IB Chemistry, DNA and Forensics Assignment

After reading the articles in the packet, as well as any other additional research you choose to do, write a report about the use of DNA analysis for forensic purposes. The report must be at least two pages long [double-spaced].

Be sure to address the following issues:

1. How is DNA evidence collected and used in forensic investigations? Explain the process.
2. Why can DNA evidence be used to establish (prove) the identity of people in criminal and/or civil cases?
3. How reliable is DNA evidence? What is the possibility that DNA evidence can lead to erroneous information or conclusions (i.e. O.J. Simpson case)?
4. Suppose that a person convicted of a crime has been exonerated with DNA evidence--should they be released immediately? Should DNA evidence be a requirement for conviction in a capital murder case?

I believe we have some freedom to adjust the focus of our report. The purpose of the assignment is to approach chemistry from a Theory of Knowledge perspective.