Updated: 11/09/2009 10:34 PM KSTP.com | Print |  Email
By: Becky Nahm

Minn. Leads the Way on New DNA Testing

Minnesota is poised to become only the second state in the country, behind California, to use a new kind of DNA testing that promises to heat up cold cases.

The new DNA test called MiniFiler, allows scientists to amplify DNA samples.

Using the new test, law enforcement officials will be able to test samples too old and too degraded to yield a result using current DNA tests.

Officials will be able to go back through unsolved crimes, apply the test to evidence and search for the smallest amount of DNA. If DNA is found, it might help authorities develop a suspect.

Cases are on a waiting list for the MiniFiler test, some are 10- to 20-years-old.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension DNA lab supervisor Kris Deters said, "Our goal is to help bring justice to people that have been victimized and to help bring closure to these families."

Even if the new test doesn't lead to a name, authorities may be able to file charges based solely on the DNA profile.

The Carver County Attorney Jim Keeler did just that in September. He charged "John Doe" with kidnapping, burglary and robbery for a 2006 home invasion.

Assistant Hennepin County Attorney Steve Redding has charged more "John Doe" cases than anyone else in the state.

"John Doe" complaints allow authorities to file charges before the statute of limitations runs out. However there is no statute of limitations on murder, nor is there a time limit on rape cases in which DNA evidence is collected.

The BCA plans to start using the MiniFiler test by spring.

The test is slightly more expensive than current DNA testing. It could cost more than $1,000 per case.