Introduction to Forensic Science

Introduction to Forensic Science

• Forensic science applies scientific methods to legal matters.
• It uses various disciplines to investigate crimes and collect evidence.
• It aims to provide objective and scientifically sound evidence for justice.

Crime Scene Investigation

• Systematic crime scene investigation is essential.
• Initial steps include documenting layout, condition, and securing the area to prevent contamination.
• Evidence collection adheres to protocols to preserve integrity.
• Evidence types include physical traces (fingerprints, blood, fibers), biological samples (DNA), and impressions (footwear, tire marks).

Fingerprint Analysis

• Fingerprints are unique patterns on fingertips, invaluable for identification.
• Techniques include dusting, lifting, and chemical enhancements.
• Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) are used for comparison and searching.

DNA Analysis

• DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid, has unique genetic information for individuals (except identical twins).
• DNA profiling extracts and analyzes DNA from biological samples (blood, saliva, hair).
• DNA evidence establishes or excludes suspects, identifies victims, and traces familial relationships.

Ballistics

• Ballistics studies the motion, behavior, and effects of projectiles (bullets).
• Firearms identification determines the weapon type.
• Trajectory analysis reconstructs a projectile's path.

Trace Evidence

• Trace evidence includes small items (fibers, hairs, glass, paint, soil).
• Analysis links suspects to crime scenes or eliminates them as suspects.

Toxicology

• Toxicological analysis detects drugs or poisons in bodily fluids or tissues.
• Results determine cause and manner of death.
• This is crucial in poisoning or overdose cases.

Document Examination

• Document examination analyzes documents (signatures, handwriting, typewriting).
• It assesses authenticity and determines if a document is genuine or forged.

Pathology

• Forensic pathology examines cause and manner of death via autopsy.
• Pathologists use methods like microscopy to determine injuries and death causes.

Odontology (Forensic Dentistry)

• Forensic odontology identifies individuals via unique dental structures.
• Dental records are compared to skeletal remains or other evidence.

Entomology (Forensic Entomology)

• Forensic entomology studies insects to determine time since death.
• Insect infestation and development stages are key factors.

Audio and Video Analysis

• Forensic audio and video analysis examines audio and video recordings.
• Sounds and images can help establish events and provide detail.

Digital Forensics

• Digital forensics analyzes digital evidence (computers, phones).
• This includes data recovery, image analysis, and network forensics.

Other Forensic Disciplines

• Other disciplines contribute (anthropology, geology, engineering).

Challenges and Limitations

• Maintaining evidence's chain of custody is crucial.
• Forensic evidence can be contaminated, degraded, or misinterpreted.
• Interpreting evidence demands expertise and considering many factors.
• Technological advancements drive ongoing development.