Discussion of "The evaluation of forensic DNA evidence".

In 1992, a broad-ranging report (1) released by the National Research Council attempted to explain the basics of the relevant science and technology, to offer suggestions for improving forensic DNA testing and its use in law enforcement, and to quiet the controversy that had followed the introduction of DNA profiling in court. Yet, the report did not eliminate all controversy. Indeed, in pro-pounding what the committee regarded as a moderate position—the ceiling principle and the interim ceiling principle—the report itself became the target of criticism from scientists and lawyers on both sides of the debate on DNA evidence in the courts. Moreover, some of the statements in the 1992 report have been misinterpreted or misapplied in the courts.