Forensic science, which is known as the application of science to the law, is used in crime laboratories worldwide. Forensic science has a tendency to find itself as the center of attention throughout our Nation; and not just the starring role of the hit Television show, “CSI.” From great advances to devastating criticisms, forensic science has built itself an identity throughout the law enforcement community.
Forensic science has many roles within our society. It can aid law enforcement in investigations, help gain convictions, or exonerate the innocent. The steady advancement of forensic science led to the development of crime laboratories. Services of a crime laboratory may include: toxicology, biology, pathology, odontology, psychiatry, fingerprint examination, and firearm examination; just to name a few. No matter the discipline, forensic science is only as reliable as the scientist’s abilities. With that said, standards and reforms are necessary in order to keep up with the advancements of today’s technology.
On February 18, 2009, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) in Washington, D. C. compiled a report, titled, “Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States-A Path Forward,” in an effort to develop and support forensic science and further research. The report was created to identify the issues of the forensic science community with hopes to improve forensic science as a whole. It made mention of the crucial mistakes made by crime laboratories, including those made by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), that have put a damper on the overall view of forensic science throughout the law enforcement community, scientific community, and the general population as a whole.
Despite these errors, scientists are learning from their mistakes and are hoping to create standards to keep up with the ever-changing technology and society. Forensic science will continue to grow within the law enforcement field and crime laboratories worldwide. Only the future holds what significant advancements may be made possible through the development of an already beneficial avenue of science.
Megan M. Bessey, MS
Beckfield College
Criminal Justice Department
Crime Lab Coordinator/Adjunct Professor