Maryland police may continue to collect DNA samples from people arrested for some serious crimes, at least until further notice.
In an order issued Monday, Chief Justice John G. Roberts said there is a “fair prospect” the U.S. Supreme Court will overturn an April ruling, which found collecting DNA from those not convicted of a crime violated the Fourth Ammendment. In the order, Justice Roberts also said officers can continue to collect DNA samples of those arrested for the time being.
In April, the Maryland Court of Appeals ruled the collection of DNA from those arrested for such crimes was a violation of their Fourth Amendment’s prohibition of unreasonable search and seizure.
This case stems from a 2009 assault arrest of Alonzo Jay King, Jr. The DNA sample obtained matched evidence from a rape in 2003, which he was later convicted of.
The stay will remain in effect until the court decides what to do with the case.
If you are facing any type of criminal charges, you may want to discuss your case with an experienced and qualified Virginia criminal defense attorney. Call today for your free, initial consultation.
