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FAIRFIELD — Fairfield-based DNA Diagnostic Center has a hand in a paternity case that is drawing international interest.

Dr. Michael Baird, a DNA expert with the center at One DDC Way, has been hired by attorneys of one of the three men claiming to be the father of

6-month-old Dannielynn, the daughter of deceased Playboy Playmate Anna Nicole Smith, Court TV reported.

The former 39-year-old reality television star died Feb. 8 after collapsing

in a Florida hotel, sparking the

custody case.

According to Court TV.com, a Bahamian judge Tuesday ordered a DNA test on Dannielynn to identify the father.

Officials at DNA Diagnostic Center on Wednesday would not comment on their role in the case, citing a court-issued gag order.

Baird was hired by freelance photographer Larry Birkhead to independently

determine, according to Court TV, whether the Broward County Medical Examiner's Office extracted enough DNA samples from Smith's body to perform paternity tests.

Baird is on his way to Nassau, Bahamas, where the custody battle continues, Court TV.com reported Monday.

Birkhead and two others — attorney Howard K. Stern and Smith's former bodyguard Alexander Denk — claim to be the baby's father. Stern is listed on Dannielynn's birth certificate as the father

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5112 or mpitman@coxohio.com.