53:1-20.24. Use of State database

8. a. It shall be the duty of the division to store, analyze, classify and file in the State database and with the FBI for inclusion in CODIS the DNA record of identification characteristic profiles of DNA samples submitted pursuant to section 4 of this act and to make such information available from the State database as provided in this section. The division may contract out DNA typing analysis to a qualified DNA laboratory that meets established guidelines. The results of the DNA profile of individuals in the State database shall be made available to local, State or federal law enforcement agencies, and approved crime laboratories which serve these agencies, upon written or electronic request and in furtherance of an official investigation of a criminal offense. These records shall also be available upon receipt of a valid court order issued by a judge of the Superior Court directing the division to release these results to appropriate parties not listed above. The division shall maintain a file of such court orders.

b. The division shall adopt rules governing the methods of obtaining information from the State database and CODIS and procedures for verification of the identity and authority of the requester.

c. The division shall create a separate population database comprised of records obtained pursuant to this act after all personal identification is removed. Nothing shall prohibit the division from sharing or disseminating population databases with other law enforcement agencies, and crime laboratories that serve these agencies, upon written or electronic request and in furtherance of an official investigation of a criminal offense, or other third parties deemed necessary to assist with statistical analysis of the population databases. The population database may be made available to and searched by other agencies participating in the CODIS system.

L.1994,c.136,s.8.