amicus florida v harris policy
DOJ Reverses Course on Forensic Evidence Committee After Federal Judge Resigns in Protest
The Department of Justice has reversed a decision to limit oversight of scientific evidence after a federal judge threatened to resign in protest. The National Commission on Forensic Science, established by the DOJ, was charged with improving the reliability of forensic science but the Justice Department appeared ready to make a recommendation contrary to the Commission's purpose. Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) has urged better oversight of forensic evidence in the criminal justice system. EPIC also asked the Supreme Court in an amicus curiae brief in Florida v. Harris to look more closely at investigative techniques that help establish probable cause. EPIC argued that courts should ensure that techniques are adequately tested to ensure the accuracy and validity of results. The dispute over the recommendations of the National Commission on Forensic Science reflect a similar concern.
January 30, 2015| Share:
