In a recent episode of the widely acclaimed podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delved into the controversial topic of genetic genealogy and its role in criminal cases. Joining him was psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott, shedding light on how defense teams increasingly target DNA evidence methodologies to advocate for their clients.
 
 "As expected," began Brueski, "defense teams are leaving no stone unturned, especially when it comes to the genetic genealogy process." He noted that while there may not seem to be many avenues for the defense to pursue, it appears that challenging the DNA evidence is becoming a prime focus. "The science is pretty solid on this," Brueski pointed out, "but I'm curious if there's a chance they can find legitimate traction here."
 
 Scott echoed Brueski's sentiments, explaining that while the defense is fervently looking for technicalities, she remains unconvinced about the actual impact these technicalities might have on the evidence itself. "There's concern about whether individuals whose genetic material was in the database had given consent for sharing their information with law enforcement," she said. Such details have the potential to cloud the evidentiary process, but the question remains: Can they negate the outcome?
 
 An intriguing point raised was regarding the administrative processes and potential errors that might have occurred, like unchecked boxes by grand jury members. Scott opined, "It feels like a desperate attempt, but their aim is to identify anything they can to challenge the validity of the evidence."
 
 The broader issue brought to the forefront was the intersection of the pursuit of justice and legal technicalities. "It's frustrating," Brueski remarked, "Especially when justice for the victims seems overshadowed by these technicalities. The main question is whether these so-called errors actually impact the results of any tests or evidence."
 
 The duo reflected upon how, in high-stakes cases, particularly those involving the death penalty, defense teams might be driven to employ every possible strategy in hopes of getting pieces of evidence dismissed. Brueski lamented the possibility of the truth getting overshadowed by minor procedural glitches. "It feels at times like the truth doesn't matter, especially when technicalities can change outcomes."
 
 However, Scott added balance to the discourse by highlighting that such a combative approach is not limited to defense teams. Prosecutors, in some instances, have been known to employ tactics that could potentially obscure the truth. "Our legal system is undeniably adversarial," Scott explained, "and sometimes, both sides are so committed to winning that the primary objective of uncovering the truth takes a backseat."
 
 In a system that often seems polarized, the sentiments expressed by Scott underscore the importance of both parties playing fair. "What we genuinely want," Scott concluded, "is both sides to be transparent and sincere in their pursuit. After all, justice should be about the truth, first and foremost."
 
 The episode serves as a timely reminder of the intricate balance between legal processes, technological advancements in forensics, and the undying quest for justice. As genetic genealogy continues to be an instrumental tool in solving cases, the legal challenges it faces will shape its future use in courtrooms across the country.
 
 With these expert insights, the episode undoubtedly adds a new layer to the ongoing discourse about the ethics, reliability, and implications of genetic genealogy in the legal realm. Those keen on keeping a pulse on these developments will undoubtedly be waiting for the next enlightening episode from "Hidden Killers".

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer