Bryan Kohberger’s legal team has asserted that law enforcement infringed upon his constitutional rights during their investigation into a series of crimes. The primary contention lies in the use of Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) to identify potential suspects, a method that Kohberger’s lawyers argue is unconstitutional.
Investigative Genetic Genealogy, also known as genetic genealogy, involves using DNA profiles from public databases like Ancestry.com or 23andMe to trace a suspect’s family tree. Law enforcement can then narrow down their search based on this information. This method has been used successfully in several high-profile cases but is now facing legal challenges.
Kohberger’s lawyers maintain that the use of IGG is an invasion of privacy and violates the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. They argue that when individuals submit their DNA to genealogy websites, they do not consent to law enforcement using this information in criminal investigations.
The defense team also contends that the use of IGG creates a slippery slope, potentially leading to mass surveillance. If left unchecked, they believe this technology could be used to monitor and track anyone without their knowledge or consent.
Moreover, Kohberger’s lawyers argue that the lack of regulation and standardization in IGG makes it unreliable and prone to errors. They point out that false positives are possible, which could lead to innocent people being wrongly accused or investigated.
The legal battle over Investigative Genetic Genealogy is ongoing, with cases like Kohberger’s setting a precedent for future use of the technology. The outcome will likely influence how law enforcement uses genetic information in investigations and may shape new laws or regulations regarding genetic privacy.
Meanwhile, the debate around IGG extends beyond the courtroom. Privacy advocates are raising concerns about the potential misuse of genetic data, while some law enforcement agencies argue that it’s a valuable tool for solving cold cases and catching dangerous criminals. As technology continues to advance, this conversation is poised to evolve and potentially impact various aspects of society.