Maryland Lawmaker Questions DHS on DNA Collection from Migrants

In a recent development, Republican Maryland Representative Andy Harris has reached out to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas regarding the handling of DNA evidence in the murder case of Rachel Morin. Harris's inquiry follows the arrest of 23-year-old Martinez-Hernandez, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, who has been charged in connection with Morin's death. The congressman is particularly concerned about whistleblower allegations suggesting that only a third of migrants at the southern border are subjected to DNA collection. Harris's letter specifically questions whether a DNA sample was taken from Martinez-Hernandez upon his entry into the United States and, if not, the reasons behind this oversight. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the suspect, linked to a violent home invasion in Los Angeles prior to Morin's murder, is held accountable and prevented from causing further harm. The investigation revealed a DNA match between evidence from Morin's murder and the Los Angeles incident, yet authorities faced challenges in identifying the suspect due to the lack of prior entries in the national Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Sheriff Jeffery Gahler, who announced the arrest, criticized the current immigration policies, stating that they compromise the safety of American citizens, even in areas far from the southern border. The case has raised significant concerns about the effectiveness of immigration enforcement and the collection of DNA evidence from illegal immigrants, highlighting potential gaps in the system that could endanger public safety.