Researchers and forensic scientists have developed a method that can identify a person from as little as 1 centimeter of a single strand of hair. If this new method takes off, it could revolutionize forensic science, and make criminal investigators much faster and more effective. This method of identification would also prevent innocent people from being accused of and prosecuted…
The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) teamed up with Israeli Police to invent a new forensics technology. The 3D-Hawk is a high-def video camera that can turn any crime or accident scene into a 3D model. This new development will help police clear scenes faster, shortened the time on a scene, gather more visual evidence,…
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the newest trend in the legal profession. What are essentially robot lawyers are using analytics technology, algorithms, and machine learning to complete tasks often performed by entry-level lawyers. The legal tech company InCloudCounsel has developed AI tools for use in the legal profession.These tools are more inline with apps on your phone and are not actual…
As technology and society have evolved, law enforcement has had to adapt to both changing crime and technology trends. These updated technologies are used in officer accountability, solving and investigating crimes, and in officer safety. From the most basic technology like a cellphone to expensive high-tech gear, law enforcement has been able to implement them all into public safety for…
Digital evidence gathered from phones, computers, and other electronic devices is vital to many criminal investigations in the modern age. To fully gather and use this evidence in court and as evidence, law enforcement agencies need the proper equipment. Many times, this equipment is expensive, not readily available for use when needed, and do not fit into government department’s budgets.…
A new method of DNA analysis has helped identify multiple victims in cold cases nationwide. The lab at University of California, Santa Cruz has been conducted a new type of DNA tests with hair. Officials in New Hampshire contacted the scientists who were able to use the new test help identify victims in the cold case murders at Bear Brook…
Inconsistent data isn’t just a problem in the criminal justice system-it could make the difference between someone going free or serving time regardless of guilt. The California state legislature has passed a bill, AB-1331, that would improve data handling for criminal justice. The measure would set clear data collection and reporting standards for both the courts and law enforcement, such…
When David Hall was eight-years-old, he was placed into the foster care system. He had suffered from abuse at the hands of his mother and was luckily removed from the situation. During his tenure in foster care, Hall never felt he had an advocate. Now, as an adult, he hopes to change that. He didn’t realize until years later that the…
