Technology is one of the major factors that has reshaped forensic science over the last few decades. What was once unimaginable has now become common place because of technology. Nowhere are these dramatic changes more evident than in forensic DNA analysis capabilities.
Significant advances in forensic science and technology have been made in just the last 50 to 75 years. The two areas most significantly affected by these advances, which have allowed investigators to reevaluate old cases with new tools, are cold case investigations (i.e., usually homicide or sexual assault) and exonerating individuals wrongfully convicted. The class will be divided into groups to explore these topics closely.
You are also strongly encouraged to review the recommended sources, which may further support this discussion forum. You will be assigned to topics by last name to complete this discussion forum.
You will be assigned as follows if your last name begins with the following letters:
From the perspective of your assigned topic, evaluate modern science’s potential in reevaluating evidence from historical cases. Provide examples and specific details about what has changed and the impact it has had on the criminal justice system.
The instructor has the discretion to reassign students to an alternative category to ensure topics are all covered.
The body of your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with examples from this week’s required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources and properly cite any references. Remember science is objective, not a matter of subjective opinions.