Press release [Mar. 12, 2003]

3-1773-4830
For Immediate Release:

Georgia House of Representatives Public Information Office
Room 131, State Capitol 30334 404-656-5082 1-800-282-5800

March 12, 2003

Lawmaker Wants to Make Readmitting DNA Evidence Easier

Atlanta State Representative Curt Thompson (D-Norcross) has introduced HB 599 which would allow a process for post conviction deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing of evidence. Current law does not specify the readmittance of DNA evidence for appeal cases.
The proposed measure states a person who was convicted of a felony and is currently serving a term of imprisonment may make a written motion before the trial court that entered the judgment of conviction in his or her case, for the performance of forensic DNA testing.
Also spelled out in the legislation are standards for making such motions and procedures for retaining evidence that is relevant in the case. If it can be shown that requested DNA testing would raise a reasonable probability of a defendants acquittal, then the state would have 60 days to respond to the motion and request a rebuttal hearing.
"Currently there is not a process for the re-admittance of DNA evidence," said Thompson. "If it can affirm the integrity of a conviction or help acquit an innocent person then there should be a clear cut way to get to a post conviction test. This bill has the support of the Georgia District Attorneys Association and others."
It now awaits action in the in the House Judiciary Committee. Rep. Thompson serves on Judiciary, Special Judiciary and Industrial Relations Committees.
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For further information, contact Rep. Thompson @ 404-656-0177 or Danny Porter in the Gwinnett County District Attorney's office at 770-822-8400.