1. Forensic Science The Search For Hidden Truths “In school, every period ends with a bell. Every sentence ends with a period. Every crime ends with a sentence.” ---- Stephen Wright, comedian

2. Forensic Science The study and application of science to matters of law Includes the business of providing timely, accurate, and thorough information to all levels of decision makers in our criminal justice system The word forensic is derived from the Latin forensis meaning forum, a public place where, in Roman times, senators and others debated, performed, and held judicial proceedings.

3. Meet Inspector Beaudeaux… He would like to introduce you to the world of forensic science.

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5. So, what’s a forensic scientist?

6. A forensic scientist studies and analyzes physical evidence used in criminal court cases.

7. Many accused criminals are found either innocent or guilty based on the strength of evidence that a forensic scientist provides.

8. Forensic Scientists can specialize in a variety of different areas: Studying blood for presence of drugs, alcohol, or toxinsStudying blood for presence of drugs, alcohol, or toxins Performing DNA analysis on hair & body fluidsPerforming DNA analysis on hair & body fluids Examining documents to determine if forgery occurredExamining documents to determine if forgery occurred

9. Matching fingerprintsMatching fingerprints Identifying type of firearm or tool used in a crimeIdentifying type of firearm or tool used in a crime Determining results of polygraph testsDetermining results of polygraph tests

10. What personal attributes are desirable in a good forensic scientist?

11. Detail-oriented & organizedDetail-oriented & organized (it may be that one small detail that leads to the accused being found either innocent or guilty) Patient & thoroughPatient & thorough (must perform variety of time-consuming / comprehensive tests on evidence) Proficient in science & mathProficient in science & math (these concepts are the backbone of forensic science)

12. Skilled at research & writingSkilled at research & writing (need to prepare reports based on findings) Excellent communicatorExcellent communicator (explain & are cross-examined about findings) Curious and creative-mindedCurious and creative-minded (looking at situation in different ways is necessary for solving crimes)

13. The inspector’s partner wants you to know some the job advantages of forensic scientists.

14. You have a high level of responsibilityYou have a high level of responsibility Every case is uniqueEvery case is unique You get to implement & validate new techniquesYou get to implement & validate new techniques You’re not confined to an office spaceYou’re not confined to an office space

15. There are also some disadvantages.

16. Some cases are gruesome and distressingSome cases are gruesome and distressing Number of cases varies, so its difficult to control work loadNumber of cases varies, so its difficult to control work load You have to go to court & spend time waiting to testifyYou have to go to court & spend time waiting to testify Journalists may call at your homeJournalists may call at your home