Police departments across the country are causing controversy by creating their own local DNA databases. The police departments state that having personal databases helps them solve crimes faster and prevent future crimes. Those opposed to these local DNA databases believe that it is just a way around the regulations that govern state and national databases.
According to reports, some of the police departments with their own databases have received DNA samples from people who have never been arrested or convicted of a crime and even, in some instances, children. Regulations for state and federal authorities state require a conviction, arrest or warrant before they add a sample to their data bank.
There is currently no way to know how many police departments are operating using their own DNA databases across the country, as there are no regulations or oversight required for them.