Change methods to reduce DNA pileup

Re “Massive Backlog Plagues DNA Lab,” Sept. 14

This backlog comes as no surprise to most of us in the legal community. Before the passage of Proposition 69, those familiar with the ballot measure and the state crime lab predicted a massive DNA backlog. Additionally, it was clear to us that the funding attached to the measure would not cover the costs associated with it.

I opposed Proposition 69 for a number of reasons. I believe that the law is illegal and racially biased. Regardless, I am incredulous that the only solution to the backlog offered by the measure’s supporters is additional funding. Before its passage, supporters touted the fact that it would not cost taxpayers.

I would suggest that the backlog could be cut dramatically if the government stopped taking multiple DNA samples from single individuals. Implement a simple tracking measure so that once an individual has provided a DNA sample, he or she would not have to provide another. Finally, the state should prioritize the samples to be tested so that samples from individuals convicted of violent crimes would be analyzed ahead of those convicted of lesser offenses.

JENNIFER FRIEDMAN

Los Angeles