Introduction to Criminalistics: The Foundation of Forensic Science

Introduction to Criminalistics covers the basics of Criminalistics in a textbook for a one or two semester course, with the intention of preparing the student for a future in forensic science.

The role of the Criminalist is to analyze, compare, identify, and interpret physical evidence in the crime lab. These crime labs, or forensic labs, have two primary functions: identifying evidence and linking the suspect, victim, and crime scene through physical evidence.

This new primer introduces the learner to the structure and organization of the crime lab and to the role of the Criminalist. It features real cases – recent and historic – to illustrate concepts. Colorful pedagogy clearly defines chapter elements and sets this text apart from next best. Topics covered include how to process a crime scene and preserve evidence, the basic principles of firearm examination, latent fingerprints, and rudimentary toxicology, or how to determine the presence or absence of drugs and poisons.

Well organized and methodical, this textbook has the potential to become the standard text for applying techniques of the physical and natural sciences to examining physical evidence.

• Uses real cases – recent and historic – to illustrate concepts
• Colorful pedagogy clearly defines chapter elements and sets this text apart from next best
• Presents the basics of forensic sciences in a one-semester or one-year course
• Offers excellent preparation for professional examinations
• Delivers the latest in laboratory technique while acknowledging the limits of technology

William J. Tilstone has more than 35 years of experience in forensic science in academia, case work in biology and toxicology, executive management, and consultancy work in training and quality systems. Foundation Professorship in Forensic Science at the University of Strathclyde in Scotland. Director of Forensic Science Centre, South Australia. First Executive Director of the National Forensic Science Technology Center, Largo, FL.

Catherine Woytowicz teaches in the Department of Chemistry, the Honors Program, and the Elliott School of International Affairs at The George Washington University. She also teaches at Georgetown University in the School of Medicine.