New Knox DNA tests rejected

AN Italian appeal court has rejected a prosecution request for new DNA tests in the trial of Amanda Knox for the murder of British student Meredith Kercher, saying it would be unnecessary.

The decision by Judge Claudio Pratillo Hellmann opens the way for closing arguments, which are set to begin on September 23 with the prosecution. A verdict is expected by month’s end.

Independent experts have recently cast extreme doubt on DNA evidence that is crucial to the case.

Knox was convicted in 2009 of sexually assaulting and murdering Ms Kercher and sentenced to 26 years in prison.