Indiana law for felony arrest DNA collection taking effect

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Indiana authorities are being required under a new state law to collect a DNA sample from those who are arrested for a felony crime.

The law taking effect Monday requires that police collect a DNA cheek swap, along with fingerprints and photographs during the booking process. That will enable law enforcement to check a database for matches with DNA evidence gathered in other crimes.

The sample may be expunged from the system if an arrestee is acquitted, a charge is lowered below a felony, or if no charges are filed after a year.

State legislators approved the new law last April. Supporters contended it would help solve crimes, along with exonerating the innocent. Critics argued the DNA collection goes against the U.S. Constitution's protection from unreasonable search and seizure.