Introduction to Criminalistics: The Foundation of Forensic Science

Introduction to Criminalistics covers the basics of Criminalistics in a textbook for a one or two semester course, with the intention of preparing the student for a future in forensic science.

The role of the Criminalist is to analyze, compare, identify, and interpret physical evidence in the crime lab. These crime labs, or forensic labs, have two primary functions: identifying evidence and linking the suspect, victim, and crime scene through physical evidence.

This new primer introduces the learner to the structure and organization of the crime lab and to the role of the Criminalist. It features real cases - recent and historic - to illustrate concepts. Colorful pedagogy clearly defines chapter elements and sets this text apart from next best. Topics covered include how to process a crime scene and preserve evidence, the basic principles of firearm examination, latent fingerprints, and rudimentary toxicology, or how to determine the presence or absence of drugs and poisons.

Well organized and methodical, this textbook has the potential to become the standard text for applying techniques of the physical and natural sciences to examining physical evidence.

Uses real cases – recent and historic – to illustrate conceptsColorful pedagogy clearly defines chapter elements and sets this text apart from next bestPresents the basics of forensic sciences in a one-semester or one-year courseOffers excellent preparation for professional examinationsDelivers the latest in laboratory technique while acknowledging the limits of technology

Section I: Introduction, Field and Laboratory

Chapter 1
Forensic Science – Scope and Perspective from Scene to Laboratory
Barry Fisher

Section II: Pattern Evidence

Chapter 2 Introduction to Pattern Evidence - Tool Marks and Impressions
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 3 Firearms
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 4 Fingerprints
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 5 Documents
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 6 Physical Evidence
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 7 Hair and Fiber
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Section III: Chemical and Instrumental Analytical Evidence

Chapter 8 Drugs and Pharmaceuticals
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 9 Arson and Explosives
Catherine Woytowicz and Bill Tilstone

Chapter 10 Forensic Toxicology
Bill Tilstone

Section IV: Biological Evidence

Chapter 11 Forensic Biology
Bill Tilstone

Chapter 12 DNA
Bill Tilstone

Appendices

A. Personal Effects and Identification
B. Digital Evidence
C. Crime Reconstruction