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decent site for pros/cons

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Pros and Cons of Forensic DNA - Forensic DNA Use

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I found another pros and cons website

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Forensic science is an important part of many crime investigations. In forensic laboratories, any type of organism is identifiable through DNA analysis. For the criminal justice system, DNA identification aids with apprehending criminals, exonerating wrongly accused people and identifying victims. When mishandled, however, forensic science can lead to questions of quality control and privacy infringement.

Pro: Exonerate Wrongly Accused People

One positive consequence of DNA analysis has been the reopening of old cases. Some people convicted of crimes including murder and rape before the availability of DNA analysis have requested that evidence from their cases be re-evaluated using this technology. When DNA is used for forensic identification, some test results have exonerated convicted criminals, resulting in their release from prison.

DNA analysis may also prevent wrongful convictions in the first place. Before the 1960s, DNA evidence depended largely on ABO blood typing and polymorphic typing. Such tests could narrow the field of possible suspects but could not identify a specific suspect. Today, DNA samples obtained from a crime scene can exonerate wrongly accused people even before prosecution.

Pro: PCR Analysis

Polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, is a forensic process that exactly replicates DNA extracted from a biological sample. This process amplifies one sample with a million copies, which allows DNA analysis from something as small as a skin cell. In turn, even degraded samples of DNA can be analysed, and the minuscule sample required for testing may allow for independent laboratory testing. Multiple test results can then be compared to ensure investigators seek the right crime suspect.

Pro: Identify Victims of Disaster

In addition to identifying suspects, DNA analysis can also be used to identify victims of disaster. For example, the DNA Shoah Project contains a database of people who lost family members during the Holocaust. The database may reunite families separated during that time and also identify victims who are still anonymously buried in Europe. After the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, victims were identified by DNA in bone and tissue fragments. Such forensic techniques help to solve mysteries, reunite family members and ease the suffering of victims' loved ones.

Con: Inconsistent Laboratory Methodologies

Forensic science has been criticised for lacking standardised practices of analysis. This is largely owing to rapid expansion of DNA practices and different methods employed by private laboratories. Single-locus RFLP, multilocus RFLP and PCR are individual methodologies laboratories use when analysing DNA for law enforcement agencies. Each method uses its own match criteria and reporting methods. Differences of opinion exist within courts as to the reliability and applicability of these methods, and some scientists question their accuracy.

Con: Quality Control Issues

Some have questioned the validity of forensic science because of visible quality control issues. Many defence attorneys have used this in their clients' favour. Such mishandling of forensic evidence leads some law enforcement agencies to dismiss its importance at a crime scene. Mandatory certification programs also do not exist for forensics practitioners or laboratories. Moreover, forensic scientists sometimes ignore performance standards and fail to use accepted terminology in reporting on the results of forensic investigations.

Con: Infringement of Privacy Rights

Investigators often rely on DNA strands found at crime scenes. Those strands are compared to a police database that holds DNA samples obtained from previously convicted criminals. Some scientists fear that a person's DNA profile from the database may wrongly be identified as a match or partial match to a strand extracted from a crime scene. Such an instance can occur even with innocent people who may have been at that scene earlier. Two people may also hold similar DNA profiles, sometimes causing an innocent person to be charged inadvertently.

DNA samples can also provide scientists and investigators with private information such as family relationships and disease susceptibility. Some see access to this information as an infringement on civil liberties. In addition, databases that are believed to be technically secure may be susceptible to compromise. This may lead to tampering with DNA samples or the public release of private information.

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What Are the Pros & Cons of Forensic Science?

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Forensic science is an important part of many crime investigations. In forensic laboratories, any type of organism is identifiable through DNA analysis. For the criminal justice system, DNA identification aids with apprehending criminals, exonerating wrongly accused people and identifying victims.

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Good website on both sides of dna profiling.

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How many rights does an individual have in any given society? That's the primary question that must be answered in the subject of DNA profiling. Although this practice can help to find a higher level of justice, it may also invade on the rights of every private citizen. Law enforcement agencies today are asking people to voluntarily give them DNA so that they can be excluded from criminal investigations. If someone refuses a volunteer donation, there is almost always an automatic assumption of guilt. What else could the future be for this scientific identification method?

When it comes DNA profiling, there are certainly some pros and cons that must be weighed when considering the value of this practice. Here is a look at both sides of the equation.

The Pros of DNA Profiling

1. DNA profiling is not invasive.
Taking a sample of DNA can be as simple as swabbing the inside of a cheek with a cotton swab. Compare this to the older methods of obtaining DNA that came from blood samples, and there is less pain and discomfort involved with the practice.

2. It can reduce the amount of wrongful convictions that occur.
In any given year, about a dozen people are exonerated from a guilty conviction for a serious crime because their DNA did not match the DNA of the suspect committed the crime. According to FBI research, since DNA profiling became standard in 1989, the primary suspect in sexual assault cases has been excluded in 1 out of every 4 investigations.

3. It eliminates the possibility of manipulation.
DNA profiling can also be used to determine who the parent of a child are. In the past, paternity cases were often settled based on a propensity of evidence about who the parent was supposed to be. Thanks to this technology, parents can be confirmed so that proper court awards can be handed out.

The Cons of DNA Profiling

1. There is a lack of privacy.
You have to let someone into your intimate circle for them to be able to take a proper DNA sample. This means that there is no way to maintain your overall privacy during this procedure. Because there is such a lack of privacy, some believe that the practice could be a violation of their own civil liberties.

2. The data could be hacked.
We've already seen what can happen when millions of user profiles are hacked from retail store and payment information is stolen. Now imagine what could happen if a database that held store DNA profiles was hacked and used for criminal gain. It would take identity theft to a whole new level.

3. It can easily be manipulated.
Because the average person sees DNA as a 100% irrefutable science for identification, that data can be manipulated by someone to make others that something has happened when it really has not. No practice is 100% perfect. Whenever humans are involved, there is a possibility for error.

DNA profiling has helped to free a lot of innocent people over the years and that's a great thing. What we need to ask ourselves is this: how far do we want DNA profiling to go? By weighing the pros and cons of it, we can find a compromise that will work for all of us.

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Pros and Cons of DNA Profiling - Vision Launch

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How many rights does an individual have in any given society? That's the primary question that must be answered in the subject of DNA profiling. Although this practice can help to find a higher level of justice, it may also invade on the rights of every private citizen.

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What is DNA profiling website

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Here is a great so on how you DNA Profile

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DNA profiling is the process where a specific DNA pattern, called a profile, is obtained from a person or sample of bodily tissue

Even though we are all unique, most of our DNA is actually identical to other people's DNA. However, specific regions vary highly between people. These regions are called polymorphic. Differences in these variable regions between people are known as polymorphisms. Each of us inherits a unique combination of polymorphisms from our parents. DNA polymorphisms can be analysed to give a DNA profile.

Human DNA profiles can be used to identify the origin of a DNA sample at a crime scene or test for parentage.

DNA profiling is used to:

identify the probable origin of a body fluid sample associated with a crime or crime scene

reveal family relationships

identify disaster victims, for example, ESR scientists travelled to Thailand to help identify victims of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

What are short tandem repeats?

One of the current techniquesfor DNA profiling usespolymorphisms called short tandemrepeats.

Short tandem repeats (or STRs) are regions of non-coding DNA that contain repeats of the same nucleotide sequence.

For example, GATAGATAGATAGATAGATAGATA is an STR where the nucleotide sequence GATA is repeated six times.

STRs are found at different places or genetic loci in a person's DNA.

What is a DNA profile?

One way to produce a DNA profile, is for scientists to examineSTRs at 10 or more genetic loci. These genetic loci are usually on different chromosomes.

A DNA profile can tell the scientist if the DNA is from a man or woman, and if the sample being tested belongs to a particular person.

How do you create a DNA profile using STR?
1. Get a sample of DNA
DNA is found in most cells of the body, including white blood cells, semen, hair roots and body tissue. Traces of DNA can also be detected in body fluids, such as saliva and perspiration because they also contain epithelial cells. Forensic scientists and Police officers collect samples of DNA from crime scenes. DNA can also be collected directly from a person using a mouth swab (which collects inner cheek cells). Find out more in the article Crime scene evidence.
2. Extract the DNA
DNA is contained within the nucleus of cells. Chemicals are added to break open the cells, extract the DNA and isolate it from other cell components.
3. Copy the DNA
Often only small amounts of DNA are available for forensic analysis so the STRs at each genetic locus are copied many times using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to get enough DNA to make a profile. Find out more in the article Polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Specific primers are used during PCR that attach a fluorescent tag to the copied STRs.
4. Determine the size of the STRs
The size of the STRs at each genetic locus is determined using a genetic analyser. The genetic analyser separates the copied DNA by gel electrophoresis and can detect the fluorescent dye on each STR. This is the same piece of equipment used in the lab for DNA sequencing.
5. Is there a match?
The number of times a nucleotide sequence is repeated in each STR can be calculated from the size of the STRs. A forensic scientist can use this information to determine if a body fluid sample comes from a particular person.

If two DNA profiles from different samples are the same, the chance that the samples came from different people is low. This provides strong evidence that the samples have a common source.

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DNA profiling is the process where a specific DNA pattern, called a profile, is obtained from a person or sample of bodily tissue Even though we are all unique, most of our DNA is actually identical to other people's DNA. However, specific regions vary highly between people. These regions are called polymorphic.

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Where samples of DNA may be found to identify a person: http://www.forensicsciencesimplified.org/dna/how.html

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Pros and Cons of Forensic Science...

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Forensic science is a cornerstone of today's television programs. The public has become more familiar with what these scientists do and how they complete their jobs. There is little doubt as to the positive aspects forensic science services provide. However, the application of forensic science causes controversy regarding the handling of the information and privacy concerns.

The use of DNA evidence has resulted in overturning the sentences of 250 jury-convicted individuals in the United States, according the to Justice Project. Forensic science techniques and technology has rapidly advanced. These 250 individuals had been wrongly convicted of crimes they did not commit. The use of forensic science, specifically DNA testing, has helped earn many of these individuals freedom.

Forensic science is used to help identify victims of crimes and victims of disasters. Using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process can make millions of copies of DNA from just a few skin cells. These DNA techniques can help tie criminals to a crime and victim. DNA is also used in disaster situations where bodies may not be able to be identified by other means. This allows the remains to go back to the rightful families and gives those families closure.

Forensic science laboratories may not be run in the same manner. Cases involving unqualified practitioners, lax standards and the absence of quality control standards have plagued different laboratories within the United States. According to Senior Circuit Judge Harry T. Edwards, in an audit of the Detroit police lab 10 percent of 200 random cases were determined to have sub-par quality control and shocking levels of incompetence. These inconsistent practices can lead to entire cases being thrown out, allowing the guilty to go free or to create erroneous data, which may convict the innocent.

The CODIS system holds DNA evidence from all convicted criminals and DNA evidence collected from crime scenes. DNA collected from crime scenes may contain DNA from innocent individuals who happened to be in the same location. Sensitive DNA information such as genetic diseases may be seen by police, forensic scientists and other individuals allowed to access the system, which is a breach of privacy. The CODIS system could possibly be compromised, allowing this sensitive information to be leaked.

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Forensic science is a cornerstone of today's television programs. The public has become more familiar with what these scientists do and how they complete their jobs. There is little doubt as to the positive aspects forensic science services provide. However, the application of forensic science causes controversy regarding the handling of the information and privacy concerns.

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Here's a really good website on how forensics is done...

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How It's Done

Sources of DNA Evidence

The biological material used to determine a DNA profile include blood, semen, saliva, urine, feces, hair, teeth, bone, tissue and cells.

Samples that May be Used

Investigators collect items that could have been touched or worn by persons involved in a crime. The following items may contain DNA material:

Masks

Hats

Gloves

Clothing

Tools

Weapons

Sexual assault evidence kits

Underclothes

Bedding

Dirty laundry

Fingernail scrapings

Cups/bottles

Cigarettes

Toothpicks

Toothbrush

Facial tissue

Hairbrush

Eyeglasses

Condoms

Tape

Ligatures (rope, wire, cords)

Stamps or envelopes

The best evidence occurs when a person's DNA is found where it is not supposed to be. For example, consider a breaking-and-entering that occurred in a residential area. Near the point of forced entry, a knit cap was found which the homeowners confirm was not theirs. Several head hairs were recovered from the inside, one of which had a root with tissue attached, which made it possible to obtain a DNA profile. The DNA profile was used to identify the perpetrator.

As technology advances, forensic scientists are able to analyze smaller and smaller biological samples to develop a DNA profile. For example, if a person touched an object or weapon, skin cells may have been left behind. This low-level DNA is sometimes referred to as "touch DNA". It can even be collected from a victim's skin or bruises where they were handled roughly. Low-level DNA samples may be helpful when examining evidence where it would be difficult to retrieve fingerprints-such as textured surfaces on gun handles or automobile dashboards. However, not all jurisdictions have the capability to process this evidence.

To compare the victim's or suspect's DNA profile to the recovered crime-scene DNA, the laboratory will need to have their known biological samples available for a side-by-side comparison. These known samples are called reference samples. In some jurisdictions, a DNA sample is routinely taken from an arrestee during the process of booking and fingerprinting. However, this is an evolving area of law and states vary in their laws governing the collection of DNA from arrestees. Sometimes a court order is required to retrieve a reference from a person of interest. Reference samples are always collected from victims unless they choose not to cooperate with the investigation; in that case, a court order might be required.

In addition to unknown and reference samples, elimination samples are often collected from consensual sex partners and others, such as first responders, crime scene personnel and analysts working the case so they can be excluded from the investigation.

It is important that biological evidence be properly collected and preserved as it can easily degrade when exposed to heat or humidity. Storing evidence in cool environments is preferred; however, research has shown that room temperature conditions are suitable for storing dried stains as long as the humidity is controlled. Liquid samples should be transported in refrigerated or insulated containers.

Who Conducts DNA Analysis

DNA analysts working in laboratories that participate in the FBI's National DNA Index System (NDIS) and/or are accredited by a recognized organization must meet specific educational and training requirements. At a minimum, a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a forensic science-related area is required. In addition, the analyst should have successfully completed nine hours of coursework at the undergraduate or graduate level covering the following subject areas: biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, as well as coursework or training in statistics and/or population genetics, as it applies to forensic DNA analysis.

To ensure analysts' skills are kept up to date, analysts who are actively employed at a crime laboratory are also required to meet continuing education requirements. These requirements are stipulated by the FBI's Quality Assurance Standards (QAS).

The specialists who conduct DNA analysis in the laboratory are referred to by several different titles, including: Crime Laboratory Analyst, Forensic Examiner, Forensic Scientist and Forensic Laboratory Analyst.

How and Where DNA Testing is Performed

DNA testing must be conducted in a laboratory with dedicated facilities and equipment that meet the FBI's stringent QAS requirements. Most publicly funded DNA crime laboratories in the United States are part of state, regional or municipal law enforcement agencies and accept submissions from multiple agencies.

Prior to performing DNA analysis at the laboratory, initial testing is often conducted at the crime scene to determine the type of biological material in question. Screening for the presence of biological materials may also be conducted in the laboratory to determine if a specific biological fluid may be present. Most biological screening tests are presumptive in nature and do not specifically identify a bodily fluid.

To determine who deposited biological material at a crime scene, unknown samples are collected and then compared to known samples taken directly from a suspect or victim.

Most DNA samples submitted to a laboratory undergo the following process:

1. Extraction is the process of releasing the DNA from the cell.

2. Quantitation is the process of determining how much DNA you have.

3. Amplification is the process of producing multiple copies of the DNA in order to characterize it.

4. Separation is the process of separating amplified DNA product to permit subsequent identification.

5. Analysis & Interpretation is the process of quantitatively and qualitatively comparing DNA evidence samples to known DNA profiles.

6. Quality Assurance is the process of reviewing analyst reports for technical accuracy.

How the Results are Interpreted

The DNA analysis process provides the analyst with a chart called an electropherogram, which displays the genetic material present at each loci tested (each of the gray bars on the graph below, except for the last one, correspond to a locus; the final gray area is used to indicate the gender of the individual). In a complete profile, each person will exhibit either one or two peaks (alleles) at each locus. The following electropherogram is an example of a profile from a single individual (i.e., a "single-source" profile):

Loci that display only one allele indicate that the individual inherited the same marker from both parents at this locus. Where two alleles are displayed, the individual inherited different markers.

This image shows that the first four loci from the unknown evidence sample collected at the scene match the sample collected from the suspect. (This process would be repeated for all 13 loci.)

Note: The height of each peak must exceed a predetermined quantity threshold to be used in the analysis.

Is the suspect included?

In practice, evidence often contains a mixture of DNA from more than one person. These mixtures can be very challenging to analyze and interpret. In the following example, each marker from the suspect sample is included in the mixture profile collected from the evidence.

Partial Profiles:

If any locus is missing an allele, this is considered a partial profile. Partial profiles can happen for a variety of reasons, such as when a sample is degraded. If a sample has peaks at every locus, but any of them fall below a predetermined threshold, this would also be considered a partial profile.

Comparing Profiles Against a Central Database

To enable profiles to be searched against a large, national database, the FBI created the National DNA Index System (NDIS) in 1998. This national database is part of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) that enables law enforcement agencies throughout the nation to share and compare DNA profiles to help investigate cases. As of 2012, there are more than 10 million DNA profiles in the system and CODIS has produced leads that have assisted in almost 170,000 investigations.

Once a laboratory enters a case into CODIS, a weekly search is conducted of the DNA profiles in NDIS, and resulting matches are automatically returned to the laboratory that originally submitted the DNA profile. CODIS has three levels of operation:

Local DNA Index System(LDIS)

State DNA Index System (SDIS)

National DNA Index System (NDIS)

The NDIS databases contain DNA profiles from:

Convicted Offenders - DNA profiles of individuals convicted of crimes

Arrestees - profiles of arrested persons (if state law permits the collection of arrestee samples)

Forensic unknowns - DNA profiles of unknown individuals developed from crime scene evidence, such as semen stains or blood

Missing Persons - contains DNA reference profiles from missing persons

Biological Relatives of Missing Persons - contains DNA profiles voluntarily contributed from relatives of missing persons

Unidentified Humans (Remains) - contains DNA profiles developed from unidentified human remains

Each database has its own rules regarding the number of STR markers that must be present for the profile to be uploaded. As of January 1, 2017, the National DNA Index System (NDIS) requires that 20 autosomal STR markers be tested, and the profile must contain information for at least 10 loci. The requirements are less stringent for state and local databases. States require the profile to have information for seven or more loci, and the local database requires at least four loci to be present to be uploaded.
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The biological material used to determine a DNA profile include blood, semen, saliva, urine, feces, hair, teeth, bone, tissue and cells. Investigators collect items that could have been touched or worn by persons involved in a crime.

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I found a website for what forensic science is.

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The word forensic comes from the Latin word forensis: public, to the forum or public discussion; argumentative, rhetorical, belonging to debate or discussion. A relevant, modern definition of forensic is: relating to, used in, or suitable to a court of law (Merriam Webster Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com). Any science used for the purposes of the law is a forensic science.

The forensic sciences are used around the world to resolve civil disputes, to justly enforce criminal laws and government regulations, and to protect public health. Forensic scientists may be involved anytime an objective, scientific analysis is needed to find the truth and to seek justice in a legal proceeding. Early on, forensic science became identified with law enforcement and the prosecution of criminal cases - an image enhanced by books, television, and movies. This is misleading because forensic science is objective, unbiased, and applies equally to either side of any criminal, civil, or other legal matter.

Forensic science is a rewarding career where the love of science can be applied to the good of society, public health, and public safety.
Go back to Choosing a Career Overview

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The word forensic comes from the Latin word forensis: public, to the forum or public discussion; argumentative, rhetorical, belonging to debate or discussion. A relevant, modern definition of forensic is: relating to, used in, or suitable to a court of law (Merriam Webster Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com).

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Here's a website to help better understand DNA profiling

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DNA profiling is the process where a specific DNA pattern, called a profile, is obtained from a person or sample of bodily tissue

Even though we are all unique, most of our DNA is actually identical to other people's DNA. However, specific regions vary highly between people. These regions are called polymorphic. Differences in these variable regions between people are known as polymorphisms. Each of us inherits a unique combination of polymorphisms from our parents. DNA polymorphisms can be analysed to give a DNA profile.

Human DNA profiles can be used to identify the origin of a DNA sample at a crime scene or test for parentage.

DNA profiling is used to:

identify the probable origin of a body fluid sample associated with a crime or crime scene

reveal family relationships

identify disaster victims, for example, ESR scientists travelled to Thailand to help identify victims of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

What are short tandem repeats?

One of the current techniquesfor DNA profiling usespolymorphisms called short tandemrepeats.

Short tandem repeats (or STRs) are regions of non-coding DNA that contain repeats of the same nucleotide sequence.

For example, GATAGATAGATAGATAGATAGATA is an STR where the nucleotide sequence GATA is repeated six times.

STRs are found at different places or genetic loci in a person's DNA.

What is a DNA profile?

One way to produce a DNA profile, is for scientists to examineSTRs at 10 or more genetic loci. These genetic loci are usually on different chromosomes.

A DNA profile can tell the scientist if the DNA is from a man or woman, and if the sample being tested belongs to a particular person.

How do you create a DNA profile using STR?
1. Get a sample of DNA
DNA is found in most cells of the body, including white blood cells, semen, hair roots and body tissue. Traces of DNA can also be detected in body fluids, such as saliva and perspiration because they also contain epithelial cells. Forensic scientists and Police officers collect samples of DNA from crime scenes. DNA can also be collected directly from a person using a mouth swab (which collects inner cheek cells). Find out more in the article Crime scene evidence.
2. Extract the DNA
DNA is contained within the nucleus of cells. Chemicals are added to break open the cells, extract the DNA and isolate it from other cell components.
3. Copy the DNA
Often only small amounts of DNA are available for forensic analysis so the STRs at each genetic locus are copied many times using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to get enough DNA to make a profile. Find out more in the article Polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Specific primers are used during PCR that attach a fluorescent tag to the copied STRs.
4. Determine the size of the STRs
The size of the STRs at each genetic locus is determined using a genetic analyser. The genetic analyser separates the copied DNA by gel electrophoresis and can detect the fluorescent dye on each STR. This is the same piece of equipment used in the lab for DNA sequencing.
5. Is there a match?
The number of times a nucleotide sequence is repeated in each STR can be calculated from the size of the STRs. A forensic scientist can use this information to determine if a body fluid sample comes from a particular person.

If two DNA profiles from different samples are the same, the chance that the samples came from different people is low. This provides strong evidence that the samples have a common source.

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DNA profiling is the process where a specific DNA pattern, called a profile, is obtained from a person or sample of bodily tissue Even though we are all unique, most of our DNA is actually identical to other people's DNA. However, specific regions vary highly between people. These regions are called polymorphic.

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Here is a good website for Pros and cons

https://sciencing.com/pros-cons-forensic-science-8066285.html

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Pros and cons of dna profiling

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ARGUMENTS FOR:

A DNA database covering the whole population and every visitor to the UK, as advocated by Lord Justice Sedley, would save massive amounts of police time and help clear up crimes faster.
ARGUMENTS AGAINST:
It would be the ultimate step on the road to a 'Big Brother' state: Britain would become 'a nation of suspects'.

Whatever the utility of DNA samples, there is something inherently disturbing about entering every baby on a database at birth.

A national DNA bank would be massively expensive and bureaucratic.

It would be damaging to the image of the UK - 'Welcome to Britain: now provide a mouth swab'.

DNA information could be abused by corrupt police and others illegally passing information to unauthorised people.

Those who do nothing wrong have nothing to fear and should be reassured.

The current system - the DNA of all those arrested for recordable offences, guilty or not, is retained - is selective and inefficient.

Current practice is unfair: ethnic minorities and young people are over-represented, creating resentment and anti-police feeling. Two-in-five black men have their DNA on record, as against fewer than one-in-ten whites.

The world has changed: international mobility means that potential terrorists can come and go, often on false papers.

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Pros and cons of a compulsory DNA database

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ARGUMENTS FOR: A DNA database covering the whole population and every visitor to the UK, as advocated by Lord Justice Sedley, would save massive amounts of police time and help clear up crimes faster. ARGUMENTS AGAINST: It would be the ultimate step on the road to a 'Big Brother' state: Britain would become 'a nation of suspects'.

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Here is a websites with the pros and cons

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Forensic science is a cornerstone of today's television programs. The public has become more familiar with what these scientists do and how they complete their jobs. There is little doubt as to the positive aspects forensic science services provide. However, the application of forensic science causes controversy regarding the handling of the information and privacy concerns.

The use of DNA evidence has resulted in overturning the sentences of 250 jury-convicted individuals in the United States, according the to Justice Project. Forensic science techniques and technology has rapidly advanced. These 250 individuals had been wrongly convicted of crimes they did not commit. The use of forensic science, specifically DNA testing, has helped earn many of these individuals freedom.

Forensic science is used to help identify victims of crimes and victims of disasters. Using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process can make millions of copies of DNA from just a few skin cells. These DNA techniques can help tie criminals to a crime and victim. DNA is also used in disaster situations where bodies may not be able to be identified by other means. This allows the remains to go back to the rightful families and gives those families closure.

Forensic science laboratories may not be run in the same manner. Cases involving unqualified practitioners, lax standards and the absence of quality control standards have plagued different laboratories within the United States. According to Senior Circuit Judge Harry T. Edwards, in an audit of the Detroit police lab 10 percent of 200 random cases were determined to have sub-par quality control and shocking levels of incompetence. These inconsistent practices can lead to entire cases being thrown out, allowing the guilty to go free or to create erroneous data, which may convict the innocent.

The CODIS system holds DNA evidence from all convicted criminals and DNA evidence collected from crime scenes. DNA collected from crime scenes may contain DNA from innocent individuals who happened to be in the same location. Sensitive DNA information such as genetic diseases may be seen by police, forensic scientists and other individuals allowed to access the system, which is a breach of privacy. The CODIS system could possibly be compromised, allowing this sensitive information to be leaked.

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Forensic science is a cornerstone of today's television programs. The public has become more familiar with what these scientists do and how they complete their jobs. There is little doubt as to the positive aspects forensic science services provide. However, the application of forensic science causes controversy regarding the handling of the information and privacy concerns.

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If you are looking for the pros and cons of forensic testing, this is a great website.
https://sciencing.com/pros-cons-forensic-science-8066285.html

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Forensic Science means applying scientific methods, and processes to solving crimes.

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Here's a good website for Forensic People.

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How to Become a Crime Scene Investigator | CSI Education

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The term forensic science involves forensic (or forensis, in Latin), which means a public discussion or debate. In a more modern context, however, forensic applies to courts or the judicial system. Combine that with science, and forensic science means applying scientific methods and processes to solving crimes.

From the 16 th century, when medical practitioners began using forensic science to writings in the late 18 th century that revealed the first evidence of modern pathology, to the formation of the first school of forensic science in 1909; the development of forensic science has been used to uncover mysteries, solve crimes, and convict or exonerate suspects of crime for hundreds of years.

The extraordinary scientific innovations and advancements in forensic science have allowed it to become a highly developed science that involves a number of disciplines and thousands of forensic scientists specializing in everything from DNA and botany to dentistry and toolmarks.

The Application of Forensic Science

The field of forensic science draws from a number of scientific branches, including physics, chemistry, and biology, with its focus being on the recognition, identification, and evaluation of physical evidence. It has become an essential part of the judicial system, as it utilizes a broad spectrum of sciences to achieve information relevant to criminal and legal evidence.

Forensic science may prove the existence of a crime, the perpetrator of a crime, or a connection to a crime through the:

Examination of physical evidence

Administration of tests

Interpretation of data

Clear and concise reporting

Truthful testimony of a forensic scientist

Forensic science has become an integral part of many criminal cases and convictions, with objective facts through scientific knowledge serving both defense and prosecution arguments. The testimony of forensic scientists has become a trusted component of many civil and criminal cases, as these professionals are concerned not with the outcome of the case; only with their objective testimony based purely on scientific facts.

Forensic scientists perform both physical and chemical analyses on physical evidence obtained by crime scene investigators and law enforcement officials at the crime scene. These scientific experts use microscopic examining techniques, complex instruments, mathematical principles, scientific principles, and reference literature to analyze evidence as to identify both class and individual characteristics.

Although the majority of forensic scientists perform their jobs within the confines of the forensic laboratory or morgue, their work may also take them outside of the laboratory and to the crime scene, where they observe the scene and collect evidence. Forensic scientists may work for local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and government, private laboratories, and hospitals. They may also serve as independent forensic science consultants.

The Organization of Forensic Science

Due to the highly complex field of forensic science, forensic scientists are most often skilled in a particular area of forensic science, such as latent prints, questioned documents, trace evidence, or firearms, just to name a few.

Forensic scientists may be divided into three, major groups:

Forensic Pathologists: These include medical examiners and other professionals who oversee autopsies and clinical forensic examinations

Forensic Scientists: These include forensic professionals working in law enforcement, government, or private forensic laboratories who are responsible for dealing with any number of specific tests and analyses, such as toxicology, ballistics, trace evidence, etc.

Associated Scientists: These include scientific professionals lending their knowledge to forensic science, such as forensic odontologists, forensic botanists, forensic anthropologists, etc. These scientists apply their knowledge to the forensic science field as to provide investigators with crucial information regarding everything from bite marks to insect infestation on the postmortem body.

Forensic science is therefore further organized into the following fields:

Trace Evidence Analysis

Forensic Toxicology

Forensic Psychology

Forensic Podiatry

Forensic Pathology

Forensic Optometry

Forensic Odontology

Forensic Linguistics

Forensic Geology

Forensic Entomology

Forensic Engineering

Forensic DNA Analysis

Forensic Botany

Forensic Archeology

Forensic Anthropology

Digital Forensics

Criminalistics

Forensic science often includes even more specialized fields, such as forensic accounting, forensic engineering, and forensic psychiatry, among others.

The Study of Forensic Science

Although forensic science may be a very complex study, particularly in the areas of DNA and trace evidence, for example, the study of forensic science is grounded in fundamental concepts and techniques that are gathered from the natural sciences. In particular, the study of forensic science involves a multi-disciplinary approach that covers everything from biological methods to analytical chemistry techniques.

The majority of forensic scientists study a specific physical science, such as chemistry or biology, while others pursue forensic science degrees that are rooted in either chemistry or biology.

A comprehensive degree from a college or university draws from the biological sciences, as well as from the fields of criminal justice and the law. Students learn to develop an appreciation of both the scientific and social environment of the criminal justice system, and many students go on to focus their degrees on specific areas of forensic science, such as DNA, trace evidence, toxicology, latent prints, or questioned documents, for example.

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What is Forensic Science | What is a Forensic Scientist

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The term forensic science involves forensic (or forensis, in Latin), which means a public discussion or debate. In a more modern context, however, forensic applies to courts or the judicial system. Combine that with science, and forensic science means applying scientific methods and processes to solving crimes.

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Here is a great website for an intro into forensics

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The word forensic comes from the Latin word forensis: public, to the forum or public discussion; argumentative, rhetorical, belonging to debate or discussion. A relevant, modern definition of forensic is: relating to, used in, or suitable to a court of law (Merriam Webster Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com). Any science used for the purposes of the law is a forensic science.

The forensic sciences are used around the world to resolve civil disputes, to justly enforce criminal laws and government regulations, and to protect public health. Forensic scientists may be involved anytime an objective, scientific analysis is needed to find the truth and to seek justice in a legal proceeding. Early on, forensic science became identified with law enforcement and the prosecution of criminal cases - an image enhanced by books, television, and movies. This is misleading because forensic science is objective, unbiased, and applies equally to either side of any criminal, civil, or other legal matter.

Forensic science is a rewarding career where the love of science can be applied to the good of society, public health, and public safety.
Go back to Choosing a Career Overview

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The word forensic comes from the Latin word forensis: public, to the forum or public discussion; argumentative, rhetorical, belonging to debate or discussion. A relevant, modern definition of forensic is: relating to, used in, or suitable to a court of law (Merriam Webster Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com).

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Here's a great website on how to become a forensic scientist...

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Step 2 is to earn a bachelor's degree. You must have at least bachelor's degrees to find employment in this occupation. Depending on the chosen discipline, students may focus their studies on the natural or biological sciences. For example, students interested in a career in toxicology may focus on microbiology, while those looking to begin a career in forensic ballistics may choose to focus on physics.

Some colleges and universities offer Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science programs. Employing classroom and laboratory instruction, these 4-year degree programs combine various sciences applicable to forensic science. Courses may include:

Microbiology

Genetics

Human anatomy

Organic chemistry

Toxicology

Physics

Evidence analysis

Forensic anthropology

Public speaking

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forensic scientist: how do i start a career in forensic science?

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Forensic Scientist: How Do I Start a Career in Forensic Science?

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Step 2 is to earn a bachelor's degree. You must have at least bachelor's degrees to find employment in this occupation. Depending on the chosen discipline, students may focus their studies on the natural or biological sciences.