Textile damage science—Is it a reliable science?

Abstract

AbstractForensic science has long been used in criminal investigations and the justice system. The standards applied to contemporary forensic practice have changed dramatically in the past decade. Presented here is a modern‐day review of textile damage science in the context of these changing standards, and how they have challenged the presentation of scientific evidence. The prevalence of textile damage examinations is fluctuating in the current forensic environment. Some laboratories are conducting more examinations than ever, and other laboratories are no longer able to conduct examinations due to limitations in resourcing or case numbers. This dynamic landscape will no doubt continue as the occurrence of crime fluctuates throughout and beyond the pandemic affecting the world.This article is categorized under: Crime Scene Investigation > Crime Scene Reconstruction Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Trace Evidence Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative