Media conduct in homicide investigations is a complex issue. On one hand, the media can be an important instrument for generating valuable information from the general public. On the other hand, dealing with the media can take up limited time, energy and resources during the critical early stages of an investigation. Through this comprehensive research paper, I will be able to identify the impacts that the media has on homicide investigations. The media can help some cases and can hurt others.
Both prosecutors and law enforcement, sometimes knowingly ignore this behavior, in hopes that their testimony will secure a conviction in their favor. Law enforcement who work closely with the crime lab in their department will often try to influence Pathologists to tailor their analysis and testing of evidence to suit their needs in assurance of a solid conviction. Consequently, Pathologists are criminally mishandling and presenting false testimony of the evidence and tests. Regardless of their underpinning of excuses, we must find some means of addressing these issues on a broader scope within the criminal justice system. Dr. Ralph Erdmann is a prime example of one who would
Here we will be discussing the potential advantages of using Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy, compared to the current destructive techniques being used in body fluid analysis. Introduction The ability to detect body fluids at a crime scene is very important in the field of forensic science. Body fluids give insight into the nature of the crime, as well as identify those present at the crime scene. Further DNA analysis of these fluids helps authorities identify the victim and assailant, and provides evidence that can be used to convict the perpetrator. The most common types of body fluids found at crime scenes are blood, semen, and saliva (Virkler and Lednev, June 2008).
* * * * * Research Process and Terminology * ME * CJA/334 * March 5, 2014 * Dennis Dougan * Research Process and Terminology * How will this new terminology and knowledge apply to a career in criminal justice? Essentially, understanding the terminology that is associated with a specific career path is important because of the use it gets in the line of work. In criminal justice and other social science careers, the terminology carries over and without understanding it completely, terminology can hinder research capabilities as well as understanding previous research materials. Although different criminal justice careers have their own terminology based on their line of work, the research terminology is nearly universal. How can not knowing the proper terminology affect you as you conduct criminal justice research?
Using material from Item C and elsewhere, assess the strengths and limitations of using covert observation as a means of investigating court proceedings. Covert observation is where a researcher observes the particular group they’re collecting research on whilst disguising their true identity as to better fit in. An advantage of covertly observing persons involved in court proceedings such as criminals, judges, juries and police is it that it is the most effective method for ensuring there is no Hawthorne effect. Participants may feel hostile towards a researcher who is acting overtly. Criminals especially those who are going through court proceedings may not feel comfortable disclosing certain information to someone they know to be a researcher.
Something that I found very interesting with this video is that it seems to me that it is yet another example of a “crime scene investigation” style show and that is something that can cause a proble later. As we talked about the worry with these types of shows is that they can case the CSI effect on potential jourors. This style show in particular is one that I would worry about since it is showing the investigation of a real case unlike those that are seen on “CSI” or “NCIS” those are based on fake stories and people are less likely to see that as the way that things are done. Forensic science and its developments help the detectives find the crime scene, test and gather testimonial and physical evidence, and reenact the crime scene to help interrogation. Long after the crime scene is gone, investigators can virtually return to the scene of the crime to test out theories and compare evidence results to an investigation that leads to a confession.
According to forensic scientist’s, the strings themselves are not as substantial. However, they are clearly a form to help investigators and analysts draw a closure in reference to a substance that is often found at a crime scene: blood. In addition, the population has been converted to believe blood samples are used to ID someone through DNA. However, the blood in general, where it settled, how it settled, its consistency, the size and form of the blood globule, or spatter can conclude a lot of meaningful aspects of the offense. In addition, analyzing a blood splatter or pattern is not as uncomplicated as fictional bloodstain pattern analysts.
Technology has turned into a really important tool in the daily routine for policy officers. This is the reason that police candidates have to be literate in technological advances such as mapping and Comp Stat. This is a technology that maps out the city and shows the areas where most crimes occur. Technology aids police officers in identifying criminals and lookup their criminal records. Legal knowledge is very important for police officers to have an understanding in law like rules of evidence and the fourth amendment that protects individuals from illegal search and seizures.
What are the problems with non-interrogatory forms of evidence? Choose two forms of non-interrogatory evidence to discuss. Having enough evidence is key in charging, prosecution and finally conviction of criminals, unfortunately most cases result in the police needing and wanting more evidence. Due to insufficient evidence the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) will not be pursued cases further, even if the police believe they have the right suspect. However there are other types of evidence collection apart from that of questioning, which falls under the title of non-interrogatory forms of evidence such as surveillance and scientific evidence.
Psychologists argue that there are no bad people, simply bad decisions made by good-natured people. But what about those who fall under abnormal psychology, who have differently wired brains that make them inclined to kill people for their own personal pleasure. Serial killers have become a big phenomena due to being popularized by media. So what makes a serial killer, and why are they so interesting? The most fascinating thing about serial killers themselves is that it is utterly impossible to completely understand them.