A comparison of statistical models for the analysis of complex forensic DNA profiles

Hannah Kelly; Jo-Anne Bright; John S Buckleton; James M Curran

doi:10.1016/j.scijus.2013.07.003

A comparison of statistical models for the analysis of complex forensic DNA profiles

Sci Justice. 2014 Jan;54(1):66-70. doi: 10.1016/j.scijus.2013.07.003. Epub 2013 Aug 12.

Authors

Hannah Kelly¹, Jo-Anne Bright², John S Buckleton², James M Curran³

Affiliations

¹ ESR, PB 92021, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; Department of Statistics, University of Auckland, PB 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand. Electronic address: Hannah.kelly@outlook.co.nz.
² ESR, PB 92021, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
³ Department of Statistics, University of Auckland, PB 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.

PMID: 24438780
DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2013.07.003

Abstract

Complex mixtures and LtDNA profiles are difficult to interpret. As yet there is no consensus within the forensic biology community as to how these profiles should be interpreted. This paper is a review of some of the current interpretation models, highlighting their weaknesses and strengths. It also discusses what a forensic biologist requires in an interpretation model and if this can be realistically executed under current justice systems.

Keywords: Binary model; Continuous model; Drop model; Forensic DNA interpretation.

Publication types

Comparative Study
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

DNA Fingerprinting*
Humans
Models, Statistical*