Lecture Notes: Forensic Science in Criminal Investigations

Introduction to Forensic Science Techniques

• Trace Evidence: Criminals often leave behind trace evidence at crime scenes.
• Scientific Tools Used:
  • Aurora pink powder
  • Cyanoacrylate fumes
  • Computer databases

Case Study: Audrey Nichols Murder

Incident Details

• Date & Time: 4 a.m., October morning
• Location: Lansing, Michigan
• Victim: Audrey Nichols, a 67-year-old retired Michigan State Police employee.
• Crime Description:
  • House break-in
  • Nichols was shot in the head at close range with a .32 caliber bullet.
  • Audrey’s purse was missing, robbery suspected.

Initial Police Response

• Police arrived within minutes of Audrey’s call.
• Evidence of a violent break-in was found.

Crime Scene Investigation

• Evidence Collected: Fingerprints, shards of glass, shoe impressions.
• Challenges: No eyewitnesses or clear physical descriptions.

Forensic Techniques Employed

• Aurora Pink Powder: Used on linoleum floor to identify shoe impressions.
• Super Glue Fumes: Used to develop a permanent image of shoe print on glass.
• Shoe Database (SoleMate): Used to identify shoe brand (Spalding tennis shoe).

Investigation Breakthroughs

Initial Suspect: Kent Embry

• Arrested for a nearby burglary wearing Spalding tennis shoes.
• Shoes did not match forensic evidence from the crime scene.

New Lead: Prisoner Informant

• Carl Headley, a prisoner, provided details about Audrey’s murder.
• Information led to suspect John Skinner.

Final Forensic Analysis

• Suspect: John Skinner
• Evidence: Matching shoe prints found in Skinner’s possession.
• Outcome: Skinner confessed after forensic evidence presented.

Conclusion

• Forensic Science Impact: Critical in solving the case and securing a conviction.
• Lessons learned:
  • The importance of forensic science in criminal investigations.
  • Advanced technologies can effectively solve cases that seem initially unsolvable.
  • Trace evidence, while small, can be the key to solving crimes.