National Conference on Science, Technology and the Law

Why you are not a Geek any More

THE CSI EFFECT

Whats Wrong ?Application of technology and equipmentTime frame in which techniques are accomplished & single case analysisNo documentationAutomatic computer matchesUnrealistic investigative techniquesFast and infallible

What is the effect?Unrealistic expectations by jurorsJurors expecting scientific evidence that is irrelevant or non-existentRequires prosecution to put on negative evidence to prove it is not necessary. Ex. FingerprintsComplicated jury voir direJury confusion and speculation

Whats positive

Increasing interest in university forensic science studiesIncreased interest in funding forensic science projectsNational interest in science and technology rapidly developingEnhancement in science and technology development

INFAMOUS CRIMES & CRIMINALS

SACCO and VANZETTI TRIAL - 1921

THE EAGLET & BRUNO HAUPTMAN - 1935

Julius & Ethel Rosenberg Trial 1951

STATE OF KANSAS VS. REGINALD AND JONATHAN CARR

Nine Days in December 2000Devastating crime brings Technology to the forefront.900+ exhibitsDNA Mito & STR & RFLF TechnologyFootprint ExaminationFirearms ExaminationBullet ComparisonHair and Fiber Analysis

Look what the DNA Fairy Left on Reggies Shorts

STATE OF KANSAS VS.ARTURO J. GARCIA

FIVE DAYS INJULY 2003

Js Chillin & Grillin Three missing personsA basement shooting galleryTwo extra freezersA gun and knife clubTequila by the gallonA place in the countryGasoline and matches and Drugs, Sex and Rock & Roll

Forensic Anthropology

Forensic AnthropologyComparison of vault shape of Individual #1, #2 and #3 Individual #1-CaucIndividual #2-C/MIndividual #3 C/M

Skeletal Identification

STATE OF KANSAS vs.DENNIS RADER

Thirty-One Years 1974 2005He stalked Wichita

THREE SCENE LINKED BY DNA: OTERO, FOX & WEGERLE

Surveillance Video Clip showing Black Jeep Cherokee used for dropFloppy Disk examined to reveal first name, church name and city