DNA testing at the Queensland State Forensic Laboratory will be investigated by a commission of inquiry.
Key points:
- Queensland police said they were reviewing cases of sexual assault that were initially thought to lack sufficient DNA evidence
- The terms of the commission will be decided by its head, former Judge Walter Sofronoff
- Prime Minister says “comprehensive, open and rigorous” investigation is required to restore confidence in DNA testing
Prime Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced that former President of the Court of Appeal, Retired Judge Walter Sofronoff, will lead the investigation into the Queensland Health Science and Forensic Services Laboratory (QHFSS).
The state government had already announced a review in the lab, but last week they indicated they were considering expanding it amid reports that Queensland police were re-examining cases from four years ago.
The Queensland Police Service had confirmed that it was reviewing all previous sexual assault cases since early 2018 that QHFSS had initially reported as “insufficient DNA for further processing”.
It comes after additional tests on samples related to last year’s sexual offense cases had a 66% success rate in the generation of DNA profiles.
Ms Palaszczuk said she was clear that “nothing more than a full, open and rigorous commission of inquiry can restore confidence” in DNA testing in the state.
“Everyone knows what core DNA testing is like for our justice system,” he said.
“People in this state deserve the utmost confidence and that is why I am taking this action today.
“I said on Friday that there was nothing off the table. Today we made the decision as a cabinet that we will go ahead with this commission of inquiry.”
He said the research will examine all aspects and operations of the lab.
“[But] which cases, to what extent and the terms of reference will depend on the commissioner, “he said.
“[Mr Sofronoff] he has the opportunity to make public inquiries, that is entirely at his discretion. “
He said the terms of reference would end with Mr. Sofronoff over the next few days and will be released later this week.
Posted 1 Hour 1 Hour Monday, June 6, 2022 at 3:03 AM, last updated 40 minutes ago 40 Minutes Monday, June 6, 2022 at 3:31 AM