Jurors returned from lunch, full and looking a bit sleepy, to learn the details of DNA testing. Prosecutor Pete Magrino had a long list of informational questions for forensic expert Roshale Gaytmenn, from "what is DNA" to could you describe "linkage equilibrium?"
Before jurors can hear about the analysis of case-specific evidence, they have to learn how exactly such analysis is performed. For most, any memories of high school or college biology is a bit murky.
Which means experts have to serve as impromptu educators. Some are better than others at translating scientific jargon into layman's terms.
DNA is the hereditary material passed from generation to generation, Gaytmenn explained to jurors.
"It's what makes a cat a cat, a dog a dog and a human a human," she said, casting her statement in simpler language.
She went on to describe the DNA testing process she uses, how she prevents cross-contamination and the statistical frequency of various kinds of DNA samples, responding to Magrino's numerous questions.
Jurors' eyes began to get a bit glazed. You can only hope they're paying more attention than they did in Biology class.
-- Elena Lesley
Follow the latest developments in the murder trial of John Couey as compiled and reported by the staff of the St. Petersburg Times and tampabay.com.
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