Under which condition can DNA samples be legally collected, according to the 2013 ruling?

The correct choice highlights that DNA samples can be legally collected without the consent of individuals who have been arrested for serious crimes. This particular ruling reflects the courts' recognition of the balance between law enforcement's need for evidence and individual rights. The 2013 Supreme Court case, Maryland v. King, established that taking DNA samples from individuals arrested for serious offenses is permissible under the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The reasoning behind this decision is that DNA collection serves a legitimate government interest in solving and preventing crimes, especially when the person is detained for a felony charge.

The ruling specifically emphasizes that the collection is reasonable and does not violate constitutional rights as long as it is performed with appropriate legal protocols in place. This allows law enforcement agencies to utilize DNA databases to identify potential suspects in crimes, further supporting public safety and justice efforts.