Kenny Lorenzano

Forensic Science E-Block

Intro to Forensic Science

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When I think of forensic science I think of murder, crime scenes, corpses, and dna
testing.
- Forensic Science - The application of scientific knowledge to questions of civil and
criminal law.
What will we learn in this class?
- This course is a hands-on course that will explore what forensic scientists do. You will
carry out modern and traditional forensic methods used to analyze evidence.
What is the focus of this class?
- Course focus is on the collection and analysis of crime scene evidence (such as serology,
toxicology, entomology, odontology and trace evidence)
- Exploration of lab analysis techniques, (such as chromatography, DNA analysis,
fingerprinting, and hair and footprint analysis).
- Forensic science in the media will also be considered in this course.
Course Topics & Perspective
- Forensic scientists are required to testify in court about their analysis of evidence.
- To make a convincing case, you need to be able to clearly and concisely explain your
results and their significance.
- Finally, mock crime scenes (ie labs with mysteries attached to them) will be investigated
and real case studies analyzed.
Interdisciplinary Relationships
- Forensics is a diverse field made up of many different specialists working together.
- Forget what you see on CSI: Forensic scientists dont wear high heels or mini skirts to a
crime scene. They rarely interview suspects or make arrests. They are not experts in all
areas of forensic investigations. Rather, forensic experts usually specialize in one or two
branches of forensic investigation such as DNA analysis or ballistics.
Why do we look to science for assistance in our legal system?
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Increasing Crime Rates

New or Changed Laws
New Crimes
New Weapons
Response to Public Concerns
Response to Law Enforcement Concerns

Applying Science to Law

- Applying science to the Criminal Justice System depends on a scientists ability to supply
accurate & objective information that reflects the events that have occurred at a crime.

Kenny Lorenzano
Forensic Science E-Block

Identification of Criminals or Victims

Solving Mysteries
Past crimes (unsolved or wrongfully convicted)
Cause, Location, Time of Death
Paternity cases