Module 1 discussion
Based on this week’s readings, why is blood such a unique
fluid to study? How has the history of blood used as an investigative tool been
central to biological evidence collection?
Module 2 discussion
According to Dr. Pacheco (personal communication, April 16,
2010), the Phenolphthalein (or KM) test is so sensitive and specific to blood
that it can be used simply as a confirmation that blood is present. What effect
does this have on using other presumptive tests (such as those discussed in the
course) on crime scene evidence? Using your text and online resources, provide
an argument for or against using KM as a confirmation for blood at the scene.
Module 3 discussion
Based on this week’s readings, bloodstain evidence is very
important in crime scene investigation. Is it possible that phrasing the
discipline as bloodstain analysis instead of bloodstain interpretation would
appear more scientifically rigorous when testifying in a judicial setting? If
not, why? Is there a difference between bloodstain analysis and bloodstain
interpretation?
Module 4 discussion
Read the following scenario. You arrive at the crime scene
of a death investigation. In the field are two homicide detectives, as well as
the EMT unit working on one of the victims. The deceased victim is on the
ground with a reddish-brownish substance on his clothing as well as a whitish fluid
protruding from the mouth. You are asked to process this scene. Do you detect
any biological hazards present? If so, what are they? How would you protect
yourself and any evidence that may be found? For your responses to classmates,
critique their rationale and try to poke holes in their protocol.
Module 5 discussion
What are your thoughts about the value of an autopsy? What
impact does it have on the criminal justice system? How does the core value of
Respect apply to autopsy proceedings? Should an autopsy always be performed?
What is the protocol for autopsy investigations in your state?
Module 6 discussion
As biological evidence most often is recognized by the media
and the public as “DNA,” what would you argue is the most common form of biological
material collected at a crime scene? Since DNA is technically not what is
collected (instead a swab of a fluid such as blood, saliva, sweat, or semen),
how important is the collection process for biological evidence? How does Saint
Leo’s core value of Integrity tie into biological evidence collection?
Module 7 discussion
Where do you see the role of DNA in forensic investigations
heading in the future? Why should DNA continue to be the best standard of
evidence collected at a crime scene? Should DNA (and therefore, bodily fluid
evidence) cancel out all other types of crime scene evidence? Why or why not?
Module 8 discussion
The idea that DNA can either convict or exonerate
individuals based on whether their genetic material was found at a crime scene
has created some controversy. In your opinion, are the methods of collecting
DNA not stringent enough, creating opportunities for overturned convictions of
faulty DNA evidence? Why or why not? Support your position with information
from your text or other resources.
