Transcript INTRODUCTION TO:

INTRODUCTION TO:
What is Forensic Science?


Forensic science is the study and
application of science to matters of
law.
Criminalistics is another term you
can use for forensic science. They
are interchangeable.
EOS
What is Forensic Science?
The job of a forensic scientist is to:
1.
2.
study the different types of evidence
found at a crime scene.
Testify as an expert witness at a trial or
hearing by:




3.
Presenting data
Weighs evidence
Gives an impartial opinion of the court
Consults with other scientist in all scientific fields.
Train and educate other forensic
scientists.
EOS
Scientific fields that apply to
forensic science:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Anthroplology: The study of the origin
and behavior of societies and cultures.
Psychiatry: Concerned with the study,
treatment, and prevention of disorders of
the mind.
Odontology: Bites marks and dentistry.
Engineering: The application of science
in designing things.
Computer technology.
EOS
Scientific fields that apply to
forensic science:
6.
7.
8.
Pathology: The causes, nature, and
effects of diseases.
Geology: The study of science dealing
with the physical nature and history of
the earth.
Environmental science: The branch of
biology concerned with the relations
between organisms and their
enviornment.
EOS
Scientific fields that apply to
forensic science:
9.
10.
11.
12.
Entomology: The study of insects
as related to the cause of death.
Palynology: The study of pollen and
spores.
Polygraphy: The use of a lie
detector.
Voice print analysis.
EOS
CRIME LABORATORY


A crime laboratory is a laboratory
where experts analyze, identify, and
interpret evidence connected with a
crime.
There are 5 major crime laboratories
in the United States.
EOS
5 Major Crime Labs in the USA

Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
• This is the largest crime lab in the world.
• It is under the Department of Justice.
• Houses and controls CODIS (Combined DNA index
systerm)
• Investigates each of the following:







Trace evidence
Metallurgy
Questionable documents
Paints
Tool marks
Toxicology
Facial reconstruction Cryptoanalysis
Drug records
Shoe print database
Racketeering (examinations of documents concerning loan
sharking, internet gambling, prostitution, sports
bookmaking)
Training in crime scene investigation and forensic science.
EOS
5 Major Crime Labs in the USA

Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
• National Forensic Laboratory Information
System (NFLIS) Collects results from drug
analyses conducted by State and Local forensic
laboratories across the country.
• NFLIS is a unique source of information for
monitoring and understanding drug trafficking
in the US, including the diversion of legally
manufactured drugs into illegal markets.
EOS
5 Major Crime Labs in the USA

U.S. Postal Service
• Crimes involving the mail.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Forensic
Laboratory
• Only lab in the world dedicated to crimes
against wildlife.
EOS
5 Major Crime Labs in the USA

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and
Explosives
(ATF or BATF)
• Crimes involving sale and use of alcohol,
weapons, explosives (including arson), and
organized crime.
• Under the Department of Justice
• Integrated Ballistic Identification System.
EOS
How do Criminalists Analyze?



They use the scientific method for problem
solving.
This is a step by step process, that allows
a specific question to be answered.
The forensic scientist must come up with a
theory or opinion that is able to stand up
to scientific and legal scrutiny.
EOS
The Scientific Method





1. Observe a problem or questioned
evidence and collect objective data.
2. Consider a hypothesis (a testable
solution to the problem).
3. Examine, test, and analyze to support
or refute hypothesis.
4. Use deductive reasoning to determine
the significance of the evidence.
5. Evaluate and verify all evidence.
EOS
Kinds of Law in the U.S. Criminal
Justice System
Statutory Law: Written law or “Law on
the books”. These are based on the
Constitution.
 Common Law: also known as case law.
The body of law made up of judicial
opinions and precedents.
 Criminal Law: regulation and enforcement
of rights setting the acceptable limits of
conduct in society.
EOS

Kinds of Law in the U.S. Criminal
Justice System



Civil Law: deals with noncriminal suits
brought to protect or preserve a civil or
private right or matter.
Equity Law: the is preventative, such as a
restraining order. These are for cases not
covered by common law.
Administrative Law: These are laws
established by agencies (IRS, SSA, or
military braches).
EOS
Types of Crimes




EOP
There are 3 types of crimes.
Infractions: These are minor offenses such as jaywalking,
traffic violations, and littering.
Misdemeanors: Are punishable by no more than one year
in jail. Fines may range from $250 - $2500. Community
service may also be assigned. Vandalism, shoplifting,
simple assault, trespassing, or prostitution can be
misdemeanors.
Felonies: More serious crimes that carry stiffer penalties.
Arson, aggravated assault, burglary, robbery, homicide, and
rape are all felonies.