Question

Read the excerpts from "Wrongful Convictions” by Jon Gould and Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson.

"Wrongful Convictions”

Now, with DNA evidence available, it is essential that that testing be done earlier in a case because certain people can be weeded out from the beginning. And I recognize that that testing is expensive, but the testing is likely going to be used anyhow in these cases, so you might as well do it earlier.

Just Mercy

We also make terrible mistakes. Scores of innocent people have been exonerated after being sentenced to death and nearly executed. Hundreds more have been released after being proved innocent of noncapital crimes through DNA testing. Presumptions of guilt, poverty, racial bias, and a host of other social, structural, and political dynamics have created a system that is defined by error, a system in which thousands of innocent people now suffer in prison.

Based on the excerpts’ details about wrongful convictions, which conclusion about DNA testing can be logically made?

DNA testing is crucial to clearing innocent people before they are convicted.
DNA testing is too expensive to use more often in investigations.
DNA testing is used frequently to ensure that the correct person is convicted.
DNA testing can be used only after a conviction has been made.

Answer 1

DNA testing is crucial to clearing innocent people before they are convicted.

Justification: Gould argues DNA testing should be done earlier to weed out innocent people before conviction, and Stevenson notes many innocent people have been exonerated through DNA testing after conviction—together implying DNA testing is vital for preventing and correcting wrongful convictions.