like-minded people around the globe. Sign up today to get started!
