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Principles of Forensic DNA for Officers of the Court

Common Terminology Used in Forensic DNA Laboratory Reports

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Inclusion or Match

When comparing a known sample to an evidence sample, the donor of the known is included as a source of the evidence if the profiles are the same. This can either be referred to as an inclusion or a match . For more information on an electropherogram see Module 4, Data Interpretation .

The significance of the inclusion or match will depend on the statistical data obtained. More information can be found on statistics in Module 7.

When an individual is included as a contributor to the DNA profile, it does not necessarily mean the individual was involved. For example, the individual may have a reasonable explanation as to why their DNA is at the crime scene, such as a close friend who was a frequent visitor to a home that was burglarized.

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