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Forensic Science

Delve into the world of forensic science with Inspector Beaudeaux and learn how forensic scientists study physical evidence for criminal cases to determine facts and truth. Explore various forensic science specialties and the desirable attributes of a forensic scientist, along with the job advantages and disadvantages. Discover the different forensic science specialties and examine real crime scene photos and tools used by forensic pathologists. Get insights into famous forensic scientists like Dr. Henry Lee.

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Forensic Science

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  1. Forensic Science The Search For Hidden Truths

  2. Meet Inspector Beaudeaux… He would like to introduce you to the world of forensic science.

  3. Follow me . . .

  4. So, what’s a forensic scientist?

  5. Forensic is a Latin word that means Public Discussion or Debate.

  6. A forensic scientist studies and analyzes physical evidence used in criminal court cases.

  7. Many accused criminals are found either innocent or guilty based on the strength of evidence that a forensic scientist provides. The goal is to determine facts and truth.

  8. Forensic Scientists use multiple science specialties: • Studying blood for presence of drugs, alcohol, or toxins • Performing DNA analysis on hair & body fluids (newest techniques) • Doing an autopsy to determine why and how the person died (earliest technique)

  9. Studying bones to determine victim’s age, gender, race, and height • Studying teeth to determine identification of victim and age • Determining results of polygraph tests

  10. What personal attributes are desirable in a good forensic scientist?

  11. Detail-oriented & organized • (it may be that one small detail that leads to the accused being found either innocent or guilty) • Patient & thorough • (must perform variety of time-consuming / comprehensive tests on evidence) • Proficient in science & math • (these concepts are the backbone of forensic science)

  12. Skilled at research & writing • (need to prepare reports based on findings) • Excellent communicator • (explain & are cross-examined about findings) • Curious and creative-minded • (looking at situation in different ways is necessary for solving crimes)

  13. The inspector’s partner wants you to know some the job advantages of forensic scientists.

  14. You have a high level of responsibility • Every case is unique • You get to implement & validate new techniques • You’re not confined to an office space

  15. There are also some disadvantages.

  16. Some cases are gruesome and distressing • Number of cases varies, so its difficult to control work load • You have to go to court & spend time waiting to testify • Journalists may call at your home

  17. What are some of the forensic science specialties?

  18. Forensic Pathologist A medical doctor who performs autopsies to determine cause of death.

  19. Forensic Psychologist Evaluates and treats patients in context of legal issues.

  20. Forensic Anthropologist Identifies and reconstructs bones; determines gender, age, & cause of death.

  21. Criminalist Analyzes, compares, identifies, & interprets physical evidence at crime scenes.

  22. Forensic Entomologist Uses insects that inhabit decomposing bodies to determine time of death.

  23. Forensic Engineer Investigates & reports on accidents or structural failures that may have criminal implications.

  24. Forensic Odontologist (Dentist) Helps identify bodies by looking at their teeth.

  25. Forensic Nurse Provides treatment for crime victims. They are especially needed in emergency rooms to gather and package criminal evidence.

  26. Forensic Toxicologist Analyses alcohol, drugs, & poisons in body fluids for the benefit of the courts.

  27. Wildlife Forensic Scientist Forensic scientists who track down criminals who harm wild animals.

  28. Here are some forensic science photos--some are from actual crime scenes:

  29. Defense Wounds #1 Defense wounds on the hand of a victim whose assailant was attacking with a knife.

  30. Defense Wound #2 Here is a typical "defense wound" on the forearm of the victim of an assault with a sharp weapon, producing the laceration.

  31. Defense Posture Scene illustrates mechanism for "defense wounds".

  32. Clay Model Used to Demonstrate Knife Wounds single edge knife wound double edge knife wound

  33. Stab Wound: Single Edge Blade Sharp edge of blade

  34. Deadly blow to head that resulted in fractured skull and bleeding.

  35. Fractured Liver: Blunt Force Injury

  36. Natural Death:*Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast

  37. *Pathologist’s photo of embryo (ectopic pregnancy)

  38. Forensic Pathologist’s Tools of the Trade

  39. More autopsy tools…

  40. Stryker Saw:good for cutting into skull

  41. Digital Imagery Reconstruction:Use of computer superimposes photo of skull with outer skin.

  42. Facial reconstruction technique used by forensic artists.

  43. Some forensic scientists participate in high profile cases and become famous.

  44. Meet Dr. Henry Lee--one of the world’s most renowned forensic pathologists.

  45. The Inspector hopes you enjoyed learning about the world of forensic science.

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