Another Interesting Use of DNA

Here’s a tip. If you ever have a crime, question, or problem you can’t solve, consider using DNA. Why not? It’s there and ready for the taking.

In Australia, police support worker Suzanne Kiloh was accused of pushing Margaret Schestopalov onto train tracks into the path of an oncoming train. Schestopalov was seriously injured and is still in the hospital.

When prosecutors asked for a photograph to measure her height and weight, Kiloh refused. When they asked for her DNA, guess what? She also refused.

Detective Sergeant Mark Carter yesterday sought an order in the Downing Centre Local Court to force Ms Kiloh to undergo a “buccal swab”.

Sgt Carter said police hoped to compare Ms Kiloh’s DNA to any DNA found on the back of Ms Schestopalov’s clothing.

Magistrate Christine Haskett rejected the order, ruling it was not justified because tests were yet to be carried out on the victim’s clothing to determine whether any DNA was present.

You’d think eyewitness reports would suffice. What did law enforcement do before DNA testing?!

NB: It doesn’t really matter why Kiloh did what she did but eyewitnesses say that Kiloh was unhappy that victim Schestopalov had not covered her mouth when she coughed. Perhaps Kiloh is just a bit overzealous in her belief that you should use your sleeve. (See video below the fold.)

News.com.au, January 17, 2007

Tags: genetics, genes, dna, crime, law, suzanne kiloh, margaret schestopalov