Principles of Forensic and Crime Scene Investigation

Module code: ARC4016-B

Module Aims       

To introduce:
(1) the scope, methods and limitations of crime scene examination and forensic enquiry in the crime to court process, 
(2) main evidence types in volume, major and serious crimes
(3) To provide hands-on experience of laboratory casework and crime scene examination

Outline Syllabus   

To outline the aims of evidence collection from a scene of crime to show commonality and individuality of contact trace evidence; to outline the principals involved in the collection, preservation, examination and interpretation of evidence (e.g. fingerprint and footwear impressions, tool-marks, fibres, glass, body fluids, soil, etc.). The module introduces the role of the forensic practitioner and the importance of forensic standards ISO 17020 and ISO 17025.

Lectures: Introduction to Forensic Science, Crime Scene to Court Process. Scenes of Crime: The role of crime scene investigators in the preservation, recovery and recording of evidence at the scene of crime and evaluation of crime scene evidence. Overview of Forensic Science in the UK: Police Forces Scientific Support in relation to other Forensic Agencies. Overview of physical evidence including DNA, Toxicology, footwear and tool marks, finger-marks. Introduction to forensic evidence associated with arson, explosions and firearms. Courts and their structure. Giving expert testimony; evidence-in-chief and cross-examination. Admissibility of forensic evidence in Court: differences between UK and USA. Writing of laboratory reports and expert witness statements. Health and safety issues at scenes and in forensic examination.

Practical:

Practical crime scene examination for different types of simulated crime scene.

Practical examination and recovery of physical evidence in the laboratory including examination of exhibits from a simple simulated case.

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