Last Thursday in Greenville, I had the great honor to represent the N.C. Council for Women at a historic moment that many of us who work as advocates for survivors of domestic violence have long dreamed about: The signing by Gov. Bev Perdue of legislation requiring DNA samples to be taken from those charged with felony crimes.
Surrounded by fellow advocates, law enforcement officials and legislators whose hard work made this day possible, I could not help but marvel at the magnitude of the occasion. It was a great feeling to watch the Governor affix her signature and know that the collection of DNA from criminals – those “21st century fingerprints” the Governor referenced – will help all statewide programs that provide services to those who are victims of crime.
So much is taken from victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, especially when the suspect is unknown. Using DNA to identify criminals – and many in this category are repeat offenders – will at least give a survivor the knowledge that a dangerous person has been taken off the street.
A less celebrated but equally important aspect of the legislation is the addition of more lab analysts who can test rape kits and other evidence more quickly. On behalf of crime survivors and families of victims, we thank the Governor and our legislators for standing firm on their pledge to make our communities safer.