KQED's Scott Shafer talked to Kara Dansky, executive director of the Stanford Criminal Justice Center, about the expanded use of DNA databases and a new twist in Orange County:

Yesterday, the ACLU filed a challenge to California's Proposition 69, which requires DNA samples from anyone arrested on felony charges, even those who are not charged or convicted. Orange County prosecutors have gone a step further and are offering to drop charges for minor offenses if the accused gives up a DNA sample. Guest: Kara Dansky, executive director of the Stanford Criminal Justice Center.

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From what I can tell there are basically three reasons that prosecutors like programs like this. ... It helps clear high volumes off court calendars. ... It saves tax payers money ... and the third reason given is that ... it gives defendants a chance to keep their records clean.