Forensic science implements new innovative technologies to generate faster and more accurate results for investigators.
FREMONT, CA: Forensic science has long been considered one of the most challenging processes in an investigation. The accuracy and efficiency of the forensic team highly impact the mode of criminal investigations. But the emerging technological innovations have immensely developed forensic science and its findings. The digital transformation has enabled forensic technology to develop innovative methods to deal with the new-age criminals, who are equally armed with technological weapons and loopholes.
Let us understand some of the recent trends in forensic technology.
DNA analysis: Advanced technology like DNA sequencing of phenotyping enables forensic experts to merge genomics and computer for creating sketches of criminals through available DNA from the crime site. A human DNA shows the trail of possibilities when generated through a computer. It helps determine sex, age, eye colour, and height with the best accuracy.
Artificial intelligence: AI enables investigators with an enormous data pool in the form of audio and video recordings, social media, and e-communications. AI can help investigators win the race against time while collecting evidence through its faster data analysis process.
Hair bacteria assessment: In cases of sexual assault, hair samples play a vital role in detecting the match of the criminal with the victim. During sexual activity, microbes in hair samples mix. Examination of these microbes can lead to the criminal and the crime scene.
Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS): An LA-ICP-MS machine has the capability to find minute glass pieces found in the body of a criminal or victim and the place of crime. It is used to determine bullet speed, its direction of fire, and the weapon category.
Body farms: The human body corpse is left to decay in conditions such as wet, dry, and various soil types to research the factors that happen with the decaying body.
Technology advancements have empowered forensics to give more accurate and faster results to help forensic experts conclude any case in reduced time.
It's not just that the accuracy of different forms of forensic equipment varies. As per the latest research by The National Research Council, forensic results are not 100 per cent accurate due to a lack of expertise, regulations, and uniformity throughout forensic laboratories and enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and local levels. While the approach may produce precise results, forensic protocols are rarely followed exactly, which can lead to varying degrees of effectiveness.
