DNA testing aimed at violent youths

AUGUSTA – The Legislature took action on several bills Wednesday, including a measure that would subject youths who commit violent crimes to DNA testing. Senators followed the House and voted 23-12 in favor of the amended bill, despite words of caution that it goes too far.

As amended, LD 380 would subject juveniles to DNA testing if they have committed certain violent crimes, such as murder, gross sexual assault and robbery. Adults must submit to DNA testing if they have committed any of an even wider variety of crimes.

Sen. Neria Douglass, D-Auburn, raised concerns about the effects of the legislation on civil liberties, asking during a debate, “How much of a police state do we want to become?” Assistant Senate Republican Leader Chandler Woodcock of Farmington took issue with the “police state” inference and referred to the proposal as “a tool for justice.” The bill still requires final votes.