Can a strand from natural wig found in crime scene lead to trouble for donor
This article explores the forensic feasibility of using donated hair from wigs to identify suspects at crime scenes. Experts suggest that processed, cut hair is generally unsuitable for DNA profiling, making it highly unlikely for a donor to be implicated in a crime.
Why it matters
It addresses public concerns regarding privacy and legal liability in the context of the growing hair donation and wig industry.
NEW DELHI: Hair is a big business in India. Hair trade involves donating hair to make wigs, especially for cancer patients.But have you ever wondered what happens if a strand of this donated hair is recovered from a crime scene? Can the donor get in trouble?In practice, this is very unlikely. Cut hair usually cannot be tested for DNA, and even a genetic link to a donor would not show that the donor had anything to do with the offence. Here is why, and what the law says if police do come calling.Why is donated hair so hard to trace?The main obstacle is scientific. DNA profiling depends on the type and condition of the material recovered, and hair that has been cut is a poor source.“We generally can’t get DNA from hair without a follicle namely, hair that is cut from someone’s head.
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