Chapter 1: Intro to Forensic Science & Criminalistics

Forensic Science

the application of scientific principles & techniques to matters of criminal justice as relating to the collection, examination, & analysis of physical evidence

Antemortem

conditions or events that occurred before a persons death

What does AFIS stand for?

AuAutomated Fingerprint Identification System

AFIS

computerized system that uses digital imaging technology to capture, store, & analyze fingerprint data, aiding in the identification of individuals

Certification

a credential demonstrating an individuals specialized knowledge, skills, & competence in specific forensic field

Classification

the process of grouping or categorizing evidence, individuals, ore events based on shared characteristics to facilitate analysis, identification, & comparison

What does CODIS stand for?

Combined DNA Index System

CODIS

an FBI developed software & database used by forensic laboratories to compare DNA profiled, linking crimes to perpetrators & identifying suspects or victims of other cases

Coroner

a public official whose primary duty is to investigate deaths that occur under unusual, suspicious, or unexpected circumstances to determine the cause & manner of death

Corpus Delicti

the body of the crime

Criminalistics

a branch of forensic science focused on the scientific analysis of physical evidence generated by criminal or illegal civil activities

Medical Examiner

a doctor, usually a forensic pathologist, who investigates deaths from suspicious, violent, or sudden causes to determine the cause & manner of death

Medico-legal

the application of medical knowledge & practices to legal matters, investigations, & proceedings, particularly in areas like death, injury, & behavior, to establish facts, causes, & liabilities within the justice system

Modus Operandi (MO)

a specific, habitual pattern of behavior or method a criminal uses to commit crimes

What does NIBIN stand for?

National Integrated Ballistic Information Network

NIBIN

a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives (ATF) program that facilitates the digital comparison of ballistic evidence from crime scenes & test fired weapons to provide investigative leads

Pathology

a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on investigating deaths for legal purposes

Perimortem

injuries occurring at or around the time of death, where the bone is still moist and “green”, exhibiting characteristics like sharp edges & a lack of healing

Postmortem

occurring or performed after death