CJ 267 Introduction to Forensics

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Presents a survey of basic crime scene-related forensic science and standard evidence collection. Covers physical evidence, glass, hairs, fibers, paint, arson and explosions, biological samples, blood patterns, DNA, fingerprints, automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS), firearms, tool marks, computers, and the Internet. Includes emphasis on chain of custody, and explores future developments in forensic science. Enables hands-on application. Introduces a wide variety of reliable evidence retrieval techniques needed for successful prosecution of criminal cases.

Corequisite: CJ 103 with criminal history clearance; or current professional in the field; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain the importance of forensic science as a tool used by both prosecution and defense in criminal and civil court cases.
Employ a variety of evidence gathering techniques.
Use strategies to recognize forensic evidence at different types of crime scenes.
Discuss best processing techniques used to collect, reconstruct, and preserve evidence.
Identify basic forensic equipment, devices, and machinery.
Identify potential transfer evidence between victims and offenders.
Describe common ways people attempt to dispose, alter, or destroy evidence.

Content Outline

The Crime Scene and Field Investigations
Documenting a Crime Scene
Physical Evidence and Chain of Custody
Controlled Substances
Hairs, Fibers, Glass, and Paint
Aspects of Arson and Explosion Investigations
Biology Processing and Blood Patterns
DNA Analysis
Fingerprints, Impressions, and AFIS
Firearms, Tool Marks, and Other Impressions
Computer Forensics
Forensic Science and the Internet
The Future of Forensics