Examining the transfer of male DNA onto female underwear in simulated non sexual social interaction versus digital penetration to assist in the evaluation of results in casework scenarios. Issue 1 (January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Doole, Sharon; Hargreaves, Charlotte; Davidson, Geraldine; Alexander, Karen; Boyce, Maggie; Fraser, Isla; Murphy, Charlotte; Lee-Gorman, Marce; Rogers, Carol
• Is Part Of: Science & justice. Volume 63:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: 90
• Page End: 108
• Publication Date: 2023-01
• Subjects: Body fluid forum -- Male DNA -- Y-STR -- Digital penetration -- Underwear; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Criminal investigation -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Criminalistique -- Périodiques; Enquêtes criminelles -- Périodiques; Criminal investigation; Forensic sciences; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 363.2505
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.11.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1355-0306

Abstract

Highlights: Simulated sexual assaults to investigate transfer of male DNA to female underwear. Y-STR analysis carried out on samples taken from inside female underwear. Low expectation of Y-STR profile with statistical evaluation through social contact. Y-STR profile with statistical evaluation can be obtained from co-habiting male(s) Traces of male DNA can be found even if no co-habiting male or sexual activity. Abstract: Experiments have been carried out by the UK and Ireland Association of Forensic Science Providers Body Fluid Forum (AFSP BFF) to determine the levels of male DNA, detected during Y-STR analysis, that may be expected on female underwear from non-sexual social interaction and digital penetration, versus non-sexual social interaction only. The data obtained strongly supports the existing assumptions made: whilst low levels of DNA may be inadvertently transferred to the inside surface of a female's underwear during social interaction with a male, there is a low expectation of detecting a matching Y-STR profile to that male, which is suitable for statistical evaluation, unless he is a co-habitant of that female.