Virginia law allows law enforcement and criminal justice agencies to share DNA data bank information, with the Department permitted to charge fees for searches. Unauthorized dissemination or misuse of DNA data is criminalized, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to a felony for illegal sample collection.
Yes, the Department can share DNA information with authorized law enforcement agencies outside Virginia, and may charge a fee for searches and comparisons.
Unauthorized dissemination of DNA data is a Class 3 misdemeanor; misuse for unauthorized purposes is a Class 1 misdemeanor; and obtaining samples without permission can be a Class 5 felony.
No, access is limited to authorized law enforcement and criminal justice agencies; individuals cannot request access to the data bank.
Yes, obtaining or attempting to obtain forensic samples without authority is a criminal offense, punishable by law.