The use of DNA identification in prosecuting wildlife-traffickers in Australia: do the penalties fit the crimes?
Forensic Sci Med Pathol
; 6(3): 211-6, 2010 Sep.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20640536
ABSTRACT
The use of genetic identification techniques in wildlife forensic investigations has increased significantly in recent years. The utilization of DNA is especially important when species identification using other methods are inconclusive. Australia has strict laws against illegal importation of wildlife as well as laws to protect its unique biodiversity from pests and diseases of quarantine concern. Two separate case studies in which genetic identification was essential for species identification are presented-the first involved illegally held shark fins, the second illegally imported live bird eggs. In the latter case genetic identification enabled charges to be laid for illegal importation of CITES Appendix I species. Australian laws allow for some of the highest penalties for illegal trade of wildlife compared to other countries, however only a fraction of cases are prosecuted and penalties applied to date have been lower than the maximum permitted. Both of the reported cases resulted in fines, and one in imprisonment of the offender, which provides a persuasive precedent for future prosecutions.
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Papagaios
/
Tubarões
/
Impressões Digitais de DNA
/
Conservação dos Recursos Naturais
/
Crime
/
Cacatuas
Tipo de estudo:
Diagnostic_studies
/
Prognostic_studies
Limite:
Animals
/
Humans
País como assunto:
Oceania
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2010
Tipo de documento:
Article