Some Vermont defense attorneys are challenging the expansion of state law that allows DNA samples to be taken from more criminal suspects.
In the last decade, Vermont’s DNA collection law, which was initially set up for people convicted of violent felonies, has been expanded.
But in 2005 the law was expanded to require that anyone convicted of a felony submit a DNA sample. In 2009 it was expanded to include anyone arraigned on a felony, a misdemeanor count of domestic violence, or a misdemeanor sex offense requiring sex offender registration.
The Burlington Free Press says public defender Rory Malone wrote a memorandum being used by other defense attorneys that says requiring a DNA sample from all adults charged with a felony violates the state and U.S. constitutions.
Note: Information in the following story is from: The Burlington Free Press, http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com