Forensic science, as the branch of science dedicated to the investigation of crime scenes, utilizes various scientific techniques and methods to analyze evidence and solve criminal cases, including murder.
Forensic scientists are those who analyze crime scenes using scientific methods and technology. They are responsible for providing evidence from the crime scene to assist with legal procedures.
There are a vast number of methods used in forensic science, here are some of the most common ones:-
- Fingerprint — Every person has a unique fingerprint, and fingerprint analysis is one of the most common techniques used in forensic science. This process involves comparing the fingerprints found at a crime scene, known as latent fingerprints, to those of the criminal. The first step in fingerprint analysis is to determine whether the latent fingerprint has enough detail for further analysis, as most latent fingerprints are often smudged. If the fingerprint has enough details, the fingerprint analysis expert compares the structure (size, shape, and pattern) of the latent fingerprint to that of the suspect’s fingerprint, thus providing crucial information about the crime.
- DNA Analysis — Just like fingerprints, each person’s DNA is unique. DNA can be analyzed from any biological evidence, including hair, blood, and skin cells. Samples of biological evidence from the crime scene and the suspect are collected and analyzed by a DNA analyst. Multiple biological samples can be found at a single crime scene, requiring extensive analysis and expertise.
- Blood Pattern Analysis — This technique is mostly used in murder cases, as it often involves blood samples. Modern software like Hemostat is used to determine the pattern of blood in cases involving criminal weapons like bullets and sharp knives. This helps precisely determine what happened at the time of the incident.
In conclusion, forensic science is a vital component of the criminal justice system, offering invaluable evidence and expertise from crime scenes, thereby assisting in legal procedures.
-Suhani Kashyap
Sources:
- https://www.aafs.org/careers-forensic-science/what-forensic-science
- https://www.britannica.com/science/forensic-science
- https://www.nist.gov/forensic-biometrics#:~:text=Investigators%20have%20been%20using%20the,assessing%20how%20similar
%20they%20are. - https://www.forensicsciencesimplified.org/dna/how.html
- https://www.forensicsciencesimplified.org/blood/principles.html
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