Part II provides a brief introduction to DNA testing and its increasing application in criminal jurisprudence. This section focuses on Federal initiatives intended to expand the use of DNA and DNA databases based on DNA's reputed evidentiary value. Part III provides an analysis of the efficacy of DNA testing and associated databases, from both a "pure" effectiveness basis (i.e., DNA's impact on crime) and a "cost" effectiveness standpoint (i.e., the crime level effect per unit cost of DNA testing and storage). Part IV reviews predictions of what the future may hold for DNA and related databases, as well as the normative policy concerns regarding current use and likely future expansion. The goal of this section is to provide informative commentary on the fundamental question examined: Are we better off living in a world where our most basic and singularly unique characteristics are on file, serving as a constant shadow over our daily lives? Part V discusses how DNA databases are being designed and presents findings from a survey of the existing law in the United States as to their present structure. The paper concludes that the invasiveness and cost of DNA databases, along with their questionable impact on crime control (the bulk of property offenses do not involve DNA collection and analysis) warrant careful scrutiny of the supposed benefits that many law enforcement and elected officials are quick to claim but slow to demonstrate. 9 tables and 182 notes