Forensic Scientists are not policemen.

We are scientists.
We deal with these matters objectively.
We do not act on our suspicion
- Cycil Wecht

Locards Exchange Principle

The exchange of materials between two objects that occurs
when those two objects come into contact with one another

Edmond Locard strongly believed that every criminal

can be connected to a crime by dust particles carried
from the scene.

EVERY Criminal either leaves behind a piece of

himself (or herself), carries a piece of the crime with
him (or her), or both

In other words, there is always evidence to be found.

All Evidence is generally classified as either

testimonial or physical evidence

Testimonial Evidence

What is said in court by a competent

witness under oath
Also known as direct evidence or prima facie

evidence
The key word here is competent
Many factors can affect the accuracy of
testimony

Factors affecting memory of witnesses

Positive factors

Suspect closely
resembles the witness
General characteristics

Negative factors
Environmental conditions
Dark, foggy, etc.

Age, height & race

Sex & hair color

Stress & Fear

change a memory

mind

Victims of serious crimes

Leading questioning
Power of suggestion can actually

Stress often sharpens the

More specific characteristics

Stress & Fear

For some, it clouds the mind

These relive the experience

Intoxication
Drugs and drinking are bad for you

Type of witness
Children and the elderly are usually

less reliable; as are others

Physical Evidence
Tangible items that tend to prove some
material fact
Also known as Real Evidence

Most evidence does not prove a fact and is

therefore referred to as INDIRECT EVIDENCE

Some evidence does
possession of

Blood alcohol content

Physical Evidence

Circumstantial evidence- evidence based on suggestion

that implies a fact or event without actually proving it.
Probability & Statistics come into play. How likely is this evidence

related to the perpetrator

The more Circumstantial evidence you have, the greater the weight it
carries.

Individual evidence- Material that can be related to a

single source
individualization involves comparison

Class Evidence- Material that can be related to a group of

items that share similar characteristics
Probative value- The evidences ability to prove something

Scenario
A stabbing occurs resulting in death.
Method of entry & exit is through a broken east

facing window
A suspect is found near the scene. He is in
possession of a pocket knife with red residue
on the blade. He also has red fluid stains on
his person and clothing.
There are glass shards in the treads of the
suspects shoes
For your Reflective Journal, answer the following
What circumstantial evidence can you immediately identify?
What other evidence might you look for?
How could you increase the probative value of each piece of evidence?