DNA and Property Crime Scene Investigation: Forensic Evidence and Law Enforcement

Traditionally, forensic investigation has not been fully utilized in the investigation of property crime. This ground-breaking book examines the experiences of patrol officers, command staff, detectives, and chiefs as they navigate the expectations of forensic evidence in criminal cases, specifically property crimes cases. DNA and Property Crime Scene Investigation looks at the current state of forensic technology and, using interviews with police officers, command staff, forensic technicians, and prosecutors, elucidates who is doing the work of forensic investigation. It explores how better training can decrease backlogs in forensic evidence processing and prevent mishandling of crucial evidence. Concluding with a police chief’s perspective on the approach, DNA and Property Crime Scene Investigation provides insight into an emerging and important approach to property crime scene investigation.

Key Features

• Provides practical information on implementing forensic investigation for property crimes
• Examines the current state of forensic technology and points to future trends
• Includes a police chief’s perspective on the forensic approach to investigating property crimes
• Utilizes interviews with professionals in the field to demonstrate the benefits of the approach

David A. Makin, Ph.D., is a Research Fellow in the Washington State Institute for Criminal Justice. Over the last 10 years, he has studied the relationship between technology and criminal justice institutions. During this period, he has studied technology integration and diffusion of a range of technology solutions within police agencies and communities including closed-circuit television, body-worn cameras, crime analysis, social networking, and digital literacy. He is also an educational consultant assisting clients in the public and private sectors on developing public safety, criminal justice, and technology related curriculum and training material.