National DNA Data Bank Surpasses Milestone 5,000 Hits in Matching Crime Scenes to Convicted Offenders

Ottawa, May 15, 2006 — In recognition of Police Week, the Honourable Stockwell Day was joined by RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli in congratulating the National DNA Data Bank (NDDB) on its recent milestone of 5,000 hits. Since it began operating in June 2000, the NDDB has consistently proven to be a powerful investigative tool in helping law enforcement solve crime, including the most serious offences.

“The National DNA Data Bank is a shining example of the results achieved when science, law enforcement and the courts work hand in hand,” said Honourable Stockwell Day. “Using the science of DNA, the Data Bank is one of the most valid and reliable investigative tools available to help us keep our families and communities safe.”

“The National DNA Data Bank is truly a best practice in integration and cooperation,” said RCMP Commissioner Zaccardelli. “ It is a valued tool of both law enforcement and the courts, delivering timely and cost effective results that benefit all Canadians. It is only fitting that we celebrate the Data Bank’s accomplishments during Police Week, in recognition of its contribution to helping police solve crime.”

The NDDB’s success is a direct result of a commitment to meeting legislative requirements, advancing scientific research, successfully managing resources, and ensuring the security of data and privacy of information. The numbers tell the story; in the first year of operation, the NDDB made 25 hits, while 2,323 hits were made in 2005/2006 alone.

The success stories continue to pour into the NDDB, ranging from solving a 1984 murder cold case to a string of jewelry store robberies, to a series of sexual assaults on young girls. As of May 5 th, 2006, the NDDB has provided assistance with the investigation of 316 murders, 735 sexual assaults, 114 attempted murders, 641 robberies (armed), 2,941 Break and Enters and 420 other types of offences.

Located at the RCMP Headquarters in Ottawa, the NDDB is part of the Forensic Science and Identification Services. The policies governing the creation and operation of the NDDB are contained within the DNA Identification Act proclaimed in June 2000. The NDDB analyzes and stores the DNA profiles from convicted offender samples and those derived from crime scenes and compares each DNA profile with other DNA profiles. The NDDB assists law enforcement by linking crimes together where there are no suspects, helping to identify suspects, eliminating suspects where there is no match between them and crime scene evidence, and determining whether a serial offender is involved.

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For more information on the National DNA Data Bank, go to http://www.nddb-bndg.org

Please contact RCMP Media Relations for further information: (613) 993-2999.