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 ForensicsLimited 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

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

1910 – Edmond Locard started a police laboratoryHe 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

Example of the variety of Scientific Disciplines involved in Forensics

Types of Evidence

Direct Evidence Includes firsthand observations Eyewitness accounts Video Confessions

Circumstantial Indirect evidence that can be used to imply

a fact, but does not directly prove it. Can be either Physical or Biological

Physical Evidence Impressions: fingerprints, footprints, shoe

prints, tire impressions, tool marks. Fibers Weapons Bullets Shell casings

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

evidence

Class Evidence

Narrows an identity to a group of persons or things.

ABO blood type

Individual Evidence Narrows the identity to a single person or

thing Fingerprint DNA