On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

·         demonstrate knowledge of organisational and legal aspects of forensic chemistry;

·         demonstrate knowledge of accreditation procedures employed in forensic chemistry;

·         give an account of procedures followed at the scene of a crime and of the types of physical evidence;

·         demonstrate knowledge of the different forms of analysis applied to different forms of physical evidence.

·         demonstrate knowledge of crime scene management;

·             demonstrate recording of a crime scene

·             give an account of procedures followed at the scene of a crime and of the types of physical evidence

·             give an account of the potential utility of chemical methods in examination of forensic evidence

Topic

1

What is forensic science?  Locard’s Principle. The nature of forensic evidence. Forensic science categories. The history of forensic science and its place in modern society. When is forensic science needed?

2

Providers of forensic science, SSU,  LGC, DSTL, independent practitioners. Accreditation and registration.

3

Crime scene investigation. The nature of a crime scene. Zoning and crime scene management. Collection, protection and documenting of evidence.

4

Workshop: documenting a ‘crime scene’

5-6

Scene profiling, DVD ‘The Natural History of Murder’

7

General tutorial

8-9

Trace and contact evidence. Direct and circumstantial evidence. Physical and biological evidence. Class and individual characteristics. Fingerprint evidence. Blood as evidence.

10-11

General examination methods (fibres, blood, biological fluids, firearms, explosives).

12

Workshop: obtaining fingerprint evidence

13

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION TEST (15% of module mark)

14

Workshop: obtaining and recording tool wear marks

15-16

Introduction to the law. Criminal court system ( and , ). Types of offences. CPS, types of courts. Preparation of statements and presentation of forensic evidence.

17-18

Forensic science on trial: the Preece case, the Guildford 4, the Birmingham 6, the Macguire 7, Judith Ward case, the May enquiry, judicial reform.

19-22

Forensic case studies: interactive sessions – you conduct the case.

23

Exam tutorial.

10 hours

Forensic chemistry practicals including investigations on topics such as:

White Powders

Analysis of Drugs by Infrared Spectroscopy

Bloodstains on the ground

Salicylates in blood

A pool of evidence

Quinine in urine