Forensic Science Forum

Networking is important for forensic science practitioners and to students who hope to enter the field. There are many fine professional organizations to choose from. The following is an abbreviated list of ones to consider: (continue reading…)

Forensic science continues to be a sought after career path. Two academic tracks are worth consideration for anyone considering forensic science as a professional goal: undergraduate or graduate studies in traditional science programs (chemistry, biology, bio-chemistry, and the like) or more specialize academic program which focus more heavily on forensic science elements.

  (continue reading…)

In your opinion, what are the main causes for casework backlogs? What solutions have you tried and did they work? If not, why not?

The Nassau County Police laboratory, the Forensic Evidence Bureau (FEB) was shut down after critical reports by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASLCD/LAB) and a subsequent review by the New York State Inspector General. The IG report may be reviewed at: (continue reading…)

What does the closure of the Forensic Science Service labs mean for the UK and other forensic services, world wide? (continue reading…)

In September 2009 we reported that the U.S. Supreme Court held in the Melendez-Diaz case that expert testimony falls under the 6th Amendment that gives the right of the defendant the right to face adverse witnesses and to cross examine them. Since that time, new cases have come forward. In June 2011, the U.S. Supreme Court Case, Bullcoming v. New Mexico, ruled as follows: (continue reading…)

Forensic DNA testing has seen the use of statistics in forensic science beginning with the start of DNA testing, only about 20 years ago. This is a new area for experts to educate lay juries in how to interpret what constitutes a “match” between two items of evidence.

How do we adapt our methods to a (possibly new kind of) statistical basis and (2) how do we best communicate statistical results to laypersons?

(continue reading…)

So you want to be a forensic scientist. You regularly watch all the CSI shows, Law and Order, reality TV shows about the work that goes on in crime labs and decided: this is for me!

(continue reading…)

The jury handed down its verdict on the Casey Anthony trial last week. Ms. Anthony was charged with murdering her 2 year old daughter. The evidence suggested there was foul play, but the prosecution was unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she murdered the child.

Some are comparing this case to the O.J. Simpson trial where another jury decided that the evidence was not strong enough to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. And both defense teams did outstanding jobs to convince the jury that the prosecution did not sustain their burden.

Those who are shocked by this verdict might ponder the words of Benjamin Franklin who is quoted as saying: “that it is better [one hundred] guilty persons should escape than that one innocent Person should suffer.” That ultimately is the strength in our criminal justice system. We are willing to make difficult choices in the face of seemingly strong evidence. (continue reading…)

Familial DNA testing has solved some major cases in recent months. In a California case, a series of rape-murders remained unsolved until the authorities used familial DNA testing to locate the suspect. (continue reading…)