Lower Bucks Today

Reps. Joe Hogan and KC Tomlinson, along with Sen. Frank Farry, have introduced legislation aimed at expanding DNA sample collection within Pennsylvania's criminal justice system. During a press conference, the lawmakers were joined by Bucks County Sheriff Fred Harran and Ashley Spence, founder of the DNA Justice Project and a rape survivor.

The proposed bill seeks to mandate post-arrest DNA testing for individuals charged with felonies or specific misdemeanors, aligning this process with fingerprinting procedures. Currently, 19 states have similar laws in place. Additionally, the legislation intends to include offenders convicted of criminal homicide in DNA sample collections, addressing a gap in current Pennsylvania laws where homicides are not classified as felonies.

"This legislation will provide a critical tool for our criminal justice system to identify and convict frequent criminal offenders including violent predators," stated Hogan. He emphasized closing the "homicide loophole" to aid in solving cold cases and providing closure for families.

Ashley Spence recounted her experience of surviving an assault during college and how her attacker's DNA was eventually matched after he was arrested in California. This case underscored the potential impact of expanded DNA collection on solving crimes.

Tomlinson expressed strong support for the bill: "This bill is a key tool to making sure we keep violent offenders off our streets and out of our neighborhoods." She highlighted its role in preventing repeat offenses and supporting law enforcement efforts.

Farry praised Spence's courage and legislative advocacy: "One of our goals as elected officials is to ensure our communities are safe... it will also stop innocent people from being convicted."

The legislators aim for this measure to enhance public safety by facilitating more accurate identification of criminals while protecting the innocent.