Forensic Science

This book is the perfect starting point for any newcomer to the field of forensic science. It examines the entire process of conducting forensic science, from the collection of evidence at the crime scene, through the examination and evaluation of that evidence, to the presentation of scientific findings in court. The book is scientifically rigorous but written in a friendly and engaging style making it the ideal companion for undergraduate students beginning a forensic science course; as background for MSc students; as a reference for related professions such as lawyers or police officers; or simply for the casual reader who wants to learn more about this fascinating area.

Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction to forensic science

Chapter 2: The crime scene

Chapter 3: Trace and contact evidence

Chapter 4: Trace and contact evidence Part II: Fingerprints and other marks and impressions

Chapter 5: The examination of body fluids, including bloodstain pattern analysis

Chapter 6: The analysis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA): DNA profiling

Chapter 7: Forensic toxicology and drugs of abuse

Chapter 8: Questioned documents

Chapter 9: Firearms

Chapter 10: Fires

Chapter 11: Explosions and explosives

Chapter 12: The recovery and forensic examination of human remains

Chapter 13: Statistics and the analysis, interpretation and evaluation of evidence

Chapter 14: Forensic science in court

Professor Andrew Jackson is the Academic Group Leader of Forensic and Crime Science at Staffordshire University, UK.

Dr Julie Jackson is a freelance science writer, with a background in biology.

Dr Harry Mountain (guest author of Chapter 6) is a Senior Lecturer in molecular biology at Staffordshire University, UK, with a special interest in forensic genetics.

Mr Dan Brearley (guest author of Section 2.5, Chapter 2) has acted as a digital forensics expert witness in many cases heard in the Criminal and Civil Courts over the last eight years.