Over The Years, Forensic Science Has Struggled To Keep Up

Over The Years Forensic Science Has Struggled To Keep Up With The Inc

Over the years, Forensic Science has struggled to keep up with the increase in violence along with the increase in technology that has been exploited by criminal elements. Not only has there been a number of scientific tools developed to process crime scenes and enhance the abilities of crime laboratories, but through technology, there has been a number of databases established at a national level. Such databases are accessible to law enforcement agencies throughout the United States. Identify 3 different national databases, and include the following for each: What agency runs the database? What type of data are held in the database? Brief description of how the database supports law enforcement/corrections throughout the country. For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.

Paper For Above instruction

The evolution of forensic science over recent decades has been marked by significant advancements in technology and the establishment of comprehensive national databases, which play a crucial role in supporting law enforcement agencies across the United States. These databases enhance the ability of investigators to solve crimes swiftly and accurately by providing centralized, accessible repositories of critical forensic data. This essay will examine three prominent national forensic databases: the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), and the National Fingerprint File (NFF). Each database's administering agency, data types, and functions in aiding law enforcement efforts will be discussed in detail.

1. Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)

The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) is operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It is a national DNA database that stores genetic profiles from convicted offenders, crime scene evidence, and missing persons. The primary goal of CODIS is to facilitate the linkage of serial crimes, identify suspects through DNA evidence, and locate missing persons. The system enables law enforcement agencies to compare DNA profiles collected at various crime scenes and from different jurisdictions, greatly increasing the chances of connecting crimes and apprehending perpetrators.

CODIS supports law enforcement by providing a standardized platform for DNA analysis, ensuring data interoperability across states and agencies. It has been instrumental in solving cold cases and multiple-offender crimes, thereby enhancing public safety. The database's expansive reach facilitates coordination among local, state, and federal agencies, leading to more efficient investigations and prosecutions.

2. National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN)

The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) is managed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This database contains ballistic imaging data, including markings made on bullets and cartridge casings recovered from crime scenes or used in crimes. These ballistic prints are generated via a process called ballistics imaging, which captures unique toolmarks that can link bullets and casings to specific firearms.

NIBIN supports law enforcement by enabling firearms comparisons across jurisdictional boundaries. When ballistic evidence is entered into NIBIN, often through photographic imaging, investigators can rapidly determine whether a firearm has been used in multiple crimes. This capability aids in identifying serial firearm-related crimes and suspect firearms, thus streamlining investigations and enhancing crime-solving efficiency nationally.

3. National Fingerprint File (NFF)

The National Fingerprint File (NFF) is also overseen by the FBI. It contains fingerprint records from individuals who have been arrested, convicted, or are otherwise of investigative interest. The NFF is part of the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), which allows for quick fingerprint comparison and identification.

The NFF supports law enforcement by providing rapid identification of individuals involved in criminal activities, whether at arrest or through investigative leads. Its comprehensive fingerprint database accelerates suspect identification, prevents wrongful arrests, and verifies identities in various law enforcement contexts. The NFF contributes to nationwide criminal justice coordination by ensuring consistent and reliable fingerprint matching across jurisdictions.

Conclusion

National forensic databases such as CODIS, NIBIN, and the NFF have become indispensable tools for law enforcement agencies in the United States. They facilitate timely and accurate criminal investigations, bridging jurisdictional gaps and accelerating the identification process. These databases exemplify the integration of science and technology in modern law enforcement, ultimately enhancing public safety and justice.

References

  • Butler, J. M. (2015). Forensic DNA Typing: Biology, Technology, and Genetics of Scientific Evidence. Academic Press.
  • FBI. (2020). The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Retrieved from https://www.fbi.gov/services/laboratory/biometric-analysis/codis
  • ATF. (2019). About NIBIN. Retrieved from https://www.atf.gov/our-programs/national-ballistic-information-network
  • FBI. (2018). Next Generation Identification (NGI) and the National Fingerprint File. Retrieved from https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/fingerprints-and-other-biometrics/ngi
  • Rudin, C. (2018). Use of Forensic Databases in Criminal Investigations. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 63(4), 1302-1309.
  • National Research Council. (2009). Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward. The National Academies Press.
  • Lynn, S. (2014). Law Enforcement and Forensic Databases: Advantages and Limitations. Forensic Science Review, 26(2), 67-75.
  • Pollack, J. M., & Mumford, D. S. (2017). Advances in DNA Typing Technologies. Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics, 18, 377–393.
  • Saferstein, R. (2015). Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science. Pearson.
  • Wells, A. D. (2016). The Role of Forensic Databases in Contemporary Law Enforcement. Journal of Criminal Justice, 45, 12-20.

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