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Elsevier

Books in Forensic science general

  • Encyclopedia of Forensic and Legal Medicine

    • 3rd Edition
    • Jason Payne-James + 1 more
    • English
    Encyclopedia of Forensic and Legal Medicine, Third Edition builds on the strength of its predecessor whilst providing a more modern, digital-friendly infrastructure. Unlike the previous A-Z approach to chapter organization, it is thematically structured around sections and topics via a taxonomic approach, thus making navigation far easier for the user. New to this edition are articles encompassing the history, application, future trends, and clinical/pathologica... professional issues of the discipline, including topics on: forensic taphonomy, non-fatal strangulation, coercive control, forensic biology, extrajudicial-summar... or arbitrary executions.This modern, fully up-to-date, easy to navigate edition, with its electronic platform and logistically and consistently structured chapters will be ideal for readers from a variety of disciplines.

  • Forensic Victimology

    Examining Violent Crime Victims in Investigative and Legal Contexts
    • 3rd Edition
    • Brent E. Turvey
    • English
    Forensic Victimology: Examining Violent Crimes in Investigative and Legal Contexts, Third Edition introduces criminologists and criminal investigators to the idea of systematically gathering and examining victim information for the purposes of addressing investigative and forensic issues. The book continues the legacy of the first two editions with both theoretical and applied coverage of the subject of victimology. The specific applications discussed remain investigative and provide legal venues designed to assist investigators and forensic examiners with the task of performing victimological assessments. Sections delve into the areas of femicide and mass shootings, which are global problems that further emphasize related casework and research.

  • Forensic Genetic Approaches for Identification of Human Skeletal Remains

    Challenges, Best Practices, and Emerging Technologies
    • 1st Edition
    • Angie Ambers
    • English
    Forensic Genetic Approaches for Identification of Human Skeletal Remains: Challenges, Best Practices, and Emerging Technologies provides best practices on processing bone samples for DNA testing. The book outlines forensic genetics tools that are available for the identification of skeletal remains in contemporary casework and historical/archaeolo... investigations. Although the book focuses primarily on the use of DNA for direct identification or kinship analyses, it also highlights complementary disciplines often used in concert with genetic data to make positive identifications, such as forensic anthropology, forensic odontology, and forensic art/sculpting.Uniden... human remains are often associated with tragic events, such as fires, terrorist attacks, natural disasters, war conflicts, genocide, airline crashes, homicide, and human rights violations under oppressive totalitarian regimes. In these situations, extensive damage to soft tissues often precludes the use of such biological samples in the identification process. In contrast, bone material is the most resilient, viable sample type for DNA testing. DNA recovered from bone often is degraded and in low quantities due to the effects of human decomposition, environmental exposure, and the passage of time. The complexities of bone microstructure and its rigid nature make skeletal remains one of the most challenging sample types for DNA testing.

  • Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences

    • 3rd Edition
    • Max M. Houck
    • English
    Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Four Volume Set, Third Edition presents content that is logically built around the following sections and topics, via a taxonomic approach, as opposed to the previous old-style alphabetical mode, thus resulting in far easier navigation for the user. Sections first cover Biological issues, including Anthropology, DNA, Entomology, Genetics, Pathology, Serology, Fingerprints, Biometrics, and more. Next, a Chemical section covers Drugs, Explosives, Fire debris, Materials analysis, Polymers, General chemistry, Microscopy, Instrumental methods, Inks, Development methods (visualization of latent evidence), and more. Thirdly, a section on Physical covers Toolmarks, Firearms, Impression evidence, Documents and handwriting, fracture comparisons, etc. Additional sections cover Digital, including discussion on devices, storage, locations, servers, networks, consumer end-products, and black boxes (vehicles, planes, etc.). A final section covers Professional, with sections on philosophy, ethics, associations, accreditation, certification, licensing, legal issues and admissibility. All chapters in this update have been revised with the latest information in the field.

  • Craniofacial Anatomy and Forensic Identification

    • 1st Edition
    • Gloria Nusse
    • English
    Our bodies record what happens to us physically throughout our lives. This is illustrated by the simple appearance of scars from injuries sustained years, and even decades ago. Evidence such as scars also tells us how we used our joints or may have injured them as children and adults. Our bodies conform to the environment in which we live, both outside and inside. By examining and observing these key clues, a forensic investigator can reveal the unique character that tells the story of a person’s life and death. Craniofacial Anatomy and Forensic Identification is an atlas that covers all aspects of facial reconstruction and anatomy of the head and neck, such as facial expression and the anatomic basis for facial development, along with the effects of muscle movement. Written by a world-renowned forensic artist with decades of experience as a scientific illustrator as well as a portraitist, anthropologist, and lecturer in anatomy and biology, the author is as much a scientist as an artist.

  • Forensic Handwriting Identification

    Fundamental Concepts and Principles
    • 2nd Edition
    • Ron N. Morris
    • English
    Forensic Handwriting Identification: Fundamental Concepts and Principles teaches the law enforcement and legal communities the major principles involved in handwriting and hand-printing analysis as applied to many types of investigations, including fraud, homicide, suicide, drug trafficking/clandest... labs, sexual offenses, threats and extortion, blackmail, arson, bombings, and theft. Lawyers and investigators will learn how to interpret an examiner’s report, the significance of various handwriting opinions and the influencing factors which must be considered.

  • Forensic Anthropology

    Current Methods and Practice
    • 2nd Edition
    • Angi M. Christensen + 2 more
    • English
    Forensic anthropology has seen a recent expansion in depth and scope as well as increased attention from the media and the legal system. This constantly evolving science requires a comprehensive introductory text that approaches forensic anthropology as a modern discipline, with attention to theory as well as recent advances in research, technology, and challenges in the field. Forensic Anthropology: Current Methods and Practice, 2nd edition approaches forensic anthropology using current practices and case studies drawn from the varied experiences, backgrounds, and practices of working forensic anthropologists. This text guides the reader through all aspects of human remains recovery and forensic anthropological analysis. It presents principles at a level that is appropriate for those new to the field, while at the same time incorporating evolutionary, biomechanical, and other theoretical foundations for the features and phenomena encountered in forensic anthropological casework. Attention is focused on the most recent and scientifically valid applications commonly employed by working forensic anthropologists. Readers will learn about innovative techniques in the discipline, and aspiring practitioners will be prepared by understanding the necessary background needed to work in the field today. Instructors and students will find Forensic Anthropology: Current Methods and Practice, 2nd edition comprehensive, practical, and relevant to the modern discipline of forensic anthropology.

  • 3D Data Acquisition for Bioarchaeology, Forensic Anthropology, and Archaeology

    • 1st Edition
    • Noriko Seguchi + 1 more
    • English
    3D Data Acquisition for Bioarchaeology, Forensic Anthropology, and Archaeology serves as a handbook for the collection and processing of 3-D scanned data and as a tool for scholars interested in pursuing research projects with 3-D models. The book's chapters enhance the reader’s understanding of the technology by covering virtual model processing protocols, alignment methods, actual data acquisition techniques, basic technological protocols, and considerations of variation in research design associated with biological anthropology and archaeology.

  • Age Estimation

    A Multidisciplinary Approach
    • 1st Edition
    • Joe Adserias-Garriga
    • English
    Age Estimation: A Multidisciplinary Approach is the only reference in the field covering all techniques and methods involving age estimation from different perspectives in just one volume. The book provides comprehensive coverage of all aspects of age estimation: aging the living and the dead, human rights, and skeletal, dental, histological and biochemical techniques and methods available. Each chapter is written by internationally known expert contributors. Age Estimation: A Multidisciplinary Approach is a one of a kind resource for those involved in estimating the age of the living and the dead.

  • Quantitative Anthropology

    A Workbook
    • 1st Edition
    • Leslie Lea Williams + 1 more
    • English
    Quantitative Anthropology: A Workbook contributes an anthropological perspective to quantitative methods. The book's authors address characteristics of quantitative data, entering and manipulating data in SPSS, graphical displays, distributions and measures of central tendency and dispersion, and including hypothesis testing with both parametric and nonparametric statistical tests. Increasingly complex exercises build on cumulative learning from chapter to chapter and stress the application of methods beyond coursework. The focus of the manual is on univariate statistical analysis, and the book is written to be accessible to higher level undergraduate students and graduate students in all fields of anthropology.

  • Quality Management in Forensic Science

    • 1st Edition
    • Sean Doyle
    • English
    Forensic science has been under scrutiny for some time, since the release of the NAS report in 2009. The report cited the need for standardized practices and the accreditation of crime labs. No longer can the forensic community take the position that cross-examination in a courtroom will expose weaknesses in methodology and execution. Quality Management in Forensic Science covers a wide spectrum of forensic disciplines, relevant ISO and non-ISO standards, accreditation and quality management systems necessary in any forensic science laboratory. Written by a globally well-respected forensic scientist with decades of experience in the forensic science laboratory and on the stand, as an expert witness who is also a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. This book will be a must-have resource for all forensic science stakeholders, particularly law enforcement agents and lawyers less familiar with the impact of quality management on the reliability of scientific evidence.

  • Investigations in Sex Estimation

    An Analysis of Methods Used for Assessment
    • 1st Edition
    • Donna L. Harrison
    • English
    Investigations in Sex Estimation: A Comparison of Morphological and Metrical Methods is a collective comparison of the many morphological and metric methods currently used on adult and juvenile human remains. This single comprehensive resource for sex estimation in skeletal material includes discussion on the evolution of sexual dimorphism in modern humans, how sexual dimorphism manifests itself in those bones, the growth development in juveniles and how sexual dimorphism can be measured in their bones. Data is presented which contradicts previously held postulates and some different uses of sex estimation methods are suggested, such as using the grading system to assess evolutionary change in skeletons or grouping juveniles into smaller groups by age to better estimate sex. New insights are offered for future research from the presentation of case studies on gender and a comparison of the sex differences between two African-American collections which suggests a correlation between occupation and evolutionary change. To achieve the objective, data on 294 adults from four diverse collections of known sex are obtained using a total of 67 morphological and metric methods. An additional 23 morphological and metric methods used on juveniles, aged 0 to 18, from two of the collections. The methods are specific to either the cranium, mandible, pelvis, humerus or femur. The compilation of assessment of sex provides definitive answers on which type of method, morphological or metric, is more accurate, which morphological and metric methods are the most accurate, and which bones are more reliable to estimate sex especially in the absence of a pelvis. Investigations in Sex Estimation is intended to be used in the field and the laboratory for the identification of sex in human remains and aims to provide a wealth of data for future research in sexual dimorphic studies.

  • Forensic Toxicology

    • 1st Edition
    • Max M. Houck
    • English
    Forensic Toxicology, the latest release in the Advanced Forensic Science Series that grew out of recommendations from the 2009 NAS Report, Strengthening Forensic Science: A Path Forward will serve as a graduate level text for those studying and teaching forensic toxicology. It is also an excellent reference for the forensic practitioner’s library or for use in their casework. Coverage includes a wide variety of methods used, along with pharmacology and drugs and professional issues they may encounter. Edited by a world-renowned, leading forensic expert, this updated edition is a long overdue solution for the forensic science community.

  • Essentials of Medicolegal Death Investigation

    • 1st Edition
    • Matthew M. Lunn
    • English
    Essentials of Medicolegal Death Investigation uses a unique approach by combining medical issues, injury patterns, and investigative procedures to provide the reader with the basic fundamentals for a death investigation. The text introduces the reader to death investigation, common causes of death, and very specific types of death, including blunt-force injuries, gunshot wounds, and toxicology deaths. Each section includes case studies with written and visual descriptions. Written by a well-known and experienced medicolegal death investigator, the book fills a void in medicolegal literature for both students and professionals alike.

  • Introduction to Security

    • 5th Edition
    • Robert J. Fischer + 1 more
    • English

  • Report Writing for Security Personnel

    • 1st Edition
    • Christopher A. Hertig + 1 more
    • English

  • Frontiers of Criminology

    Summary of the Proceedings of the British Congress on Crime, 5–9 September 1966, University College, London
    • 1st Edition
    • Hugh J. Klare + 1 more
    • English
    Frontiers of Criminology is a summary of the Proceedings of the British Congress on Crime held at the University College, London, on September 5-9, 1966. This book deals with the subjects presented during the proceedings and provides discussions on crime and delinquency, with attention to three keynote lectures. The first keynote lecture deals with theories and assumptions about crime. This discussion includes analytical theories, typologies or study of common traits of groups, social theories, white-collar crimes, and even applications of the games theory. The second keynote lecture focuses on research and research methods and the types of problems encountered. This keynote addresses the causes of juvenile delinquency, the state of forensic science, the police and the judicial system, sentencing, and the treatment of offenders. Dr. Michael Rutter's research on parents and children's delinquency is noted. The third keynote lecture evaluates individualization and treatment, and how society is now revising its use of institutional measures to restrict offenders and protect society. Institutional treatment includes therapeutic community undertakings and group counseling. This book also considers prevention of crime and treatment of offenders where it examines the relationship between the police and the public, the community and its ""rejected"" members, and the problems of individualization of treatment. This text is suitable for police administrators, criminologists, counselors, psychologists, lawyers, and sociologists.

  • Fire Prevention Handbook

    • 1st Edition
    • Derek James
    • English
    Fire Prevention Handbook is a handbook on fire prevention and covers topics ranging from the so-called Fire Triangle to fire extinguishers, fixed systems, fire alarms, and workforce training. Arson, highly flammable liquids and LPG, and fire insurance are also discussed. This handbook has 13 chapters and begins with an introduction to the Fire Triangle, an elegantly simple way of illustrating the three prerequisites for a blaze—heat, fuel, and oxygen—in the context of fire prevention and fire extinguishment. Attention then turns to the causes of fire, including electrical installations and apparatus, malicious or intentional ignition, and the burning of rubbish. The following chapters focus on the basic steps of fire prevention; the legal requirements that apply to fire prevention; fixed systems; and fire alarms. The training and motivation of in-house fire teams, the hazards of highly flammable liquids and LPG, fire insurance, and how to prevent arson are also considered. This text is intended for managers or supervisors of small-to-medium size industrial plants.

  • The Administration of Criminal Justice in England and Wales

    Pergamon Modern Legal Outlines
    • 1st Edition
    • C. F. Shoolbred
    • W. A. J. Farndale
    • English
    The Administration of Criminal Justice in England and Wales outlines in simple language what takes place in trial courts in England and Wales. This book focuses on the administration of justice in England and Wales, which is divided into three categories— magistrates' courts, Quarter Sessions, and Assizes. The fundamental difference between these categories is that trials in magistrates' courts take place before a bench of magistrates, a stipendiary or metropolitan magistrate, while Quarter Sessions or Assizes are trials by jury. The topics discussed include the magistrates' courts; transition from magistrates' courts to Quarter Sessions and Assize courts; jurors; trial by jury–Quarter Sessions; and after-trial duties–appeals to court of criminal appeal. A table of the courts engaged in administering criminal law is provided after the introduction of this text. This publication is a good reference for students aiming to become practicing barristers, solicitors, members of the Assize courts staff, clerks of the peace, or justices' clerks.

  • A Modern View of The Criminal Law

    Pergamon Modern Legal Outlines
    • 1st Edition
    • S. W. Stewart
    • W. A. J. Farndale
    • English
    A Modern View of the Criminal Law explains the nature of criminal law and classifies the leading crimes in English law. This book describes the application of the criminal law both in private life and as it may affect the public or public authority. Organized into four parts encompassing 23 chapters, this book begins with an overview of the fundamental principles and purposes of the criminal law. This text then examines the deterrent theory, which is regarded by some legal thinkers to be the most important function of criminal justice. Other chapters consider the common breakdown of crime into indictable and summary offenses, which broadly makes a distinction between minor and serious violations of the law. This book discusses as well the classification of the law of crime as a whole. The final chapter deals with the reforms in various areas of criminal law. This book is a valuable resource for lawyers.

  • Protection Officer Training Manual

    • 5th Edition
    • Sam Stuart
    • English
    Protection Officer Training Manual, Fifth Edition is a guidebook that provides a comprehensive coverage of security practice. The book is comprised of 27 chapters that are organized into 10 units. The coverage of the text includes various security procedures, such as patrolling, traffic management, and crowd control. Security threats are also covered, including explosives, fire, and hazardous substances. The book also covers emergency or high-risk situation, such as V.I.P. protection, crisis intervention, and first aid administration. The text will be most useful to security trainee and instructors. Individuals involved in administrative and management position will also benefit from the book.

  • Changing Concepts of Crime and Its Treatment

    • 1st Edition
    • Hugh J. Klare
    • English
    Changing Concepts of Crime and Its Treatment is a collection of essays dealing with the modern treatment of crime and how to improve it. This collection attempts to define crime according to several experts such as Dr. Morris and Mr. de Berker. T he book examines the dimensions of the crime problem and how society perceives and tolerates it. The text describes the different types of crimes such as property crime, violent crime, sexual crime, and even motoring offenses. Another paper examines the particulars of race and crime and cites genetics, legal and social views of race, and the measurement of both reported and unreported crimes. A summary of the statistics of studies made on the different races and crime is also given. The book then presents developments made in forensic psychiatry and a model of institution for treating adolescent delinquency. One paper discusses the sociology of change in penal institutions, whereby the offender needs some process of individualization to be able to help himself. The book then gives tribute to John Howard, an eminent penal reformer. This book can prove valuable for police administrators, criminologists, counselors, psychologists, lawyers, and social workers.

  • A Guide to Recent Criminal Legislation

    Pergamon Modern Legal Outlines
    • 1st Edition
    • C. F. Shoolbred
    • W. A. J. Farndale
    • English

  • Behavioral Evidence Analysis

    International Forensic Practice and Protocols
    • 1st Edition
    • Brent E. Turvey + 1 more
    • English
    The criminal profiling community can easily be split into two separate groups: those that have written criminalprofiles and those that have not. It is an important distinction, because report writing is one of the mostimportant requirements of good scientific practice. The process of writing up findings helps to reveal flaws inan examiner’s logic so that they can be amended or revisited; the final report memorializes findings and theirunderlying basis at a fixed point in time; and as a document a forensic report provides the best mechanism fortransparency and peer review. The problem is that many criminal profilers have not written criminal profiles,and still more prefer that this remain the case, often to conceal their lack of methodology. The contributors to this volume have travelled the world for more than a decade to lecture on the subjects ofcrime scene analysis and criminal profiling. The result has been a steady stream of requests from educationalinstituti... and government agencies alike to teach the application of criminal profiling theory. Everyonehas read the books, everyone has attended the lecture; but few have experience with hands on practice andapplication. In other words, there is a growing number of serious professionals who want to know how to puttheory into practice and then learn what it means to put their findings into written form. Behavioral Evidence Analysis: International Forensic Practice and Protocols has been written as a companiontext to Turvey’s Criminal Profiling, now in its fourth edition. It is meant to provide the legion of instructors thatare teaching criminal profiling as a subject with real world examples of case reports. It is also meant to serveas a desk reference for professionals that are writing crime scene analysis and criminal profiling reports, toenable sampling of structure, terminology, and references.

  • Firearm and Toolmark Examination and Identification

    • 1st Edition
    • Max M. Houck
    • English
    The Advanced Forensic Science Series grew out of the recommendations from the 2009 NAS Report: "Strengthening Forensic Science: A Path Forward." This volume, Firearm and Toolmark Examination and Identification, will serve as a graduate-level text for those studying and teaching firearm and toolmark examination and identification. It will also prove an excellent reference for forensic practitioner’s libraries or use in their casework. Coverage includes a wide variety of tools and toolmarks, analysis of gunshots, ammunition, gunshot wounds and professional issues they may encounter.

  • Encyclopedia of Forensic and Legal Medicine

    • 2nd Edition
    • Jason Payne-James + 1 more
    • English
    Encyclopedia of Forensic and Legal Medicine, Volumes 1-4, Second Edition is a pioneering four volume encyclopedia compiled by an international team of forensic specialists who explore the relationship between law, medicine, and science in the study of forensics. This important work includes over three hundred state-of-the-art chapters, with articles covering crime-solving techniques such as autopsies, ballistics, fingerprinting, hair and fiber analysis, and the sophisticated procedures associated with terrorism investigations, forensic chemistry, DNA, and immunoassays. Available online, and in four printed volumes, the encyclopedia is an essential reference for any practitioner in a forensic, medical, healthcare, legal, judicial, or investigative field looking for easily accessible and authoritative overviews on a wide range of topics. Chapters have been arranged in alphabetical order, and are written in a clear-and-concise manner, with definitions provided in the case of obscure terms and information supplemented with pictures, tables, and diagrams. Each topic includes cross-referencing to related articles and case studies where further explanation is required, along with references to external sources for further reading.

  • Fundamentals of Forensic Science

    • 3rd Edition
    • Max M. Houck + 1 more
    • English
    Fundamentals of Forensic Science, Third Edition, provides current case studies that reflect the ways professional forensic scientists work, not how forensic academicians teach. The book includes the binding principles of forensic science, including the relationships between people, places, and things as demonstrated by transferred evidence, the context of those people, places, and things, and the meaningfulness of the physical evidence discovered, along with its value in the justice system. Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, the book approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective, giving readers a new understanding and appreciation for crime scenes as recent pieces of history, each with evidence that tells a story.

  • Misleading DNA Evidence

    Reasons for Miscarriages of Justice
    • 1st Edition
    • Peter Gill
    • English
    Misleading DNA Evidence: A Guide for Scientists, Judges, and Lawyers presents the reasons miscarriages of justice can occur when dealing with DNA, what the role of the forensic scientist is throughout the process, and how judges and lawyers can educate themselves about all of the possibilities to consider when dealing with cases that involve DNA evidence. DNA has become the gold standard by which a person can be placed at the scene of a crime, and the past decade has seen great advances in this powerful crime solving tool. But the statistics that analysts can attach to DNA evidence often vary, and in some cases the statistical weight assigned to that match, can vary enormously. The numbers provided to juries often overstate the evidence, and can result in a wrongful conviction. In addition to statistics, the way the evidence is collected, stored and analyzed can also result in a wrongful conviction due to contamination. This book reviews high-profile and somewhat contentious cases to illustrate these points, including the death of Meredith Kercher. It examines crucial topics such as characterization of errors and determination of error rates, reporting DNA profiles and the source and sub-source levels, and the essentials of statement writing. It is a concise, readable resource that will help not only scientists, but legal professionals with limited scientific backgrounds, to understand the intricacies of DNA use in the justice system.

  • Ethics in Forensic Science

    • 1st Edition
    • J.C. Upshaw Downs + 1 more
    • English
    This work will draw upon the expertise of the editors as authors and various contributors in order to present several different perspectives with the goal of approaching and understanding when ethical lines are crossed. In order to achieve this goal, comparisons of various canons of ethics from related fields such as medicine, law, the military, science and politics will be examined and applied. Case studies will be presented throughout to illustrate ethical dilemmas and challenge the reader with the goal of greater understanding.

  • Forensic Dental Evidence

    An Investigator's Handbook
    • 2nd Edition
    • C. Michael Bowers
    • English
    Forensic Dental Evidence: An Investigators Handbook highlights the discussion regarding unjust convictions caused by inaccurate bitemark opinions. The book focuses on cases that use forensic techniques, emphasizing modern methods and protocols. Through this book, the latest information available is offered to the forensic community. This book demonstrates expertise in forensic dentistry by presenting chapters on human identification in domestic and international situations; investigations on missing person and violent crimes against persons; mass-disaster planning and disaster response; and new threats from terrorist attacks on urban centers. Furthermore, it discusses topics regarding bitemark evidence, such as forensic photography, analysis and legal issues. The book also presents two chapters on new scientific topics: The Next Level in Victim Identification: Materials Properties as an Aid in Victim Identification; and DNA for First Responders: Recognizing, Collecting, and Analyzing Biological Evidence Related to Dentistry (chapters 3 and 8, respectively). This book is suited to anyone seeking knowledge on forensic dentistry; it will be of great value to investigators, lawyers, medical examiners, nurses, and dentists with an interest in forensic dental cases.

  • Crime Scene Photography

    • 2nd Edition
    • Edward M. Robinson
    • English
    Crime Scene Photography, Second Edition, offers an introduction to the basic concepts of forensic picture-taking. The forensic photographer, or more specifically the crime scene photographer, must know how to create an acceptable image that is capable of withstanding challenges in court. The photographic theory and principles have to be well grounded in the physics of optics, the how-to recommendations have to work, and the end result must be admissible in court. Based on the author's years of experience in the field at both the Arlington County and Baltimore County Police Departments, this book blends the practical functions of crime scene processing with theories of photography to guide the student in acquiring the skills, knowledge, and ability to render reliable evidence. This text has been carefully constructed for ease of use and effectiveness in training and was class-tested by the author at George Washington University. Beginning August 2008, this book will be required reading by the IAI Crime Scene Certification Board for all levels of certification (through August 2011).

  • Fundamentals of Forensic Science

    • 2nd Edition
    • Max M. Houck + 1 more
    • English
    Fundamentals of Forensic Science, Second Edition, provides an introduction to the basic principles of forensic science. The book begins at a crime scene and ends in the courtroom.The book is divided into six parts. Part 1 provides an overview of criminal justice and forensic science, covering the basics of crime scene investigation and the nature of evidence. Part 2 discusses analytical tools, including microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, atomic spectroscopy, and separation methods. Parts 3 to 5 discuss the various types of forensic evidence collected, categorized by the types of science employed in their analysis: physical science, chemical science, and biological science. These include pathology; anthropology and odontology; entomology; serology and bloodstain pattern analysis; DNA analysis; forensic hair examinations; forensic toxicology; fiber and paint analysis; friction ridge examination; and firearms and tool marks. Part 6 discusses the legal aspects of forensic science. The book is written for students with a background in basic science, and it is can be used in a one-semester or two-semester format.

  • Fundamentals of Forensic DNA Typing

    • 1st Edition
    • John M. Butler
    • English
    Fundamentals of Forensic DNA Typing is written with a broad viewpoint. It examines the methods of current forensic DNA typing, focusing on short tandem repeats (STRs). It encompasses current forensic DNA analysis methods, as well as biology, technology and genetic interpretation. This book reviews the methods of forensic DNA testing used in the first two decades since early 1980’s, and it offers perspectives on future trends in this field, including new genetic markers and new technologies. Furthermore, it explains the process of DNA testing from collection of samples through DNA extraction, DNA quantitation, DNA amplification, and statistical interpretation. The book also discusses DNA databases, which play an important role in law enforcement investigations. In addition, there is a discussion about ethical concerns in retaining DNA profiles and the issues involved when people use a database to search for close relatives. Students of forensic DNA analysis, forensic scientists, and members of the law enforcement and legal professions who want to know more about STR typing will find this book invaluable.

  • Aspects of Explosives Detection

    • 1st Edition
    • Maurice Marshall + 1 more
    • English
    Detection and quantification of trace chemicals is a major thrust of analytical chemistry. In recent years much effort has been spent developing detection systems for priority pollutants. Less mature are the detections of substances of interest to law enforcement and security personnel:in particular explosives. This volume will discuss the detection of these, not only setting out the theoretical fundamentals, but also emphasizing the remarkable developments in the last decade. Terrorist events—airplanes blown out of the sky (PanAm 103 over Lockerbie) and attacks on U.S. and European cities (Trade Center in New York and the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, railways in London and Madrid)--emphasize the danger of concealed explosives. However, since most explosives release little vapor, it was not possible to detect them by technology used on most organic substances. After PanAm 103 was downed over Scotland, the U.S. Congress requested automatic explosive detection equipment be placed in airports. This volume outlines the history of explosive detection research, the developments along the way, present day technologies, and what we think the future holds.

  • Juvenile Osteology

    A Laboratory and Field Manual
    • 1st Edition
    • Louise Scheuer + 2 more
    • English
    The need for a laboratory and field manual to assist with the evaluation of juvenile skeletal material is long overdue. This resource is essential for the practising osteoarchaeologist and forensic anthropologist who requires a quick, reliable and easy-to-use reference to aid in the identification, siding and aging of juvenile osseous material. While excellent reference books on juvenile osteology are currently available, no pre-existing source adequately fills this particular niche in the market. This field manual is designed with practicality as its primary directive. Descriptions of each bone contain 1) morphological characteristics useful for identification, 2) other elements with which the bone may be confused, 2) tips for siding, 3) illustrations of varying developmental phases, 4) data useful for ageing, and 5) a summary of developmental timings. Concise, bullet-style descriptions assist with quick retrieval of information.Unique to this manual is the presentation of data collected from a variety of populations, utilizing a range of observational methods, as an alternative to providing one overall aging summary that is derived from a compilation of many individual sources. This manual provides a host of data on a variety of populations to enable the user to select the reference most applicable to their needs. The final chapter combines information from each bone to provide a summary of developmental changes occurring at different life stages to act as an immediate 'ready reckoner' for the knowledgeable practitioner. It also provides forms useful for documenting juvenile material and diagrams to help with the recognition of commingled juvenile remains. The manual is a must for anyone responsible for the evaluation of juvenile osseous material through dry bone assessment, radiographs, sonograms, and or CT scans.

  • Forensic Victimology

    Examining Violent Crime Victims in Investigative and Legal Contexts
    • 1st Edition
    • Brent E. Turvey + 1 more
    • English
    This new textbook provides students with the basic principles and practice standards of forensic victimology--the scientific study of victims for the purposes of addressing investigative and forensic issues. It provides case-based coverage with original insights into the role that victimology plays in the justice system, moving beyond the traditional theoretical approaches already available. The purpose of this textbook is to distinguish the investigative and forensic aspects of victim study as a necessary adjunct to the field of victimology. It identifies forensic victimologists in the investigative and forensic communities and provides them with methods and standards of practice needed to be of service. This book is intended to educate students on the means and rationale for performing victimological assessments with a scientific mindset. Forensic Victimology is designed specifically for teaching the practical aspects of this topic, with “hands on” real-life case examples.

  • The Bioarchaeology of Metabolic Bone Disease

    • 1st Edition
    • Megan B. Brickley + 1 more
    • English
    The Bioarchaeology of Metabolic Bone Disease provides a comprehensive and invaluable source of information on this important group of diseases. It is an essential guide for those engaged in either basic recording or in-depth research on human remains from archaeological sites. The range of potential tools for investigating metabolic diseases of bone are far greater than for many other conditions, and building on clinical investigations, this book will consider gross, surface features visible using microscopic examination, histological and radiological features of bone, that can be used to help investigate metabolic bone diseases.

  • Criminal Profiling

    An Introduction to Behavioral Evidence Analysis
    • 3rd Edition
    • Brent E. Turvey
    • English
    Now in its third edition, Criminal Profiling is established as an industry standard text. It moves evidence-based criminal profiling into a full embrace of the scientific method with respect to examining and interpreting behavioral evidence. If focuses on criminal profiling as an investigative and forensic process, helping to solve crime through an honest understanding of the nature and behavior of the most violent criminals. Throughout the text, the author outlines specific principles and practice standards for Behavioral Evidence Analysis, focusing on the application of theory and method to real cases. Criminal Profiling, Third Edition, is an ideal companion for students and professionals alike, including investigators, forensic scientists, criminologists, mental health professionals, and attorneys. With contributing authors representing law enforcement, academic, mental health, and forensic science communities, it offers a balanced perspective not found in other books on this subject. Readers will use it as a comprehensive reference text, a handbook for evaluating physical evidence, a tool to bring new perspectives to cold cases, and as an aid in preparing for criminal trials.

  • The Analysis of Burned Human Remains

    • 1st Edition
    • Christopher W. Schmidt + 1 more
    • English
    This unique reference provides a primary source for osteologists and the medical/legal community for the understanding of burned bone remains in forensic or archaeological contexts. It describes in detail the changes in human bone and soft tissues as a body burns at both the chemical and gross levels and provides an overview of the current procedures in burned bone study. Case studies in forensic and archaeological settings aid those interested in the analysis of burned human bodies, from death scene investigators, to biological anthropologists looking at the recent or ancient dead.

  • Forensic Science

    • 2nd Edition
    • Volume 6
    • English
    Forensic Science, Second Edition presents the applications of separation methods, manly chromatography, in forensic practice. The first part, devoted to forensic toxicology, contains reviews on forensic relevant groups of compounds, like: Opiate agonists, cocaine, amphetamines, hallucinogens, cannabinoids, sedatives and hypnotics, antidepressive and antipsychotic drugs, analgesics, antidiabetics, muscle relaxants, and mushroom toxins.In these parts, the preliminary immunochemical tests were also included, together with separation methods. Screening procedures used in forensic toxicology were presented in separate chapters on forensic screening with GC, GC-MS, HPLC, LC-MS, CE, and LC-ICP-MS. In the part on actual and emerging problems of forensic toxicology, following chapters were included: Analytical markers of alcohol abuse, toxicological aspects of herbal remedies, drugs and driving, analysis in alternative matrices, doping analysis, pharmacogenomics in forensic toxicology, and quality assurance. The second part presents application of separation methods in forensic chemistry, and comprises chapters on: Explosives, chemical warfare agents, arson analysis, and writing media. Third part on forensic identification contains chapter on forensic genetics.All chapters are written up-to-date and present specific information up to 2006. The authors of each chapter are known not only from their scientific activity, but are also reputed experts, proven in everyday forensic casework.

  • Forensic Science Under Siege

    The Challenges of Forensic Laboratories and the Medico-Legal Investigation System
    • 1st Edition
    • Kelly Pyrek
    • English
    Forensic science laboratories' reputations have increasingly come under fire. Incidents of tainted evidence, false reports, allegations of negligence, scientifically flawed testimony, or - worse yet - perjury in in-court testimony, have all served to cast a shadow over the forensic sciences. Instances of each are just a few of the quality-related charges made in the last few years. Forensic Science Under Siege is the first book to integrate and explain these problematic trends in forensic science. The issues are timely, and are approached from an investigatory, yet scholarly and research-driven, perspective. Leading experts are consulted and interviewed, including directors of highly visible forensic laboratories, as well as medical examiners and coroners who are commandeering the discussions related to these issues. Interviewees include Henry Lee, Richard Saferstein, Cyril Wecht, and many others. The ultimate consequences of all these pressures, as well as the future of forensic science, has yet to be determined. This book examines these challenges, while also exploring possible solutions (such as the formation of a forensic science consortium to address specific legislative issues). It is a must-read for all forensic scientists.

  • Crime Reconstruction

    • 1st Edition
    • W. Jerry Chisum + 1 more
    • English
    Crime Reconstruction is a guide to the interpretation of physical evidence. It was developed to aid forensic reconstructionists with the formulation of hypotheses and conclusions that stay within the known limits of forensic evidence. The book begins with chapters on the history and ethics of crime reconstruction, and then shifts to the more applied subjects of general reconstruction methods and practice standards. It concludes with chapters on courtroom conduct and evidence admissibility, to prepare forensic reconstructionists for what awaits them when they take the witness stand. This book is a watershed collaborative effort by internationally known, qualified, and respected forensic science practitioners with generations of case experience. Forensic pioneers such as John D. DeHaan, John I. Thornton, and W. Jerry Chisum contribute chapters on arson reconstruction, trace evidence interpretation, advanced bloodstain interpretation, and reconstructionist ethics. Other chapters cover the subjects of shooting incident reconstruction, interpreting digital evidence, staged crime scenes, and examiner bias. Rarely have so many forensic giants collaborated, and never before have the natural limits of physical evidence been made so clear. This book is ideal for forensic examiners, forensic scientists, crime lab personnel, and special victim and criminal investigators. Others who will benefit from this book are law enforcement officials, forensic medical personnel, and criminal lawyers.

  • Fundamentals of Forensic Science

    • 1st Edition
    • Max M. Houck + 1 more
    • English
    Fundamentals of Forensic Science offers a complete look at the core topics of forensic science. It represents the most realistic view of the field by including areas that, while central to criminal investigation, fall outside the typical definition of criminalistics. These areas include pathology, entomology, anthropology, and other areas of scientific study unique to forensic textbooks. Organized by the timeline of a real case, the text begins with an introduction and history of forensic science. It then covers the methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addressing the biological, chemical and physical elements relevant to the field, and concluding with an examination of how forensic science intersects with law. Feature boxes throughout the text contain online resource listings, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading or interest. This book is recommended for students in forensic science and professionals in the various forensic disciplines – fire, chemistry, crime scene, trace evidence, law enforcement personnel, lawyers, and defense attorneys.

  • Forensic Investigation of Stolen-Recovered and Other Crime-Related Vehicles

    • 1st Edition
    • Eric Stauffer + 1 more
    • English
    Forensic Investigation of Stolen-Recovered and Other Crime-Related Vehicles provides unique and detailed insights into the investigations of one of the most common crime scenes in the world. In addition to a thorough treatment of auto theft, the book covers vehicles involved in other forms of crime—dealing extensively with the various procedures and dynamics of evidence as it might be left in any crime scene. An impressive collection of expert contributors covers a wide variety of subjects, including chapters on vehicle identification, examination of burned vehicles, vehicles recovered from under water, vehicles involved in terrorism, vehicle tracking, alarms, anti-theft systems, steering columns, and ignition locks. The book also covers such topics as victim and witness interviews, public and private auto theft investigations, detection of trace evidence and chemical traces, vehicle search techniques, analysis of automotive fluids, vehicle registration, document examination, and vehicle crime mapping. It is the ultimate reference guide for any auto theft investigator, crime scene technician, criminalist, police investigator, criminologist, or insurance adjuster.

  • Effective Interviewing and Interrogation Techniques

    • 2nd Edition
    • Nathan J. Gordon + 1 more
    • English
    Effective Interviewing and Interrogation Techniques, Second Edition, is completely revised and updated so as to cover all the information a student needs to know to obtain answers from a witness, a victim, or a suspect and how to interpret these answers with the utmost accuracy. Building on the previous edition’s ground-breaking search for truth in criminal and non-criminal investigations, this book contains five new chapters which include coverage of false confessions, interviewing the mentally challenged, and the ethics of interrogation in a post 9/11 world. This new edition includes highly illustrated chapters with topics ranging from the psycho-physiological basis of the forensic assessment to preparation for the interview/interrogat... question formulation; projective analysis of unwitting verbal clues; interviewing children and the mentally challenged; and pre-employment interviewing. Also included are several model worksheets and documents, case studies, and complete instructions for using the authors’ Integrated Interrogation Technique, a 10-point, highly successful approach to obtaining confessions that can stand up in court. The book concludes with an insightful look at the future of truth verification. This book will be of benefit to attorneys, coroners, detectives, educators, forensic psychophysiologists (lie detection), human resource professionals, intelligence professionals, and investigators as well as journalists/authors, jurists, medical professionals, psychological professionals, researchers, and students.

  • Serial Crime

    Theoretical and Practical Issues in Behavioral Profiling
    • 1st Edition
    • Wayne Petherick
    • English
    Serial Crime provides a theoretical and practical foundation for understanding the motivation and dynamics in a range of serial offenses . It successfully connects concepts and creates links to criminal behavior across crimes —murder, sexual assault, and arson— something no other book available does. The connection of serial behavior to profiling, the most useful tool in discovering behavior patterns, is new to the body of literature available and serves to examine the ideal manner in which profiling can be used in conjunction with psychology to positively affect criminal investigations. The book includes case examples that offer real-world uses of behavioral profiling in investigations, and highlight a variety of issues in understanding and investigating serial crime. The book's primary audience would include criminal profilers, fire investigators, universities offering forensic science/criminal justice programs, and forensic, police, criminal, and behavioral psychologists. The secondary audience would include attorneys and judges involved in criminal litigation, and forensic scientists and consultants (generalists).

  • The Human Bone Manual

    • 1st Edition
    • Tim D. White + 1 more
    • English
    Building on the success of their previous book, White and Folkens' The Human Bone Manual is intended for use outside the laboratory and classroom, by professional forensic scientists, anthropologists and researchers. The compact volume includes all the key information needed for identification purposes, including hundreds of photographs designed to show a maximum amount of anatomical information.

  • Computer-Graphic Facial Reconstruction

    • 1st Edition
    • John G. Clement + 1 more
    • English
    This unique books looks at a cost-efficient, fast and accurate means of facial reconstruction--from segmented, decomposed, or skeletal remains--using computer-graphic and computational means.Computer-Graph... Facial Reconstruction is designed as a valuable resource for those scientists designing new research projects and protocols, as well as a practical handbook of methods and techniques for medico-legal practitioners who actually identify the faceless victims of crime. It looks at a variety of approaches: artificial intelligence using neural networks, case-based reasoning, Baysian belief systems, along with a variety of imaging methods: radiological, CT, MRI and the use of imaging devices.The methods described in this book complement, or may even replace, the less-reliable, more traditional means of securing identification by presumptive means, i.e., recognition of clothing, personal effects and clay reconstruction.

  • Encyclopedia of Forensic and Legal Medicine

    • 1st Edition
    • Roger W. Byard + 4 more
    • English
    The Encyclopedia of Forensic & Legal Medicine comprehensively covers forensic and legal medicine (including related specialities and scientific, technical and legal issues) and is available online and in three printed volumes, offering any practitioner in a forensic, medical, healthcare, legal, judicial, or investigative field easily accessible and authoritative overviews on a wide range of topics. The work is edited and written by experienced professionals with medical, legal or dual training – and who are internationally renowned for their experience or expertise within their areas of specialty. The Editorial Board reflects the multidisciplinary, multi-jurisdictional and global emphasis of forensic and legal medicine. The individual articles are written in a clear and concise manner and are supplemented by diagrams, tables and full-color images. Key further reading and extensive cross-referencing make this work an invaluable reference source for undergraduates and graduates looking for an introduction to key fields and experts reading outside their specialization.

  • Microbial Forensics

    • 1st Edition
    • Bruce Budowle + 2 more
    • English
    Microbial Forensics describes the new and growing field of Microbial Forensics- the science that will help bring to justice criminals and terrorists who use biological material to cause harm. This book describes the foundation of the field of microbial forensics and will serve as a basic primer to initiate those scientists and officials that have an interest in the topic. It covers a variety of areas from forensic science, to microbiology, to epidemiology, to bioinformatics, and to legal issues.