P2R1
100 word response 1 reference/intext citation from the internet
Due 2/21/2025
Charlize
Processing a homicide crime scene requires a comprehensive approach that integrates enhanced forensic methodologies, analytical techniques, and adherence to investigative protocols. There are a number of different forensic and analytical methods used for preserving and interpreting evidence. One method is DNA analysis which includes techniques such as short tandem repeat (STR) analysis, mitochondrial DNA sequencing, and rapid DNA testing that allow for precise identification of suspects and victims. Another method is blood stain analysis, which helps investigators determine the nature of the blood splatter, leading them to reconstruct the events that led up to the homicide. Ballistics and Gunshot Residue (GSR) analysis examines bullet trajectories, firearm discharge patterns, and residue distribution. This helps investigators establish shooting dynamics. Forensic toxicology identifies substances such as drugs, poisons, or alcohol that may have influenced the crime, giving investigators a lead and motive. There is also digital forensics that helps investigators recover electronic evidence, including deleted messages, GPS data, and surveillance footage. In order to reconstruct a crime scene, investigators must balance physical evidence, environmental conditions, and witness testimony. Even though physical evidence provides objective and scientific data it is not enough to convict a person due to the fact that it has a lot of risks such as contamination or scene degradation, which compromises its reliability and integrity. According to Ogle “Reconstruction efforts are only as reliable as the evidence collected and the methods used to interpret it; errors in documentation or analysis can lead to inaccurate conclusions” (2012). Witness accounts can provide context but are often unreliable due to memory distortions, stress, or biases. This is why it is important that investigators integrate every piece of evidence. There are a few different challenges in crime scene investigation such as biases, contamination, and overlooking or misusing evidence. A real life example of forensic enhancements solving a case is the case of Steven Avery. Steven Avery was convicted of sexual assault in 1985, he was then exoncerated in 2003, due to DNA testing. The DNA testing resulted in finding another person as the guilty offender (Strang, 2016). However, later in 2005 Avery was convicted for the murder of Teresa Halbach, with allegations of evidence tampering and investigative bias complicating the case. This case shows the power and limitations of forensic science, by demonstrating how these modern techniques can fix wrongful convictions, while also showing the failures of the criminal justice system and evidence, by offenders tampering with them.
