Introduction to Forensic Science and Criminalistics

Description

Content: Cover Half Title Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Table of Contents Preface to Second Edition Acknowledgments About the Book and Pedagogy Authors Contributors 1 Introduction What is forensic science and what is its role in the justice system? The role of forensic science Definition of forensic science The value of forensic science to society A brief history of forensic science Early applications of forensic science Development of forensic science laboratories and professional organizations The many faces of forensic science Human biological and medical sciences Natural sciences-chemistry, biology, and physicsTechnology and engineering Digital forensic examinations often computer or processor related Nature of forensic science and the scientific method Applicability of scientific method to forensic science and investigation Elements of forensic evidence analysis-the types of results forensic scientists produce Evidence recognition Classification-identification Individualization Reconstruction Forensic ethical concerns and proper professional practice Professional organizations and their functions Professional organizations and their codes of ethicsProfessional practice and ethical concerns of the organizations Ethical responsibilities as scientists Ethics and professional behavior for forensic scientists Key terms Review questions Fill in/multiple choice References and further readings 2 Physical evidence in the legal system How physical evidence is produced Change induced at a scene Exchange of material upon contact Deposits, dispersions, and residues Damage, tears, cuts, breaks, and jigsaw matches Imprints or indentations Striations-dynamic marking Physical evidence-classification and usesIdentification of persons-victim, suspect, others Establish linkages or exclusions Develop modus operandi (MO), leads, and suspects Provide suspects or investigative leads from forensic databases Corroboration-credibility: supporting or disproving statements Identification and analysis of substances or materials Establishing a basis for a crime and criminal prosecution-corpus delicti The physical evidence process Recognition-critical portion of evidence process requires a trained observer Documentation and marking for identification Collection, packaging, and preservationLaboratory analysis Reporting and testimony The criminal justice system and process-case flow Trace the evidence pathway through the system Investigative agency role Adjudicative agency role Importance of physical evidence, particularly scientific evidence Scientific and technical evidence admissibility and the expert witness Admissibility versus weight Requirement of relevance and reliability Daubert case Key terms Review questions Fill in/multiple choice References and further readings 3 Crime scene processing and analysis