Forensic evidence : exploring different forensic science frameworks to streamline the Maltese crime scene investigation methodologies and standardisation

Abstract

This dissertation aims to establish the latest technological framework used in various Forensic Science processes that throughout the evaluation of the data gathered, solution and methodologies, which could be proposed within the Malta Police Forensic Science Laboratory would be identified. Consequently, this study's aspiration also focuses on whether Forensic Science professionals are obliged to make use of certain methodologies and maintain quality standards, as well as the goals aimed for and the process to be used up by making use of such procedures while also compared to other Forensic Science Laboratories worldwide. Thus, this dissertation was conducted in a Qualitative analysis of a focus group data, made up of four (4) participants. In conjunction with the qualitative research method, an Ethnographic approach was used, which is based on human interaction by simply gathering data through face to face interaction. Through the analysis of this research, four (4) main themes were identified, which are; 1. Learning through training with regards to ongoing developments in their respective section. 2. The upkeep of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 3. Coordinating and Collaborating with other first responders on the crime scene. 4. Internal Cooperation with the Forensic Science Laboratory gained through acquired experience.