The impact and challenges of forensic evidence in crime scene investigation throughout the last century

Abstract

Forensic Science is an ever-growing phenomena, especially in the last century, which brings with it positive impacts which aid in Crime Scene Investigation. However, it is known that it is also accompanied by challenges which effect Crime Scene Investigation. The concept of carrying out such a research came to mind when the author was studying on fingerprints in order to carry out a separate study. This is when she noticed the great advancement which forensics has made throughout the years. By using data from literature provided online as well as data gathered by semi-structured interviews on participants who have been working with the MPFSL for a minimum of five years, the objectives of this research study were reached. Contrary to what has often been assumed, it was concluded that forensic evidence plays a big role when it comes to Crime Scene Investigation as well as when it comes to the Criminal Justice System. The findings of this study showed that forensic science is mainly divided into three parts: the gathering of evidence, the examining of evidence, and lastly the submission of the findings from the examination in court. While researching on these aspects, research was also conducted on the tools needed in order to carry out such steps and the challenges which may arise during the process like contamination the of evidence. Another finding concluded from this research study was that when it came to the general public, their perception on forensic is somewhat mixed. Although people on the street believe that forensic evidence may be crucial in certain cases such as sexual assaults and rapes, they also feel that forensic science can breach one’s privacy by retaining personal records such as DNA and fingerprints in criminal databases. The study also depicts that their understanding of forensic is what one calls the “CSI Effect” which simply means having an idea of what forensics is and its purpose, through the lenses of TV shows and movies.