Forensic Ballistics In Court

Author : Brian J. Heard
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 406 pages
File Size : 47,5 Mb
Release : 2013-05-13
Category : Medical
ISBN : 9781119962687

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Forensic Ballistics in Court by Brian J. Heard Pdf

Forensic Ballistics in Court: Interpretation and Presentation of Firearms Evidence is an accessible introduction to firearms and ballistics evidence and how this is analysed and presented as evidence in a court of law. The book approaches the subject in terms of the realities of case work, opening with a clear and illustrated explanation of the correct nomenclature for various weapon types and their parts. Ammunition is also extensively covered, again with annotated illustrations. Basic external and terminal ballistics, wounding capabilities are likewise covered to give an overview of the subject. A key aspect of the book covers the theory and philosophy behind striation matches and the associated statistics, how positive matches should be peer reviewed and the importance accreditation has on this subject. Gunshot residue formation and identification and the various methods used in its analysis are reviewed in depth. This includes a critical examination of the pros and cons of each type of examination and the evidential weight which can be applied to each method. Accessible and reader-friendly introduction to firearms and ballistics. Clarifies the limitations of firearms evidence. Extensive use of global case-studies throughout. Focus on the interpretation and assessment of the weight of firearms/ballistics evidence presented at court. Covers the importance of witness and accused statements and their interpretation in relation to the investigation under review. Includes coverage of gunshot residue collection, examination and interpretation and the potential for contamination of GSR samples. Includes numerous real life case studies that the author has dealt with over the past 45 years. Takes an applied approach to the subject.

Author : Margaret-Ann Armour
Publisher : CRC Press
Page : 475 pages
File Size : 55,9 Mb
Release : 2004-10-14
Category : Law
ISBN : 9780203568224

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Firearms, the Law, and Forensic Ballistics by Margaret-Ann Armour Pdf

Firearms, the Law, and Forensic Ballistics, Second Edition offers a comprehensive reference on the forensic science of firearms. It describes what happens when a weapon is fired in terms of internal, external, and terminal/ wound ballistics, and discusses the consequences for the forensic scientist both at the scene of the shooting and in the labor

Author : Brian J. Heard
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 320 pages
File Size : 42,8 Mb
Release : 2011-08-17
Category : Law
ISBN : 9781119964773

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Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics by Brian J. Heard Pdf

The updated second edition of Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics includes recent developed analytical techniques and methodologies with a more comprehensive glossary, additional material, and new case studies. With a new chapter on the determination of bullet caliber via x-ray photography, this edition includes revised material on muzzle attachments, proof marks, non-toxic bullets, and gunshot residues. Essential reading for forensic scientists, firearms examiners, defense and prosecution practitioners, the judiciary, and police force, this book is also a helpful reference guide for undergraduate and graduate forensic science students.

Author : Tom Warlow
Publisher : CRC Press
Page : 518 pages
File Size : 47,9 Mb
Release : 2011-11-17
Category : Law
ISBN : 9781439818282

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Firearms, the Law, and Forensic Ballistics by Tom Warlow Pdf

While gun design has undergone only minimal change over the centuries, investigative tools surrounding firearm use have grown significantly in sophistication. Now in its third edition, Firearms, the Law, and Forensic Ballistics has been updated to reflect recently published research and new technology developed since the last volume. Beginning with

Author : J.K. Sinha
Publisher : CRC Press
Page : 216 pages
File Size : 47,5 Mb
Release : 2014-11-07
Category : Law
ISBN : 9781466571372

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Forensic Investigation of Unusual Firearms by J.K. Sinha Pdf

In recent years, the use of illegally produced firearms has increased exponentially worldwide. These are often cheap, nonstandard firearms that defy known classification and identification criteria. The use of unusual firearms in crimes has frequently led to unpredictable and misleading reconstruction of shooting incidents. In this book, internationally known forensic firearm expert, J.K. Sinha, presents a detailed forensic study of unusual firearms, with the goal of helping crime-scene investigators to minimize erroneous conclusions in cases where these types of firearms are used. Based on his extensive experimentation with more than 1,000 nonstandard firearms, the author identifies new class characteristic parameters needed to establish linkage of projectiles with irregular rifled and smoothbore barrels. The book begins with an introduction to unusual firearms and proceeds to discuss forensic investigation of fired bullets, medico-legal evidence, barrel marks on fired shots, and investigation of fired cartridges and shot charge. Chapters also cover topics such as timing of firing, unusual rifling marks, shooter identification, and unusual bullet hole evaluations. Providing concise yet complete techniques for making forensic analyses and conclusions, this is the first book of its kind to critically examine the use of unusual, nonstandard firearms in perpetrating crimes. It is intended for professionals and academicians working in the field: forensic firearm experts and consultants, forensic medicine professionals and medico-legal experts, prosecution and defense attorneys, enforcement agencies and judiciary, university students and researchers studying forensic science, forensic medicine, criminology and law.

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Committee on Applied and Theoretical Statistics,Policy and Global Affairs,Committee on Science, Technology, and Law,Committee on Identifying the Needs of the Forensic Sciences Community
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 348 pages
File Size : 48,7 Mb
Release : 2009-07-29
Category : Law
ISBN : 9780309142397

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Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,Committee on Applied and Theoretical Statistics,Policy and Global Affairs,Committee on Science, Technology, and Law,Committee on Identifying the Needs of the Forensic Sciences Community Pdf

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 States: 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 clear: 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.

Author : Christine Beck Lissitzyn,Marc Wm Vallen
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 0 pages
File Size : 46,7 Mb
Release : 2018
Category : Evidence, Criminal
ISBN : 1531002234

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Forensic Evidence in Court by Christine Beck Lissitzyn,Marc Wm Vallen Pdf

The second edition of Forensic Evidence in Court updates the original version, which was published in 2007. This edition continues to focus on the use of forensic evidence in criminal trials by examining particular case studies. In addition, it adds two new topics: 1. Computer and Digital Forensics 2. Firearms, Ballistics, and Toolmarks This edition includes several significant developments in the use of forensic evidence at trial since 2007. The first is the U.S. Supreme Court case, Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts, which established a right under the Confrontation Clause of the U.S. Constitution to cross-examine certain forensic analysts. That case involved an analyst who certified that a substance linked to the defendant was cocaine. This right was subsequently extended to an analyst who performed a blood alcohol test. However, when the Supreme Court was asked to rule on the applicability of this rule to DNA examiners, it stated that the examiner would be required to testify only if the results of the test were "testimonial" in nature. The case has been criticized and some lower courts have subsequently refused to follow it. Another significant development was the release of a report on the scientific reliability of forensic testing in many different areas issued by the National Research Council. The Report, called Strengthening Forensic Evidence: A Path Forward, called for more scientific testing and for standardization in qualification of examiners and in laboratory conditions. The only area of forensic examination that the report viewed as scientifically reliable is DNA. Various government agencies have been established to attempt to implement some of these recommendations. Funding is obviously a huge obstacle to implementing many of the recommendations. A development in forensics itself involved the extension of newer technologies in DNA testing, including a process called "Low Copy DNA," which tests quantities previously too small to type as well as DNA test kits that can be used at crime sites. A further development is the expansion of computer hacking, computer fraud and the ubiquitous nature of computers in society. We have added a new chapter to reflect what will continue to be a contentious issue in court-- "proving location and events with digital evidence." Advances in the psychological sciences have results in courts addressing issues of eyewitness testimony. Courts are coming to realize that eyewitness identifications are not as reliable as once thought. As such, courts are struggling with how best to address these issues: through jury instructions, expert testimony, or though some other method. It has come to light that eyewitness identification issues once thought to be within the "ken" of the average juror are most certainly not, and are appropriate for some manner of court intervention. This book can be used in courses for the following degrees: paralegal, criminal justice, sociology, and political science. Forensic Evidence in Court is also appropriate for use in a legal specialty course. Assignments include case law research, study of rules of evidence, how to select and prepare an expert witness, comparison of legal tests used to admit forensic evidence, study of standards used to review admission of forensic experts on appeal, and written work demonstrating critical analysis. Any attorney can teach this course, using the Teacher's Manual and sample assignments. Adjuncts experienced in criminal law or extensive use of expert testimony are particularly well suited. Guest lecturers from state forensic laboratories and state law enforcement forensic investigators give added perspective.

Author : J. K. Sinha
Publisher : CRC Press
Page : 126 pages
File Size : 55,5 Mb
Release : 2024-06-21
Category : Law
ISBN : 9781351023849

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Forensic Firearms in Criminal Trials by J. K. Sinha Pdf

Over the last two‐plus decades, the scientific validity of the principles that underpin identifying a firearm from recovered fired ammunition has been a core issue for the admissibility of expert evidence in criminal trials in the United States. The issues that dominated the determinative points, as they related to the scientific and technological analysis, centered around the following: the validity of uniqueness of firearms, subjective methodology, the potential rate of error, unknown statistical certainty and unsatisfactory proficiency tests. These issues have essentially become the legal requirement for admissibility of experts’ opinion on the linkage of firearms with fired ammunition, an important forensic opinion that connects the crime with the perpetrator through the weapon of offence. In Forensic Firearms in Criminal Trials: Legal, Investigative, and Scientific Aspects, internationally renowned forensic firearm expert Dr J. K. Sinha provides demonstrative explanations and helpful clarifications using simple illustrative examples from scientific casework and everyday life. The goals are to: Prove the scientific validity of the uniqueness of identifying features of firearms Identify the statistical threshold to qualify and determine a corresponding match Debunk the misconception of subjective methodology and the potential rate of error thereof in experts’ decision making and opinions Clarify the prevailing perception of similar, dissimilar and insufficient marks and consequential interpretation With certain non‐technical readers in mind as well, the book provides a basic understanding of the general make‐up of firearms and ammunition, the evidentiary values of commonly used firearms, fired empties, fired bullets and pellets, and scientific investigative leads that result from visual and physical evidence. Chapters cover related topics such as proficiency tests, identifying competent experts, admitted firing, and reliable and testable methodology. The book also reviews the admissibility of expert evidence in India and explains the proviso of admissibility of ballistic expert report in criminal trials. Throughout, the author emphasizes the need for requisite forensic knowledge by the investigator and aided by a competent expert for effective scientific investigation of gunfire crimes such as would aid in the proper presentation of scientific evidence at criminal trial for a successful outcome.

Author : Jack Disbrow Gunther,Charles O. Gunther
Publisher : Simon and Schuster
Page : 552 pages
File Size : 43,6 Mb
Release : 2015-05-19
Category : Sports & Recreation
ISBN : 9781632207814

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The Identification of Firearms by Jack Disbrow Gunther,Charles O. Gunther Pdf

The 1930s was a decade that provided impressive breakthroughs in the field of forensic ballistics, or firearms identification. Following the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre of 1929, where ballistic expert Calvin Goddard’s testimony brought attention to the relatively new field, several forensic ballistic books were published. Among these were Burrard’s The Identification of Firearms and Forensic Ballistics and Hatcher’s Textbook of Firearms Investigations, Identification, and Evidence. Burrard introduced forensic examination to the British judicial system; Hatcher applied his considerable knowledge of firearms and ammunition to weapons’ design, manufacture, and testing. Gunthers’ The Identification of Firearms combined the approaches of these volumes into a new book that emphasized both the painstaking scientific methodology vital to firearms identification, complete with ballistics photographs, and its practical use by analyses of several legal cases where firearms identification was used. These include the infamous Sacco-Vanzetti case, the first in American legal history where forensic ballistics played a very prominent role in courtroom proceedings. The Gunther brothers utilized their respective legal and military experience to provide a comprehensive reference volume that is noteworthy for those interested in law enforcement or ballistics as well as gun enthusiasts.

Author : Brandon L. Garrett
Publisher : Univ of California Press
Page : 261 pages
File Size : 44,5 Mb
Release : 2022-03
Category : Law
ISBN : 9780520389656

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Autopsy of a Crime Lab by Brandon L. Garrett Pdf

This book exposes the dangerously imperfect forensic evidence that we rely on for criminal convictions. "That's not my fingerprint, your honor," said the defendant, after FBI experts reported a "100-percent identification." The FBI was wrong. It is shocking how often they are. Autopsy of a Crime Lab is the first book to catalog the sources of error and the faulty science behind a range of well-known forensic evidence, from fingerprints and firearms to forensic algorithms. In this devastating forensic takedown, noted legal expert Brandon L. Garrett poses the questions that should be asked in courtrooms every day: Where are the studies that validate the basic premises of widely accepted techniques such as fingerprinting? How can experts testify with 100-percent certainty about a fingerprint, when there is no such thing as a 100 percent match? Where is the quality control at the crime scenes and in the laboratories? Should we so readily adopt powerful new technologies like facial recognition software and rapid DNA machines? And why have judges been so reluctant to consider the weaknesses of so many long-accepted methods? Taking us into the lives of the wrongfully convicted or nearly convicted, into crime labs rocked by scandal, and onto the front lines of promising reform efforts driven by professionals and researchers alike, Autopsy of a Crime Lab illustrates the persistence and perniciousness of shaky science and its well-meaning practitioners.

Author : National Research Council,Division on Earth and Life Studies,Board on Chemical Sciences and Technology,Committee on Scientific Assessment of Bullet Lead Elemental Composition Comparison
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 226 pages
File Size : 55,7 Mb
Release : 2004-03-26
Category : Law
ISBN : 9780309166430

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Forensic Analysis by National Research Council,Division on Earth and Life Studies,Board on Chemical Sciences and Technology,Committee on Scientific Assessment of Bullet Lead Elemental Composition Comparison Pdf

Since the 1960s, testimony by representatives of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in thousands of criminal cases has relied on evidence from Compositional Analysis of Bullet Lead (CABL), a forensic technique that compares the elemental composition of bullets found at a crime scene to the elemental composition of bullets found in a suspect's possession. Different from ballistics techniques that compare striations on the barrel of a gun to those on a recovered bullet, CABL is used when no gun is recovered or when bullets are too small or mangled to observe striations. Forensic Analysis: Weighing Bullet Lead Evidence assesses the scientific validity of CABL, finding that the FBI should use a different statistical analysis for the technique and that, given variations in bullet manufacturing processes, expert witnesses should make clear the very limited conclusions that CABL results can support. The report also recommends that the FBI take additional measures to ensure the validity of CABL results, which include improving documentation, publishing details, and improving on training and oversight.

Author : National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,National Materials Advisory Board,Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education,Committee on National Statistics,Committee on Law and Justice,Committee to Assess the Feasibility, Accuracy, and Technical Capability of a National Ballistics Database
Publisher : National Academies Press
Page : 345 pages
File Size : 53,8 Mb
Release : 2008-10-10
Category : Political Science
ISBN : 9780309117241

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Ballistic Imaging by National Research Council,Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences,National Materials Advisory Board,Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education,Committee on National Statistics,Committee on Law and Justice,Committee to Assess the Feasibility, Accuracy, and Technical Capability of a National Ballistics Database Pdf

Ballistic Imaging assesses the state of computer-based imaging technology in forensic firearms identification. The book evaluates the current law enforcement database of images of crime-related cartridge cases and bullets and recommends ways to improve the usefulness of the technology for suggesting leads in criminal investigations. It also advises against the construction of a national reference database that would include images from test-fires of every newly manufactured or imported firearm in the United States. The book also suggests further research on an alternate method for generating an investigative lead to the location where a gun was first sold: "microstamping," the direct imprinting of unique identifiers on firearm parts or ammunition.

Author : Julian Sommerville Hatcher
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 378 pages
File Size : 51,9 Mb
Release : 1935
Category : Firearms
ISBN : WISC:89090037326

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Textbook of Firearms Investigation, Identification and Evidence by Julian Sommerville Hatcher Pdf

Author : Vincent J.M. DiMaio, M.D.
Publisher : CRC Press
Page : 432 pages
File Size : 45,8 Mb
Release : 1998-12-30
Category : Law
ISBN : 1420048376

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Gunshot Wounds by Vincent J.M. DiMaio, M.D. Pdf

Written by the nation's foremost authority on gunshot wounds and forensic techniques as they relate to firearm injuries, Gunshot Wounds: Practical Aspects of Firearms, Ballistics, and Forensic Techniques, Second Edition provides critical information on gunshot wounds and the weapons and ammunition used to inflict them. The book describes practical aspects of ballistics, wound ballistics, and the classification of various wounds caused by handguns, bang guns, rifles, and shotguns. The final chapters explain autopsy technique and procedure and laboratory analysis relating to weapons and gunshot evidence.

Author : Craig Adam
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 336 pages
File Size : 54,9 Mb
Release : 2016-07-12
Category : Law
ISBN : 9781119054436

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Forensic Evidence in Court by Craig Adam Pdf

The interpretation and evaluation of scientific evidence and its presentation in a court of law is central both to the role of the forensic scientist as an expert witness and to the interests of justice. This book aims to provide a thorough and detailed discussion of the principles and practice of evidence interpretation and evaluation by using real cases by way of illustration. The presentation is appropriate for students of forensic science or related disciplines at advanced undergraduate and master's level or for practitioners engaged in continuing professional development activity. The book is structured in three sections. The first sets the scene by describing and debating the issues around the admissibility and reliability of scientific evidence presented to the court. In the second section, the principles underpinning interpretation and evaluation are explained, including discussion of those formal statistical methods founded on Bayesian inference. The following chapters present perspectives on the evaluation and presentation of evidence in the context of a single type or class of scientific evidence, from DNA to the analysis of documents. For each, the science underpinning the analysis and interpretation of the forensic materials is explained, followed by the presentation of cases which illustrate the variety of approaches that have been taken in providing expert scientific opinion.