DNA Profiling and Forensic Science Quiz

What is DNA profiling?

What major flaw in evidence led to Kirk Odom's conviction?

The DNA left at the crime scene matched Kirk Odom's DNA.

Kirk Odom was convicted of ______ while armed.

How many years did Kirk Odom serve before being released?

What event prompted the reopening of Kirk Odom's case in 2011?

What is one of the uses of DNA technology mentioned in the content?

DNA technology has only legal implications in forensic science.

DNA Profiling and Forensic Science

DNA profiling is a technique used to analyze DNA samples to determine if they originated from the same individual.
Every individual (except identical twins) has unique DNA.
DNA profiling has been used to exonerate individuals wrongly convicted of crimes.
In the case of Kirk Odom, DNA evidence conclusively proved his innocence after he served over 20 years in prison.

The Odom Case

Kirk Odom was convicted in 1981 based on eyewitness testimony and microscopic hair analysis, which was later found to be flawed.
The FBI originally determined that hair found at the crime scene was indistinguishable from Odom's.
Modern DNA analysis revealed that the DNA found at the crime scene did not match Odom's.
The DNA matched a different man, a convicted sex offender.
In 2012, after 30 years in prison, Odom was officially declared innocent.

The Impact of DNA Technology

DNA technology is used to identify suspects in criminal investigations.
DNA technology has contributed to advancements in areas such as genetic engineering, agriculture, and medicine.
Scientists are working to detect and cure fatal genetic diseases using DNA technology.

Explore the techniques and implications of DNA profiling in forensic science. This quiz delves into how DNA evidence has exonerated wrongfully convicted individuals, with a focus on the significant case of Kirk Odom. Test your knowledge on the impact of DNA technology in criminal investigations.