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What is Forensics?

What is Forensics?. The application of science to law. In other words, applying the knowledge and technology of science to the definition and enforcement of laws. Criminalist is another term for forensic scientist . History of Forensics.

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What is Forensics?

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  1. What is Forensics? The application of science to law. In other words, applying the knowledge and technology of science to the definition and enforcement of laws. Criminalist is another term for forensic scientist

  2. History of Forensics Limited Knowledge of anatomy and pathology hampered the development of forensic science until the late 1600’s, early 1700’s. Late 1600’s people researched the nature of fingerprints Late 1700’s people researched toxicology (poisons and their affect on animals) Early 1800’s the microscope was developed Mid-late 1800’s photography was used in forensics

  3. Anthropometry is used to distinguish one individual from another – systematic procedure which involved taking a series of body measurements. Using fingerprints to distinguish one individual from another Sherlock Holmes – not a real person…but popularized scientific crime detection methods Early 1900’s blood types were discovered and document analysis accepted in court

  4. 1910 – Edmond Locard started a police laboratory He came up with “Locard’s Exchange Principle” which says, when two objects come into contact with each other, a cross-transfer of materials occurs. Microscope advances Knowledge about DNA Computerized databases for fingerprints, bullets, shell casings, and DNA

  5. Example of the variety of Scientific Disciplines involved in Forensics

  6. Types of Evidence

  7. Direct Evidence • Includes firsthand observations • Eyewitness accounts • Video • Confessions

  8. Circumstantial • Indirect evidence that can be used to imply a fact, but does not directly prove it. • Can be either Physical or Biological

  9. Physical Evidence • Impressions: fingerprints, footprints, shoe prints, tire impressions, tool marks. • Fibers • Weapons • Bullets • Shell casings

  10. Biological Evidence • Body fluids • Hair • Plant parts • Natural fibers • DNA • More persuasive in court than physical evidence

  11. Class Evidence • Narrows an identity to a group of persons or things. • ABO blood type

  12. Individual Evidence • Narrows the identity to a single person or thing • Fingerprint • DNA

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