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A view of the Senate Chambers from the 2010-2011 Senate Reorganization.

13 Jun: Sacco-Sarlo Bill To Improve Public Safety By Expanding Dna Database Clears Committee

TRENTON – In an effort to assist criminal investigations and deter and detect recidivist acts, Senators Nicholas J. Sacco and Paul Sarlo sponsored legislation that would add disorderly person’s offenses to the list of criminal conduct that, upon conviction, requires biological sampling for the DNA database. The Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee today approved the legislation.

“DNA testing provides a valuable tool for investigating unsolved crimes and ultimately removing serious offenders from our streets,” said Senator Sacco, D-Hudson and Bergen. “We have a responsibility to act preemptively and collect DNA samples before the individual commits another offense or becomes a fugitive. For the safety of all New Jersey residents, this legislation is the right thing to do.”

Senator Nicholas Sacco, D-Hudson, speaks with a colleague on the Senate floor regarding legislation being voted on.

20 Mar: Sacco Introduces Bill To Expand DNA Database

TRENTON – State Senator Nicholas J. Sacco, the author of the State’s DNA Database law, has introduced legislation which would expand DNA sampling to include people convicted of disorderly persons offenses in order to increase the accuracy of the database and shed light on currently unsolved crimes.

“If we’re serious about keeping our State’s law-abiding citizens safe, we have to give the law enforcement community every tool possible to fight crime,” said Senator Sacco, D-Hudson and Bergen. “The DNA database has been one of the most significant advances in police technology in recent years, allowing police officers to gain new insights in unsolved crimes and exonerate innocent individuals. By expanding DNA sampling to anyone convicted of a crime, we can greatly increase the accuracy and effectiveness of the database.”