April 15, 2004

Charlottesville VA DNA Dragnet Called Off

Charlottesville Virginia police announced that they would discontinue their practice of asking some black men to provide DNA samples as a method of identifying a serial rapist. In the past, the practice of racial profiling extended beyond traffic stops to include mass arrest in areas near the site of crimes. The question is not just whether the practice is constitutional, but would other racial groups be equally subjected to this practice given the same set of circumstances. Domestic law enforcements history would answer no to this question.

Police in Charlottesville Suspend 'DNA Dragnet', The Washington Post, April 15, 2004