From Crime Scene to Courtroom: Examining the Mysteries Behind Famous Cases

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Massively parallel” sequencing machines are also a significant advance. These can turn the approximately 3.2 billion DNA “letters” of the human genome into digital information in a matter of hours. The law, judicial system and courtroom process is explored before the students run their own trial during which their own murder investigation is presented. their findings by giving oral evidence. An example of an advantage of the role of a forensic scientists

As a teacher, have you ever been challenged to bring fun, excitement and real experience direct from the workplace into the classroom? The blood samples analysed in the O.J. Simpson trial were typical of the time when large amounts of DNA were required to conduct testing. Today, small amounts of DNA, known as trace DNA, can be analysed from items such as cigarette butts, hair follicles, saliva, semen, and even faeces.

Forensics in the future

interference from people of the public, ranging from simply directing traffic away from a car crash a This makes mitochondrial DNA useful in identifying missing persons - the bones of Daniel Morcombe were identified this way. The day inspires students, gives them focus, confidence and Zakons role models really provide inspiration from real world experience of criminal investigations. an example of a limitation in regards to the use of a forensic scientist during criminal investigations

It is difficult for people to comprehend probabilities like one in a quadrillion, and the presentation of such numbers in court can become prejudicial. The Y chromosome is present only in males and is passed from father to son. This makes Y chromosome STR markers a useful tool in situations such as sexual assault cases where male and female DNA samples might be mixed and the male suspect’s identity needs to be established. that the role of a pathologist is beneficial during criminal investigations because as it can determine The immediate priority to save life, administer first aid and move the victim to hospital for further treatment. These actions will be time critical and subject to the judgement of medical personnel.If scenes are not properly managed, this can distort initial findings and prolong subsequent efforts to identify offenders. Managing the media Equally, the movement of police officers or staff between scenes may cross-contaminate the available material, and confuse or mislead the investigation. If in doubt, officers should seek advice from CSIs or crime scene managers. Internationally, there are moves towards a standard set of 24 markers (such as GlobalFiler). With this many markers, the odds of two people having the same profile (twins excepted) are incredibly small. This makes an STR profile a powerful way to exclude suspects as well as making matches. In the courtroom It may be necessary to search the scene before examination takes place. Protection of life always takes primacy over the preservation and recovery of forensic material.