Journal Published Online: 01 March 1997
Volume 42, Issue 2

Interpreting DNA Mixtures

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The interpretation of mixed DNA stains is explained in the context of likelihood ratios. The probabilities for the mixed-stain profile are evaluated under alternative explanations that specify the numbers of contributors and the profiles of any known contributors. Interpretations based simply on the frequencies with which random members of a population would not be excluded from a mixed-stain profile do not make use of all the information, and may overstate the strength of the evidence against included people. The effects of the numbers of contributors depends on whether all the alleles at a locus are present in the mixed stain. A general equation is given to allow likelihood ratios to be calculated, and includes the “2p” modification suggested by the 1996 NRC report. This modification is not always conservative. A computer program to perform calculations is available.

Author Information

Weir, BS
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
Triggs, CM
University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Starling, L
ESR: Forensic, Mt. Albert Science Center, Auckland, New Zealand
Stowell, LI
ESR: Forensic, Mt. Albert Science Center, Auckland, New Zealand
Walsh, KAJ
ESR: Forensic, Mt. Albert Science Center, Auckland, New Zealand
Buckleton, J
ESR: Forensic, Mt. Albert Science Center, Auckland, New Zealand
Pages: 10
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS14100J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14100J