Podcast
Questions and Answers
The first trained medical examiner in New York City was ______.
The first trained medical examiner in New York City was ______.
Charles Norris
In 1960, Lucas described the application of gas chromatography to the identification of petroleum products in the forensic laboratory in ______.
In 1960, Lucas described the application of gas chromatography to the identification of petroleum products in the forensic laboratory in ______.
Canada
Edmond Locard is considered the father of the ______ laboratory.
Edmond Locard is considered the father of the ______ laboratory.
crime
The philosopher Socrates was condemned to death by drinking ______.
The philosopher Socrates was condemned to death by drinking ______.
The Marsh test, developed in 1836, was the first reliable analysis that could show scientifically that ______ was present in the body of a victim.
The Marsh test, developed in 1836, was the first reliable analysis that could show scientifically that ______ was present in the body of a victim.
The ______ Unit examines firearms and discharged bullets.
The ______ Unit examines firearms and discharged bullets.
Forensic science involves the examination of specimens found at the crime scene like blood, hair, and other types of ______.
Forensic science involves the examination of specimens found at the crime scene like blood, hair, and other types of ______.
The ______ Unit is responsible for the identification and comparison of bloodstains and other body fluids.
The ______ Unit is responsible for the identification and comparison of bloodstains and other body fluids.
The ______ Unit processes evidence for invisible fingerprints.
The ______ Unit processes evidence for invisible fingerprints.
The ______ Unit analyzes body fluids for the presence of drugs and poisons.
The ______ Unit analyzes body fluids for the presence of drugs and poisons.
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Study Notes
History of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
- Lucas introduced gas chromatography in Canada in 1960 for identifying petroleum products, noting limitations in gasoline brand identity.
- In 1976, Zoro and Hadley in the UK evaluated chromatograph-mass spectrometry for forensic applications.
- The first trained medical examiner in New York City was appointed in 1918; Charles Norris was the chief medical examiner, and Alexander Gettler was a chemist who transformed crime detection methods in America.
Ancient Issues in Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
- Poisons were used in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome for murder and executions; Socrates was notably condemned to death via hemlock.
- In 82 B.C.E., Ancient Rome enacted laws against poisoning.
- Arsenic was a common poison, dubbed "inheritance powder" in early France.
- The Blandy trial in 1752 marked the first chemical test for poison.
- The Marsh test, created in 1836, was the first reliable method to demonstrate arsenic in a victim's body.
Importance of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
- Forensic science resolves mysteries of deaths, whether natural or criminal.
- Involves examination of evidence (e.g., blood, hair) at crime scenes linking to perpetrators.
- Aims to identify suspects and reconstruct crime timelines.
Crime Laboratory Overview
- A crime laboratory conducts physical and chemical examinations.
- Edmond Locard is known as the father of crime laboratories.
- Walker McCrone is recognized as the father of microscopic forensics.
Units in the Crime Laboratory
- Physical Science Unit: Analyzes drugs, glass, paint, explosives, and soil.
- Biology Unit: Studies bloodstains, body fluids, hair, fibers, and botanical materials.
- Firearms Unit: Examines firearms, bullets, cartridge cases, and ammunition.
- Document Examination Unit: Analyzes handwriting, typewriting, and document authenticity.
- Photography Unit: Prepares photographic evidence using specialized techniques.
- Toxicology Unit: Examines fluids and organs for drugs and poisons.
- Latent Fingerprint Unit: Processes evidence for latent fingerprints.
- Polygraph Unit: Utilizes interrogation techniques in investigations.
- Voiceprint Analysis Unit: Analyzes recordings using sound spectrographs.
- Evidence Collection Unit: Deploys trained personnel to collect physical evidence from crime scenes.
Expert Witnesses
- Expert witnesses testify based on specialized knowledge in court.
- Must demonstrate competence through education, experience, and professional qualifications.
Role and Scope of Forensic Chemist
- Involves chemical aspects of criminal investigations and legal material analyses.
- The role includes determining clandestine labs, examining evidence for illicit substances, and conducting thorough examinations.
Stages of Forensic Chemistry Practice
- Collection of Specimens: Ensuring proper sampling and preservation.
- Examination: Conducting detailed tests on collected materials.
- Communication: Reporting results clearly.
- Court Presentation: Testifying on findings during trials.
Factors in Specimen Collection
- Sufficiency of Samples: Gather ample specimens for multiple tests.
- Standard for Comparison: Include standard samples for accurate analysis.
- Maintenance of Individuality: Preserve unique characteristics of specimens.
- Labeling and Sealing: Ensure proper identification and integrity of samples.
Golden Rules in Forensic Chemistry Practice
- Go Slow: Prioritize thoroughness over speed for accuracy in investigations.
- Be Thorough: Conduct exhaustive examinations and don’t rely solely on qualitative analyses.
- Take Notes: Maintain accurate records of procedures and findings.
- Consult Others: Seek advice from colleagues when encountering unfamiliar issues.
- Use Imagination: Employ controlled creativity to generate hypotheses while remaining grounded.
- Avoid Complicated Theories: Favor simplicity in explanations for clarity and accuracy.
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