what is Forensic Science future of fotensic science
1. FORENSIC SCIENCE: SOLVING CRIMES WITH
SCIENCE
What is Forensic Science?
Forensic science is the application of scientific principles and
techniques to solve crimes and legal matters. It involves
collecting, analyzing, and interpreting physical evidence from
crime scenes to help identify suspects, understand how
crimes were committed, and support legal proceedings.
2. Role of Forensic Science
The role of forensic science is crucial in solving
crimes, supporting justice, and ensuring the
integrity of legal proceedings. Some of these are
as follows:-
Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence
Collection
Analysis of Physical Evidence
Identification of Victims and Suspects
Determining Cause and Time of Death
3. Key Disciplines in Forensic
Science
1. Criminalistics: Analysis of physical evidence (e.g.,
fingerprints, hair, blood).
2. Toxicology: Study of drugs, alcohol, poisons.
3. DNA Analysis: Identification through genetic material.
4. Forensic Pathology: Determining the cause of death.
5. Forensic Anthropology: Identifying human remains.
6. Digital Forensics: Recovering and analyzing digital
data from devices.
4. Role of a Forensic Scientist
The role of a forensic scientist is critical in the investigation
and resolution of criminal cases. Forensic scientists apply
scientific principles and techniques to collect, analyze, and
interpret evidence that can support or disprove theories
related to crimes. Here are the key aspects of their role:
Evidence Collection and Preservation
Analysis of Physical Evidence
Interpreting Results
Maintaining Chain of Custody
Expert Testimony in Court
Providing Objectivity and Impartiality
5. Forensic Science in Action
(Case Study)
Background: In 1985, Gary Dotson was convicted of a rape he did
not commit based on the victim's testimony. He was sentenced to 25
years in prison. However, new forensic technology and DNA testing
in the 1990s led to the Innocence Project taking up his case.
Forensic Science Involved:
1. DNA testing of evidence from the crime scene (semen on the
victim's clothing) that had not been previously tested during the
original investigation.
2. Comparison of the DNA to that of Gary Dotson, which did not
match.
Outcome:
1. The DNA evidence exonerated Dotson, proving his innocence.
2. He was released from prison after serving nearly 10 years for a
crime he did not commit.
