Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward

by National Research Council, Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences, Committee on Applied and Theoretical Statistics

Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.

Genres: Law

348 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2009

About the author

The National Research Council (NRC) functions under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), and the Institute of Medicine (IOM). The NAS, NAE, IOM, and NRC are part of a private, nonprofit institution that provides science, technology and health policy advice under a congressional charter signed by President Abraham Lincoln that was originally granted to the NAS in 1863. Under this charter, the NRC was established in 1916, the NAE in 1964, and the IOM in 1970. The four organizations are collectively referred to as the National Academies.

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Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gen lab training

[Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

A few years have passed since its publication so hopefully some improvements have been made. Overall, a very interesting and eye-opening read!

[Sylvester · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a must read for all forensic practitioners, this report focuses on improving the practice of forensic science by examining if there is validity in the analyses and if they can be presented to the courts. It also have chapters on forensic science education in the United States which I did not find helpful but nonetheless there should be a standard.

[Bruno Sánchez-Andrade · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want to get away from jury duty, just mention this phrase or bring the book.
Page 7: “With the exception of nuclear DNA analysis, however, no forensic method has been rigorously shown to have the capacity to consistently, and with a high degree of certainty, demonstrate a connection between evidence and a specific individual or source.”

[Royce Ratterman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for a forensic course and personal research. Overall, a good book for any researcher and/or enthusiast.
I found this book's contents helpful and inspiring - number rating relates to the book's contribution to my needs and the university course.
Explanations, including varying scholarly views and the plethora of material related in this book, are fabulous.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for anyone in the criminal justice system.