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Klasén L, Fock N, Forchheimer R. The invisible evidence: Digital forensics as key to solving crimes in the digital age. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 362:112133. [PMID: 39089208 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Digital transformation rapidly changes how we live our lives in the post pandemic world. Unfortunately, digital technology is not limited to law abiding organisations and citizens. Criminal organisations and individuals are quick to identify new opportunities with new technologies, and digital transformation is dramatically changing the character of crimes, terror, and other threats. The fast emergence of new crimes is facilitated by possibilities brought by disruptive technologies such as AI, Internet of Things, drones, and cryptocurrencies that can be disastrous tools in the hands of criminals. Consequently, our society needs far better capacity to prevent and investigate criminal acts to protect organisations and citizens. This brings an urgent need to proactively reform digital forensics to significantly increase our capability to meet the strain on society brought by crimes evolving in the digital transformation era. The future of forensic science is already here, characterized by a mix of opportunities and challenges. It is essential to make it harder to effectively use digital technologies for criminal activities, while leveraging the possibilities of digital technologies by those affected, law enforcement agencies, business and organisations. As digital technologies continue to evolve, we need to stay up to date with the latest developments to effectively investigate and prosecute crimes in the digital age. There is an increased reliance on digital evidence, and the amount of heterogeneous digital evidence in criminal cases keep increasing. The forensic science techniques thus become more sophisticated and play an increasingly important role. However, the scientific area is extremely broad, and beyond the capability of most forensic science labs to keep up with the technology forefront development speed. Besides an urgent need to bring up the subject to the political arena, examples of how we can meet the challenges are discussed such as by extending our cooperation, encourage and facilitate cooperation for training and education to handle the extremely broad and rapid development, working out methods for explaining and visualising evidence for the treatment and legal values of digital evidence in prosecution, and cooperation between product developers and crime investigators for swift innovation of digital forensics tools and methodologies for quickly emerging threats. This paper will highlight specific examples where modern digital techniques are used to solve crimes in the physical world as well as crimes committed in the digital domain and discuss how "good AI" can be used to fight "evil AI" and finally touch on the sensitive balance between the increased power of the new digital forensic tools and private integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Klasén
- Computer Vision Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Niclas Fock
- Computer Vision Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Santa Anna IT Research Institute, c/o Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Forchheimer
- Information Coding, Department of Electrical Engineering, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Linköping, Sweden
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2
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Ribaux O, Lopes Fernandes K, Weyermann C. Signs of how the Sydney Declaration article is received in the forensic science literature. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 360:112066. [PMID: 38810589 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The Sydney Declaration is an initiative led by an informal group of forensic scientists with diverse backgrounds. It offers a vision of forensic science based on the trace, as a vestige of a past event related to security or a possible law violation. An article published in Forensic Science International (FSI) introduces to this view [1]. Our investigation delves into how the forensic science literature has received this article (the SD article), nearly two years after its publication. One of the main challenges of this exploratory study was to define the appropriate scope of forensic scientific literature, within which the SD article must be located. In general, the publishing domain is quickly evolving, with many competing players, while still being structured around standard academic disciplines. The forensic literature, meanwhile, is scattered and poorly connected. This reflects the fragmentation of practice and research in forensic science, and the difficulty of situating a scientific activity in such a way as to bring out its forensic substance. Nonetheless, the SD article fills a gap. By deciphering the critical concept of trace, it highlights how pivotal forensic science is in addressing societal challenges. Scholarly literature expresses clear quantitative interest in the SD article. It has received significant qualitative citations on multiple levels and dimensions, in a highly relevant manner and in accordance with its aim of providing a forensic foundation for various debates that have been conducted separately, notably over the last fifteen years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Ribaux
- École des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | | | - Céline Weyermann
- École des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland
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3
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Thompson T. The impact of climate change and sustainability initiatives on forensic practice. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100475. [PMID: 38764543 PMCID: PMC11099902 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2024.100475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
The climate change crisis affects all aspects of our lives, and this includes national and global scientific endeavours. The forensic sciences are no different but are yet to engage meaningfully with this agenda or to consider what it means for future practice. This paper explores and discusses a range of impacts on forensic and crime scene practice derived from climate change and proposes the potential implications. The paper concludes by laying out a way forward and a programme of activity to support the forensic sciences to manage the implications of climate change and related sustainability initiatives on the criminal and medico-legal investigative community.
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4
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Olckers A, Ben Khelil M. The Sydney Declaration - An unique opportunity for Africa. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 357:111969. [PMID: 38428217 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The Sydney Declaration (SD) has the inherent virtue of shifting the focus from the tools used in forensic science to the fundamental characteristics of appropriate forensic practice analysis of a situation and all related trace data for the purpose of resolving a case. Though several differences might be observed between countries regarding the technologies used, the fundamental principle of forensic logical reasoning are universally applicable to all contexts and environments and not only restricted to sophisticated, well-resourced, established forensic science laboratories based in countries that offer adequate resources, strong networks and legal frameworks. In Africa, several countries lack resources to train practitioners and to develop forensic science institutes, laboratories and other relevant institutions. The SD can serve as departure point to attain appropriate forensic science outcomes. Upholding its sound guidance can help forensic science practitioners remain faithful to their science, acknowledge their limits, give expert opinions based solely on facts and scientific analysis and interpretation, whilst also enhancing communication with their stakeholders. As forensic science develops in Africa, the SD presents a timely opportunity for us to proceed with a common understanding and a solid foundation through which our field can grow.
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5
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Weyermann C, Willis S, Margot P, Roux C. Response to the letter to the Editor commenting on "Towards more relevance in forensic science research and development" by Weyermann et al. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 355:111928. [PMID: 38277914 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Céline Weyermann
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Sheila Willis
- Leverhulme Research Center for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, UK
| | - Pierre Margot
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Claude Roux
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
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6
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Attinger D. Letter to the Editor commenting on "Towards more relevance in forensic science research and development'', by Weyermann et al. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 355:111927. [PMID: 38232576 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
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7
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Wickenheiser RA. Proactive crime scene response optimizes crime investigation. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 6:100325. [PMID: 37020724 PMCID: PMC10068110 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The Proactive Crime Scene Response is a technique utilizing targeted forensic analytical results to guide criminal investigations in real time. Analytical value of evidence maximized by forensic laboratories is directly related to the recognition, documentation, collection, and preservation of evidentiary items located at the crime scene. Improved education, coordination and communication between the crime scene investigators and forensic scientist experts creates a seamless analytical process flow, enabling greater focus on high value evidence with decreased response time and greater impact on investigational direction. Real time data from focused forensic analyses and use of databases provides primary investigative leads, with suspect identities, whereabouts at the time of crime commission, links to other crimes and other critical collaborative crime solving information. Case examples highlighting successful application of various aspects of this model will be provided, with recommendations for implementation including Rapid DNA and supporting business cases.
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8
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Jones AW. Highly cited forensic practitioners in the Nordic countries and their composite citation scores based on six different citation metrics. Med Leg J 2023:258172221145109. [PMID: 36752031 DOI: 10.1177/00258172221145109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Forensic science is a multidisciplinary field that involves the use of various scientific methods and techniques for the investigation of crimes. Forensic scientists are often required to testify in court as expert witnesses and explain the meaning of chemical, physical, and/or medical evidence to a judge and jury. This article took advantage of a citation database to identify the most highly cited forensic practitioners in four Nordic countries within the discipline of legal and forensic medicine. The starting point was 7 million scientists indexed in the SCOPUS database, each of whom had their name on at least five entries. Six different citation metrics were used to calculate a person's composite citation score. Those within the top 2% of their primary research discipline were considered highly cited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan W Jones
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology, University of Linköping, Sweden
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9
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McAndrew WP, Speaker PJ, Houck MM. Interpol review of forensic management, 2019-2022. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 6:100301. [PMID: 36655022 PMCID: PMC9840933 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews and summarizes the forensic management literature from late 2019 to late 2022, covering laboratory strategic, tactical and operational decision-making, benchmarking, quality assurance, and managerial impacts from technological developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P. McAndrew
- Department of Finance and Economics, Dahlkemper School of Business, Gannon University, USA,Corresponding author.
| | - Paul J. Speaker
- Department of Finance, John Chambers College of Business & Economics, West Virginia University, USA
| | - Max M. Houck
- Global Forensic and Justice Center, Florida International University, USA
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10
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Partnership between academics and practitioners - Addressing the challenges in forensic science. Sci Justice 2023; 63:74-82. [PMID: 36631184 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This research discusses the development of academic-practitioner partnerships in forensic science and examines the opinions and experience of those involved in the field. An anonymous online survey was completed by 56 participants who work in the field of forensic science. The questions related to their work experience, their experience of research and partnership, and their opinions on the benefits and barriers that exist. The results were analysed using a mixed methods approach, with quantitative analysis of the responses to closed questions using two-way chi-square statistical analysis, and qualitative analysis of the free text responses using reflexive thematic analysis. This work identifies the demand for partnership, the perceived benefits and barriers that exist, and establishes how the role of the participant (academic, pracademic or practitioner) impacts their view of partnership. We include the term pracademic to mean an individual who has worked as a practitioner and an academic, not necessarily simultaneously. Quantitative analysis identified that there was very little statistically significant difference in the responses between groups. Pracademics considered that 'institutional and cultural' and 'lack of the respect of the other role' were more significant barriers than the other groups. Association was also found between those with greater experience of research and the view that partnership 'improved legitimacy in practice' and 'increased legitimacy of research'. There was also statistical significance in those with more than average experience of partnership who identified 'improved legitimacy in practice' as a benefit of partnership. Reflexive thematic analysis of free text comments identified a need and demand for partnership with three key themes developed as being necessary for successful partnership. These are the 'three 'R's' - the need for effective communication and the development of a Relationship; the Relevance of the partnership to the participants role; and the inclusion of personal Reward such as improved practice or better research.
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11
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Lepot L, Vanhouche M, Vanden Driessche T, Lunstroot K. Interpol review of fibres and textiles 2019-2022. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 6:100307. [PMID: 36588587 PMCID: PMC9794884 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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12
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Wienroth M, Amankwaa AO, McCartney C. Integrity, Trustworthiness, and Effectiveness: Towards an Ethos for Forensic Genetics. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1453. [PMID: 36011364 PMCID: PMC9408663 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Forensic genetics comes under critical scrutiny when developments challenge previously accepted legal, ethical, social, and other boundaries. Forensic geneticists continue to build a knowledge culture within a community of practice that acknowledges ethical standards of conduct in both research and the societal application of forensic genetics. As the community further cements and extends its societal role, and in that process often pushing at ethical and legal boundaries, it requires a strong, resilient, and responsive ethos that, in setting clear parameters for conduct, fosters the field's sense of purpose. While supra-national declarations and human rights protections, coupled with local regulations, provide some parameters for practice, and discipline-specific guidance has refined an agenda for forensic genetics research and application, this maturing field needs to now define its core principles. This contribution proposes the values of integrity, trustworthiness, and effectiveness as a foundational triptych for a bespoke forensic genetics ethos to ensure the augmentation of developments that range from a purely science-oriented to a wider societally relevant knowledge culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Wienroth
- Centre for Crime and Policing, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Aaron Opoku Amankwaa
- Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Carole McCartney
- Leicester Law School, Leicester University, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
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13
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Espinoza-Silva PV, López-Lázaro S, Fonseca GM. Forensic odontology and dental age estimation research: a scoping review a decade after the NAS report on strengthening forensic science. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2022:10.1007/s12024-022-00499-w. [PMID: 35781622 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-022-00499-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Dental age estimation (DAE) is one of the most reliable and useful scientific methods employed by forensic odontology (FO) for human identification. In 2009, the US National Academy of Sciences (NAS) report highlighted the need to deepen research in many disciplines, among which FO received strong criticism for specific expertise. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview in order to systematically map the latest original research done in FO, as well as identify DAE within this field. A systematic search was performed from 2014 to 2019. In total, 644 studies were identified for qualitative analysis: DAE was the most studied topic (41.30%). Asia was the most productive continent with 58.27% of the global production on DAE; India was the most productive Asian country, with 32.33% and 55.48% of global and Asian production, respectively. The University of Macerata (Italy), KU Leuven (Belgium), University of Split (Croatia), and University of São Paulo (Brazil) led DAE research. Authors from leading countries on DAE research demonstrated great individual productivity, which is evidence of their scientific efforts, but also possible risks if the continuity of this line of research depends on them. Although FO has significantly focused its research on DAE, the absence of publications on controversial topics but necessary for research according to the NAS report shows the possible lack of interest of authors or journals to address them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Valentina Espinoza-Silva
- Programa de Magister en Odontología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Unidad de Estimación de Edad Dental, Centro de Investigación en Odontología Legal y Forense -CIO, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Region de la Araucania, 4780000, Chile
| | - Sandra López-Lázaro
- Programa de Magister en Odontología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Unidad de Estimación de Edad Dental, Centro de Investigación en Odontología Legal y Forense -CIO, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Region de la Araucania, 4780000, Chile.,Departamento de Antropología Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriel M Fonseca
- Programa de Magister en Odontología, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile. .,Unidad de Estimación de Edad Dental, Centro de Investigación en Odontología Legal y Forense -CIO, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Region de la Araucania, 4780000, Chile.
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14
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Why teach crime scene management to forensic university students? Sci Justice 2022; 62:735-739. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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15
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Roux C, Bucht R, Crispino F, De Forest P, Lennard C, Margot P, Miranda MD, NicDaeid N, Ribaux O, Ross A, Willis S. The Sydney declaration - Revisiting the essence of forensic science through its fundamental principles. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 332:111182. [PMID: 35074711 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Unlike other more established disciplines, a shared understanding and broad acceptance of the essence of forensic science, its purpose, and fundamental principles are still missing or mis-represented. This foundation has been overlooked, although recognised by many forensic science forefathers and seen as critical to this discipline's advancement. The Sydney Declaration attempts to revisit the essence of forensic science through its foundational basis, beyond organisations, technicalities or protocols. It comprises a definition of forensic science and seven fundamental principles that emphasise the pivotal role of the trace as a vestige, or remnant, of an investigated activity. The Sydney Declaration also discusses critical features framing the forensic scientist's work, such as context, time asymmetry, the continuum of uncertainties, broad scientific knowledge, ethics, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. It is argued that the proposed principles should underpin the practice of forensic science and guide education and research directions. Ultimately, they will benefit forensic science as a whole to be more relevant, effective and reliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Roux
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Bucht
- Forensic Laboratory, Finnish National Bureau of Investigation, Finland
| | - Frank Crispino
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Criminalistique, Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Peter De Forest
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, USA
| | - Chris Lennard
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Australia
| | - Pierre Margot
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Niamh NicDaeid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, UK
| | - Olivier Ribaux
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | | | - Sheila Willis
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, UK
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Morrison GS. Advancing a paradigm shift in evaluation of forensic evidence: The rise of forensic data science. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 5:100270. [PMID: 35634572 PMCID: PMC9133770 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Widespread practice across the majority of branches of forensic science uses analytical methods based on human perception, and interpretive methods based on subjective judgement. These methods are non-transparent and are susceptible to cognitive bias, interpretation is often logically flawed, and forensic-evaluation systems are often not empirically validated. I describe a paradigm shift in which existing methods are replaced by methods based on relevant data, quantitative measurements, and statistical models; methods that are transparent and reproducible, are intrinsically resistant to cognitive bias, use the logically correct framework for interpretation of evidence (the likelihood-ratio framework), and are empirically validated under casework conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Stewart Morrison
- Forensic Data Science Laboratory, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Forensic Evaluation Ltd, Birmingham, UK
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van Oorschot RAH, Meakin GE, Kokshoorn B, Goray M, Szkuta B. DNA Transfer in Forensic Science: Recent Progress towards Meeting Challenges. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12111766. [PMID: 34828372 PMCID: PMC8618004 DOI: 10.3390/genes12111766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the factors that may impact the transfer, persistence, prevalence and recovery of DNA (DNA-TPPR), and the availability of data to assign probabilities to DNA quantities and profile types being obtained given particular scenarios and circumstances, is paramount when performing, and giving guidance on, evaluations of DNA findings given activity level propositions (activity level evaluations). In late 2018 and early 2019, three major reviews were published on aspects of DNA-TPPR, with each advocating the need for further research and other actions to support the conduct of DNA-related activity level evaluations. Here, we look at how challenges are being met, primarily by providing a synopsis of DNA-TPPR-related articles published since the conduct of these reviews and briefly exploring some of the actions taken by industry stakeholders towards addressing identified gaps. Much has been carried out in recent years, and efforts continue, to meet the challenges to continually improve the capacity of forensic experts to provide the guidance sought by the judiciary with respect to the transfer of DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland A. H. van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia
- School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Georgina E. Meakin
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
- Centre for the Forensic Sciences, Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London WC1H 9EZ, UK
| | - Bas Kokshoorn
- Netherlands Forensic Institute, 2497 GB The Hague, The Netherlands;
- Faculty of Technology, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, 1097 DZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mariya Goray
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia;
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia;
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