Introduction to Forensic Science

1. Introduction to Forensic Science Mrs. Loerakker 7th Grade Science

2. What is Forensic Science? • Brainstorm the definition of forensic science. Post definitions and/or ideas about forensic science on the chalkboard.

3. Forensic Science is… • Often called forensics. • Includes collection and processing of evidence within the legal system. • Forensic scientists must be excellent observers, record accurate data, and maintain constant organization.

4. Important Terms • Physical Evidence: any object that is introduced in a trial as evidence. Includes things like fingerprints, clothing and other items found at a crime scene. • Chain of Custody: A forensic scientist must always know where evidence is so that it cannot be tampered with. Scientists keep a log or a chain of custody for the whereabouts of all physical evidence. • Locard Principle: Edmund Locard: If a criminal comes into contact with an object/person, a cross transfer of evidence has happened.

5. Crime Scene Team • Team Leader • Evidence Collector(s) • Photographer • Sketch Artist • In local and state police departments evidence is collected and then processed in an laboratory. Specialists that are trained in specific areas process the evidence.

6. Lab Divisions • Physical Unit: chemistry, physics, and geology. Analyze evidence that is chemical, etc. • Biology Unit: DNA, blood, hair comparison, plants • Firearms Unit: bullets, guns, etc. • Document Unit: Handwriting, computer/typewriter • Photography Unit: Photo lab that documents crime scene. MANY OTHER SPECIALITIES!!!

7. Arch: A fingerprint with no delta (think triangle). 5% of the population have arch fingerprints

8. Loop: A fingerprint with one delta (think triangle). 60-70% of the population have arch fingerprints

9. Whorls: A fingerprint with two deltas (think triangle). 25-35% of the population have arch fingerprints

10. Source http://www.odec.ca/projects/2004/fren4j0/public_html/fingerprint_patterns.htm