FRSC3350 module 1

Forensic science definition

the application of science and scientific principles to criminal and civil law (and other legal matters)

where did forensic science originate

In 3rd century china, published in the Yi Yu Ji manuscript.

PRE MODERN ERA —> Sung Tz’u: “the washing away of wrongs” (what did it talk about/introduce?)

1. The first known forensic text focused on death investigation

2. It introduced a systematic examination of bodies and injuries (emphasizing observation, anatomy, and evidence based determination of cause of death)

PRE MODERN ERA —> When was “the washing away of wrongs” published

1247 CE

EARLY SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATIONS —> 1543: what happened?

De humani corporis fabrica by andreas Vesalius was published. It established modern human anatomy through systematic dissection, and established the foundation for forensic pathology/trauma interpretation.

EARLY SCIENTIFIC FOUNDATIONS —> 1700’s: what happened?

forensic medicine was taught in european universities

Mathieu Orfila

father of forensic toxicology: solved first case of arsenic poisoinng in 1840.

Alphonse Bertillion

• first system of personal identification in 1879

• Invented the mugshot

Francis Galton

• The first conclusive fingerprint study and classification

• Provided statistical proof that fingerprints are unique in 1892

Leone Lattes

Developed first antibody test for ABO blood groups in 1915

Calvin Goddard

Refined firearms examination techniques on the comparison microscope in the mid 1920’s.

Albert Osborn

Developed the basic principles of document examination in 1910

Walter Mccrone

• used microscope and analytical methods to examine evidence in the 1950’s and 1960’s

• examination of hair/blood/fibre led to the conviction of Wayne Williams

Hans Gross

wrote the first manuscript on the application of scientific disciplines to criminal investigations in 1893.

Edmond Locard

• created the worlds first forensics lab in Lyon France

• First to incorporate Hans Gross’ principles within a lab setting

• CREATED LOCARDS EXCHANGE PRINCIPLE

what is locards exchange principle

every contact leaves a trace: when two objects come in contact there is a transfer or exchange of materials between them.

DNA AND SCIENTIFIC TRANSFORMATION: 1984 (what happened)

sir Alec Jefferys developed DNA profiling

DNA AND SCIENTIFIC TRANSFORMATION: 1986 (what happened)

1st criminal case solved using DNA in the UK

DNA AND SCIENTIFIC TRANSFORMATION: 1990’s

DNA profiling adopted globally (including Canada)

Science based disciplines (6 of them)

1. biology

2. chemistry

3. toxicology

4. ballistics

5. DNA

6. Medicolegal examinations

science based discipline (sub specialty)

Criminalistics: lab scientists objectively apply natural and physical science techniques to process/examine/analyze physical evidence for court.

non science based disciplines (8 of them)

1. firearm identification

2. hair and fibre analysis

3. bitemark analysis

4. fingerprint analysis

5. questioned document

6. Toolmark and impression analysis

7. crime scene identification

8. physical matching

The role of forensic science in the criminal justice system

to provide objective science based information that helps the system make informed and fair decisions

Key roles of forensic science in criminal justice system (6 of them)

1. crime scene investigation: identifying, documenting, and preserving physical evidence properly

2. Lab analysis: examining evidence using validated scientific methods

3. interpretation of evidence: explaining what the evidence shows, and its limitations, without bias or speculation

4. supporting investigations: helping investigators reconstruct events, link people/places/objects, or exclude suspects

5. expert testimony: communicating scientific findings clearly and accurately to judges and juries

6. post conviction review: re-examining evidence in appeals, cold cases, or wrongful convictions

Core ethical principles in forensic science (4 of them)

1. objectivity and impartiality: must remain neutral and avoid bias, regardless of who requests the analysis

2. accuracy and honesty: all analyses/reports/testimonies must be truthful, complete, and scientifically sound

3. Transparency and accountability: methods, limitations, and uncertainties must be clearly documented and disclosed

4. Respect for evidence: proper handling and preservation of evidence are essential to prevent contamination or loss.

Professional responsibilities in forensic science (4 of them)

1. follow established standards and procedures: adhere to validated methods, lab protocols, and quality assurance systems

2. maintain competence: engage in ongoing education, training, and skill development

3. clear communication: present findings in reports and court testimony in a way that is accurate, understandable, and unbiased

4. Duty to the court and the truth: The primary obligation is to justice, not to police/prosecution/defense/personal outcomes.