Crime scene to court

Watch online on demand on The Reaction!

Thursday 2 September 2010, 18:00 for 18:30-20.30
The Library, The Chemistry Centre, Burlington House

We've all seen it on TV, but, what role does forensics really play in a criminal investigation? Peter White, consultant and Professor of Forensic Science, reveals all.

People nowadays are interested in and more aware of forensic science. Press coverage of high profile trials including, for example, the death of Damilola Taylor, the Soham murders, and the death of Jill Dando, have provided more insight into forensic science and how it is practiced in the UK.

Forensic science can be defined as "science used for the purpose of law". From the start of any criminal investigation and throughout the whole judicial process, the forensic evidence delivered to the courts must be of the highest standard. The raising of standards and also developments in technology over the years has required changes in procedures and practices. A brief history showing how the provision of a forensic science service in the UK has developed to accommodate these changes will be presented.

The crime scene is the start of any investigation and the importance of scene preservation, recording and searching and the collection and packaging of items will be illustrated. Interestingly, other well established scientific disciplines including archaeology, anthropology, entomology and ecology have provided forensic evidence in some recent cases and as shown these highlight the constant need for appropriate training and investigative skills.

Moving to the next stage of the investigation, the items will be searched and examined and possibly analysed in the laboratory. An insight into this laboratory work will highlight further issues such as the need for appropriate control samples, sample size, selection of appropriate analytical techniques, sequence of analyses, contamination problems and evaluation and interpretation of results.

On completion of this work, Witness Statements will be required from personnel involved in the investigation and in the case of the forensic scientist, they may be required to attend court as an Expert Witness. Frightening, challenging and much more as you will find out.

Watch this lecture on demand on The Reaction.