(RALEIGH) -- A new law that allows authorities to collect DNA from those accused, but not convicted, of certain crimes is now in effect. State Attorney General Roy Cooper said the DNA will be collected by cheek swab, not by drawing blood.

"Sheriff's offices will not have to have nurses on duty to draw blood and officers will be trained in obtaining cheek samples.  That will make it easier to do," said Cooper. Forensic scientists from the SBI lab have conducted 15 training sessions across the state through the North Carolina Justice Academy to help law enforcement agencies prepare to implement the new law.

Cooper said this law will help solve more crimes. "By getting the DNA samples into the database at an earlier time then you have a better chance of getting hits sooner and protecting people," said Cooper.

Civil rights advocates such as the American Civil Liberties Union maintain that the law raises constitutional questions.  In a system where a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, they believe a DNA sample should not be taken from a person just because they are accused of a crime.