World's End DNA testing ruled 'sound'

Published on Saturday 12 April 2008 11:02

A CONTROVERSIAL DNA test that was used in last year's aborted World's End murder trial has been deemed scientifically sound.

A Government review has concluded that the low copy number (LCN) DNA test, which was at the centre of the high profile murder trial, is suitable to use for future cases.

The study was set up last year after doubts were raised over the reliability of the testing, and experts have made a series of recommendations for improving the collection and interpretation of DNA samples.

Professor Brian Caddy, who led the review, said the technique is fundamentally safe, but is not being used as effectively as it might.

The tests had also been used in the recent Omagh bombing trial, where a senior judge had questioned their scientific validity after they wrongly linked a sample taken from a car bomb in Northern Ireland to a 14-year-old boy in Nottingham.

However, Prof Caddy said that the LCN tests were safe and made 21 recommendations for improving their use.

He said: "I am satisfied that Low Template DNA is fit for purpose within the criminal justice system. I found that the technique, as developed by all the forensic suppliers, is scientifically robust."