Appropriate Use of Test Data

A government agency is training students from local law enforcement agencies in use of a new device for matching DNA samples.  Trainees collect specimens of their own DNA in various ways and then analyze these to learn how the mode of collection influences the likelihood and reliability of a match.  At the end of the course, and unbeknownst to participants, everyone’s DNA profile is entered into the agency database.  Is this appropriate?  Would it be more appropriate if consent were obtained?  Would it be more appropriate if the data were fingerprints, rather than DNA samples?

R3H says:  Under no circumstance can personal information be taken and incorporated into a database, government or otherwise, without knowledge and consent.  This is not only unethical on its face, it is illegal and the government itself is not exempt under its own US code.  It does not make any difference if it is DNA or fingerprints.  If consent is not knowingly and freely given, it cannot be ethically done.  If consent were obtained, this might be permissible, although there are concerns about implied or actual coercion.  This would depend on the specifics of the situation and consent.