Forensic Books

Forensic imaging with multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and other cross-sectional imaging modalities is a rapidly evolving field. Understanding the pathological basis of disease and death is fundamental to the interpretation of radiologic images. Forming a bridge between these distinct disciplines, Essentials of Forensic Imaging: A Text-Atlas brings the long tradition of radiologic pathologic correlation to forensic radiology and autopsy. > More

Designed as an on-scene reference for processing death scenes, this field guide walks readers through the steps of death investigations. The text begins with the initial notification of a death and continues through the processing of the scene and the body. It covers the investigator’s role at an autopsy and analyzes the scene indicators of evidence. Mechanism of injury, wound, and disease dynamics are covered in order to aid in determining the cause and manner of death. A separate section provides information on child and infant deaths. The book is presented in an outline format for ease of reference and understanding. > More

The first pieces of evidence viewed by jurors are oftentimes the photographs recorded by the crime scene investigator. Professional and accurate photographic documentation is critical for creating lasting first impressions in the minds of a jury. Solving a range of photographic dilemmas and challenges, Advanced Crime Scene Photography assists investigators in creating photographic evidence that is engaging, interesting, and informative, giving them greater credibility when testifying in court. > More

Nearly 185,000 homicides since 1980 remain unsolved, yet with limited staff and resources, it is no surprise that law enforcement units place the bulk of their efforts on current cases where victims’ family members and the media demand answers. Cold Cases: An Evaluation Model with Followup Strategies for Investigators provides a comprehensive roadmap for digging those cold cases out of the file room and getting them resolved. Practical and concise, the book is an invaluable tool for police officers and detectives attempting to solve crimes that would otherwise be forgotten. > More

In the wake of the Daubert ruling, the use of forensic toolmark evidence in court has been problematic, in that the conclusions of forensic scientists as to toolmark origin often lack scientifically sound statistical proof. In the Color Atlas of Forensic Toolmark Identification, noted forensic expert Nicholas Petraco helps move toolmark examination from an art to a science. The first part of the book contains an anthology of tried and true methods, procedures, and traditional techniques used by practitioners of this discipline for over a century. It contains rationales and methodologies for casework, discussion of the use of new materials and techniques for preparation of known standards, and the application of various methods of statistical proof to further establish toolmark examination as a sound scientific endeavor. The second section contains a compilation of commonly used hand tools and the marks they typically produce. > More

As forensic science continues to play a wider role in the investigation of crimes and apprehension of criminals, those without crime scene or crime lab training must now become familiar with the techniques and language of the forensic scientist. Avoiding the complicated science and graphic violence typical of most forensic references, this book is written specifically for those without forensic science experience. While it provides a professional reference for those not steeped in the details of forensic science, the wealth of instructor material available for teachers and its pedagogical approach make this an ideal textbook for high school and introductory level courses. > More

As an introductory guide, the goal of this book is to provide students of law enforcement, criminalists, members of the justice system, law enforcement professionals, and anyone interested in the field, a starting point in understanding the pivotal relationship between police, the investigator and the scientist, in service of the law. From the first responder called to a death scene to the final analysis in the courtroom, Crime and Measurement outlines the processes, the rules, the protocols, and the principles of what it takes and what it means to measure and solve crime. > More

In Human and Nonhuman Bone Identification: A Color Atlas,Diane L. France, one of the most respected forensic anthropologists in the world, offered a comprehensive handbook of photographs and other information essential for examining skeletal remains and determining species and body parts. Conveniently designed for field use, this compact version of the book presents the major skeletal elements from the same species as the bestselling Atlas. Focusing on the bones most often discovered in field scenarios, the book is divided into two major sections: General Osteology and Major Bones of the Bodies of Different Animals > More

When a crime or other incident takes place, clothing items are often present or left behind, and can become directly involved in the case itself. Items of clothing are thus one of the most common types of exhibit examined in court. They can provide valuable information in cases of violent crimes, such as homicide or rape, as well as in burglary, robbery, arson, and vehicular accidents. > More

Focusing on practical approaches for the experienced investigator, Michael R. Napier, a 27-year veteran of the FBI, presents Behavior, Truth, and Deception: Applying Profiling and Analysis to the Interview Process. This hands-on volume, drawn from years of experience interviewing suspects, reveals the targeted subject interviewing process (TSI). This technique combines all known tactics learned from criminal personality profiling and investigative analysis into an effective strategy for interviewing a suspect. The book describes the skill sets and essential elements that directly contribute to a successful interrogation and outlines an interview plan using these analytical and profiling concepts. > More