DNA is an essential legal tool in Michigan and elsewhere — used to prove innocence in some cases, and guilt in others. A man in another state was recently charged with felonies after DNA on a pair of slippers was allegedly matched to him. The arrest warrant followed an investigation launched in response to an home invasion report.
Reportedly, a woman claimed she was awakened from sleep by a noise that caused her to investigate. After noticing the open front door, she proceeded to the laundry room from where she heard the noise. She alleges she came upon a bearded, barefoot man, who fled on foot when she yelled and ordered him to leave her home.
The police officer who responded to the call reported that he found a pair of slippers at the front door, and when the homeowner did not recognize the slippers, the officer logged them as evidence. The officer reported that he noticed a neighbor of the woman had a beard. Upon the officer’s question, he responded that the slippers did not belong to him. However, the neighbor’s wife recognized the slippers, and subsequent forensic analysis apparently matched them to the neighbor.
Anyone in Michigan who faces aggravated assault and burglary charges, or is accused of other felonies, would likely benefit by retaining the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Having legal counsel from the onset could ensure that the accused individual’s legal rights are protected. After examining the evidence and procedures used to obtain it, the lawyer can devise a defense strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for the client.