2024 UK Fingermark Symposium – Review

2024 UK Fingermark Symposium

Last week I had  another day out of the office/classroom.  This time it was for the UK Fingermark Symposium created and organised by Paul Butler from ForenteQ Limited and John Hicks from West Technology Forensics. There was a brilliant range of guest speakers, many are UK’s leading experts; Roberto King spoke on Innovation and the…

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Crime Scene Managers: Why are they so important?

FTP image entitled Crime Scene Managers: Why are they so important?

Crime Scene Managers (CSM) plays a pivotal role in overseeing all aspects of a crime scene investigation, from the preservation of evidence to the coordination of personnel and resources. Their expertise, leadership and attention to detail are essential for ensuring that investigations are conducted thoroughly, accurately.  In accordance with established protocols and procedures To read…

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Dusting for Clues: A New Frontier in Crime Scene Forensics

Dusting for Clues image

The secret hidden in dust: Assessing the potential to use biological and chemical properties of the airborne fraction of soil for provenance assignment and forensic casework In the realm of crime scene investigation, DNA evidence has long been a game-changer, providing a powerful tool for identifying perpetrators and exonerating the innocent. However, the traditional methods…

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Why are Cameras Changing to Mirrorless?

Why are cameras changing to mirrorless

Why are cameras changing to mirrorless? There are at least six reasons why camera manufacturers are no longer making Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras and are moving across to only making mirrorless cameras. Before we get to the six points it’s probably worth just talking about what an SLR camera is and why it’s…

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Remote Transmission of Fingerprints

LiftSP4 Screen

In the ever-evolving landscape of crime scene investigation, technological advancements continue to reshape the way law enforcement agencies gather and process critical evidence. Among these innovations, the remote transmission of fingerprints from crime scenes to fingerprint bureaux stands out as a game-changer. Our recent visit to AGX in Hook, Hampshire shed light on this groundbreaking…

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Unleashing the Power of Forensic Training: Introducing the Initial CSI Course

Images of CSI's training on their initial CSI Course

Forensic science plays a vital role in modern crime investigations, and the demand for highly skilled forensic professionals continues to grow.  Recognising the need to equip UK police forces with well-trained staff, the Forensic Training Partnership has joined forces with Cranfield Forensic Institute to deliver a groundbreaking six-week Initial CSI course.  This comprehensive programme offers…

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Guest blog: Turning the tide of plastic waste in CSI

Plastics and rubber items used by crime scene investigators. image copyright: Becci Henderson

In this guest blog post we invite Sussex CSI Becci Henderson, who is working towards a PhD at Portsmouth University on the subject of Plastic Waste in the CSI Environment. I have been a Crime Scene Investigator for 23 years. Over the course of my career, particularly over the past decade, I have noticed a…

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The Crucial Role of ISO 17020 in Crime Scene Investigation

Police crime scene DO NOT CROSS tape

Introduction: In the field of crime scene investigation, accuracy, reliability and adherence to standardised procedures are paramount. To ensure consistency and quality in forensic investigations, professionals rely on recognised standards like the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) 17020. This accreditation provides a framework that ensures crime scene investigators (CSIs) operate with high levels of competence…

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Forensic Training in the UK

A crime scene investigator examining a piece of glass

Forensic science is an essential component of criminal investigations, helping to gather evidence, identify suspects and convict criminals. In the United Kingdom, forensic training is a crucial aspect of the criminal justice system, as it provides forensic practitioners with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their work effectively. Forensic training in the UK…

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