Action–reaction? Forensic evidence analysis and forensic awareness in sexual homicide

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the role of forensic evidence in criminal investigations, and on how offenders reacted and adapted proper forensic awareness in cases of sexual homicide. The findings from the studies are informative as they show that, although our abilities to find and analyze less substantial forms of forensic evidence have increased, unfortunately crime labs have not been able to meet the increased demand for analysis. Forensic awareness is a term that has been used to describe the greater knowledge of law enforcement personnel as well as the public concerning forensic science and forensic evidence. The National Institute of Justice has recently funded several studies to examine the analysis of forensic evidence in criminal investigation. The “Green River” killer was able to elude detection even after a major task force was formed in 1984 consisting of over 50 investigators.