Bridges: Forensics: Chemistry and Crime


Book Description

Learn about the tools and methods used by forensic scientists to solve crimes.




Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States


Book Description

Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.




Light in Forensic Science


Book Description

The identification and quantification of material present and collected at a crime scene are critical requirements in investigative analyses. Forensic analysts use a variety of tools and techniques to achieve this, many of which use light. Light is not always the forensic analyst’s friend however, as light can degrade samples and alter results. This book details the analysis of a range of molecular systems by light-based techniques relevant to forensic science, as well as the negative effects of light in the degradation of forensic evidence, such as the breakage of DNA linkages during DNA profiling. The introductory chapters explain how chemiluminescence and fluorescence can be used to visualise samples and the advantages and limitations of available technologies. They also discuss the limitations of our knowledge about how light could alter the physical nature of materials, for example by breaking DNA linkages during DNA profiling or by modifying molecular structures of polymers and illicit drugs. The book then explains how to detect, analyse and interpret evidence from materials such as illicit drugs, agents of bioterrorism, and textiles, using light-based techniques from microscopy to surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Edited by active photobiological and forensic scientists, this book will be of interest to students and researchers in the fields of photochemistry, photobiology, toxicology and forensic science.




Forensic Criminology


Book Description

Forensic Criminology gives students of criminology and criminal justice an introduction to the forensic realm and the applied forensic issues they will face when working cases within the justice system. It effectively bridges the theoretical world of social criminology with the applied world of the criminal justice system. While most of the competing textbooks on criminology adequately address the application and the social theory to the criminal justice system, the vast majority do not include casework or real-world issues that criminologists face. This book focuses on navigating casework in forensic contexts by case-working criminologists, rather than broad social theory. It also allows criminology/criminal justice instructors outside of the forensic sciences the ability to develop and instruct a core course that might otherwise be considered beyond their expertise, or in conflict with forensic courses taught in chemistry, biology, or medical programs at their institutions because of its focus on criminology and criminal justice careers. With its practical approach, this textbook is well-suited for forensic criminology subjects being taught and developed in law, criminology, and criminal justice programs around the world. - Approaches the study of criminology from an applied standpoint, moving away from the purely theoretical - Contains relevant and contemporary case examples to demonstrate the application of forensic criminology - Provides an integrated philosophy with respect to criminology, forensic casework, criminal investigations, and the law - Useful for students and professionals in the area of criminology, criminal justice, criminal investigation, forensic science, and the law




Forensic Chemistry Handbook


Book Description

A concise, robust introduction to the various topics covered by the discipline of forensic chemistry The Forensic Chemistry Handbook focuses on topics in each of the major chemistry-related areas of forensic science. With chapter authors that span the forensic chemistry field, this book exposes readers to the state of the art on subjects such as serology (including blood, semen, and saliva), DNA/molecular biology, explosives and ballistics, toxicology, pharmacology, instrumental analysis, arson investigation, and various other types of chemical residue analysis. In addition, the Forensic Chemistry Handbook: Covers forensic chemistry in a clear, concise, and authoritative way Brings together in one volume the key topics in forensics where chemistry plays an important role, such as blood analysis, drug analysis, urine analysis, and DNA analysis Explains how to use analytical instruments to analyze crime scene evidence Contains numerous charts, illustrations, graphs, and tables to give quick access to pertinent information Media focus on high-profile trials like those of Scott Peterson or Kobe Bryant have peaked a growing interest in the fascinating subject of forensic chemistry. For those readers who want to understand the mechanisms of reactions used in laboratories to piece together crime scenes—and to fully grasp the chemistry behind it—this book is a must-have.




Forensic Science


Book Description

Forensic Science: The Basics, Fourth Edition is fully updated, building on the popularity of the prior editions. The book provides a fundamental background in forensic science, criminal investigation and court testimony. It describes how various forms of evidence are collected, preserved and analyzed scientifically, and then presented in court based on the analysis of the forensic expert. The book addresses knowledge of the natural and physical sciences, including biology and chemistry, while introducing readers to the application of science to the justice system. New topics added to this edition include coverage of the formation and work of the NIST Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSACs), new sections on forensic palynology (pollen), forensic taphonomy, the opioid crisis, forensic genetics and genealogy, recent COVID-19 fraud schemes perpetrated by cybercriminals, and a wholly new chapter on forensic psychology. Each chapter presents a set of learning objectives, a mini glossary, and acronyms. While chapter topics and coverage flow logically, each chapter can stand on its own, allowing for continuous or selected classroom reading and study. Forensic Science, Fourth Edition is an ideal introductory textbook to present forensic science principles and practices to students, including those with a basic science background without requiring prior forensic science coursework.




Modern Forensic Tools and Devices


Book Description

MODERN FORENSIC TOOLS AND DEVICES The book offers a comprehensive overview of the latest technologies and techniques used in forensic investigations and highlights the potential impact of these advancements on the field. Technology has played a pivotal role in advancing forensic science over the years, particularly in modern-day criminal investigations. In recent years, significant advancements in forensic tools and devices have enabled investigators to gather and analyze evidence more efficiently than ever. Modern Forensic Tools and Devices: Trends in Criminal Investigation is a comprehensive guide to the latest technologies and techniques used in forensic science. This book covers a wide range of topics, from computer forensics and personal digital assistants to emerging analytical techniques for forensic samples. A section of the book provides detailed explanations of each technology and its applications in forensic investigations, along with case studies and real-life examples to illustrate their effectiveness. One critical aspect of this book is its focus on emerging trends in forensic science. The book covers new technologies such as cloud and social media forensics, vehicle forensics, facial recognition and reconstruction, automated fingerprint identification systems, and sensor-based devices for trace evidence, to name a few. Its thoroughly detailed chapters expound upon spectroscopic analytical techniques in forensic science, DNA sequencing, rapid DNA tests, bio-mimetic devices for evidence detection, forensic photography, scanners, microscopes, and recent advancements in forensic tools. The book also provides insights into forensic sampling and sample preparation techniques, which are crucial for ensuring the reliability of forensic evidence. Furthermore, the book explains the importance of proper sampling and the role it plays in the accuracy of forensic analysis. Audience The book is an essential resource for forensic scientists, law enforcement officials, and anyone interested in the advancements in forensic science such as engineers, materials scientists, and device makers.




Cases on Forensic and Criminological Science for Criminal Detection and Avoidance


Book Description

As global criminology evolves, new questions arise. How can policymakers and law enforcement agencies leverage criminological insights to formulate effective crime prevention strategies? How do international collaborations in forensic science contribute to a more robust global criminal justice framework? Cases on Forensic and Criminological Science for Criminal Detection and Avoidance beckons readers into the fascinating world of forensic science and criminology. Distinguished authors span multi-level experience as practitioners, researchers, and academics, and they examine the multifaceted dimensions of criminal detection and avoidance. Contributors, hailing from globally recognized institutions such as the British Criminology Association, Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, and American Criminology Association, navigate the complex intersections of forensic science and criminology, exploring the latest criminal detection and avoidance advancements. Moreover, the book examines the practical implications of research findings. This book is ideal for academics, practitioners, policymakers, students, and professionals in criminology, forensic science, and criminal justice seeking a comprehensive exploration of contemporary criminal detection and avoidance issues.




Advances in Analytical Techniques for Forensic Investigation


Book Description

This book is essential for anyone seeking to understand and apply the latest analytical techniques in forensic investigation, saving time, materials, energy, and manpower by providing guidance on the most appropriate techniques for different types of investigations. Advances in Analytical Techniques for Forensic Investigation is aimed to describe the applicability of different types of analytical techniques used for the forensic investigation, including FT-IR, chromatography, mass spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, UV- vis spectroscopy, etc. This book will focus on current and emerging developments in the latest analytical techniques and methods used in the forensic investigation and sample analysis of various physical, chemical, and biological samples in order to facilitate the smooth conduction of justice.




Forensic Identification and Criminal Justice


Book Description

This book provides an account of the development of forensic identification technologies and the way in which this has impacted upon the legal system. It traces the advent of forensic identification technologies, focusing on fingerprinting and forensic DNA typing, and their growing deployment within the criminal justice system. It also elucidates the ways in which these new technologies are accelerating procedural changes to investigative practices, and shows the ways in which in some areas human rights (such as privacy rights and rights against discrimination) are coming under threat. The use of forensic evidence in criminal investigations and trials is analysed in detail. This book uncovers the way in which this new reliance on forensic technologies has gained a foothold within the criminal justice system, and the risks and dangers that this can pose. The National DNA Database provides a particular focus of attention. The author seeks to move beyond an approach that has seen forensic DNA profiling as error free, situating her analysis within broader risk discourses.