A QUICK A-Z GUIDE TO THE FORENSIC SPECIALTIES
by
Michael W. Decaire HBSc (candidate)
Through the course of their career the Forensic
Psychologist, particularly those involved with criminal investigations,
will cross the paths of several other forensic investigators. A working
knowledge of each of these disciplines is essential to the professional
investigator. Below I have defined a number of the key specialists
involved in criminal investigations.
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Forensic Anthropologists - The forensic anthropologist examines the
victims bones to determine a number of key facts. Information such
as gender, age, looks, previous trauma, and disease can all be found.
The forensic anthropologist is often of key relevance to the identification
of remains. They use a number of means, including molecular DNA analysis.
-
Forensic Artist - the forensic artist provides an elaborate sketch of
the offender. This process is undertaken via the information from
an eyewitness. Many investigators now use computer programs to develop
offender renditions.
-
Ballistics Experts - ballistic experts focus on the functioning of firearms.
Via microscopic analysis they can match up bullets with a particular weapon.
They also provide key information about the projectiles path.
-
Forensic Chemists - the forensic chemist studies the molecular aspects
of the crime scene. They can match fibers, paint, and dyes to particular
objects. They will identify relevant chemicals and particles.
-
Dactyloscopy - this is the scientific analysis of fingerprints.
Fingerprint experts have been involved with law enforcement for almost
a hundred years. Recent advances in dactyloscopy have continued to
make fingerprint analysis of key importance (i.e., new methods pull fingerprints
off underwater surfaces, skin, etc.).
-
Forensic Dentists/Odontologists - these experts serve a identification
function. Via the analysis of a corpses teeth and previous dental
records they can make a positive identification. They also will analyze
bite patterns so that they can identify who was eating a particular meal
or even who bit somebody.
-
Forensic Entomologists - the entomologist studies insects. A number
of pieces of key information can be discovered from this analysis.
The rate of body decay via insects can directly correlate to time of death.
The presence of certain insects can identify previous dump sites, etc.
-
Forensic Geologists - the forensic geologist can determine where a person
or object has been by analyzing soil samples. Soil can be found on
a pair of shoes, tire treads, or a body. They can be matched up with
common soil types to predict quite specifically where the object/person
has been.
-
Forensic Linguists - the forensic linguist analyses either the spoken
or written word. They can identify whether a message was presented
by the same individual, what the individuals underlying intent is, the
individuals educational and cultural background, as well as the presence
of pathology.
-
Forensic Pathologist - the forensic pathologist analyzes the remains
of a body. They attempt to determine the cause and time of death
via autopsy.
-
Forensic Photographer - the crime scene photographer attempts to record
every component of the crime scene via photograph. They depict the
scene from multiple angles, using multi-functional cameras, and through
the consistent evaluation of size and distance.
-
Forensic Sculptors - like the forensic artist, the sculptor attempts
to create an image of either an offender or a victim. The sculptor's
goal is to create a three dimensional version of the image.
-
Forensic Serologist - the serologist studies blood and other bodily
fluids for identification purposes. The serologist is often involved
in DNA fingerprinting (the identification of an individual based on body
cells).
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