Forensic Science

Requirements
Presented by:
Mulayam Rana
Abhigyan
Santosh
Himanshi
Mahindra
Pravir
Allhagie
Virat
Introduction to
Forensic Science
 Lets moves into the fundamental
aspects of forensic science, exploring
its definition, significance, and various
methodologies involved in crime
investigation.
01
Definition
Overview of
forensic science
Forensic science is the application of scientific
principles and techniques to investigate and solve
crimes. It encompasses various disciplines such as
biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering to
analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. The
goal is to provide factual data that can be used in
legal proceedings.
Importance in criminal justice
Forensic science plays a critical role in the criminal
justice system by ensuring the integrity of
investigations and judicial processes. It helps law
enforcement agencies connect suspects to crimes,
corroborate testimonies, and establish timelines
through scientific evidence. The field also
enhances the reliability of evidence presented in
court, ultimately contributing to the pursuit of
justice.
Historical context
The origins of forensic science date back to
ancient civilizations where evidence such as
fingerprints and dental records were utilized in
legal contexts. In the 19th century, significant
advancements emerged with the work of pioneers
like Hans Gross, who laid the foundation for
criminalistics, and Alphonse Bertillon, who
developed a system of measuring physical
characteristics for identification. The establishment
of anthropology as a forensic science in the late
1800s further solidified the importance of scientific
methods in solving crimes.
02
Techniques
Crime scene
investigation
Crime scene investigation involves a systematic approach to
securing and examining the area where a crime has occurred. This
process includes documenting the scene through photographs and
sketches, collecting evidence like fingerprints, blood samples, and
trace materials, and ensuring that the scene is preserved to maintain
the integrity of the evidence. Trained professionals work meticulously
to gather data that can hold significant value in reconstructing the
events leading to the crime.
Lab analysis
methods
Laboratories utilize sophisticated techniques to analyze
evidence collected from crime scenes. Methods such as DNA
analysis, toxicology, ballistics, and fingerprint analysis are
commonly employed. The role of forensic experts in
interpreting lab results is crucial, as their findings can help
establish connections between the crime scene, the suspects,
and potential victims. Advanced technologies, including mass
spectrometry and gas chromatography, enhance the accuracy
and efficiency of forensic analysis.
Evidence collection procedures
Effective evidence collection is essential for
successful forensic investigation. Procedures include
the careful handling and packaging of different types
of evidence to prevent contamination or degradation.
Protocols must be followed to ensure the chain of
custody is maintained, which documents every
individual who handles the evidence from collection to
court presentation. Proper techniques in securing
DNA, biological samples, and physical evidence
ensure that they can withstand scrutiny in judicial
proceedings.
 Types of Evidence in
Forensic Science
An Overview of Key Evidence Categories Used in Criminal Investigations
What is Evidence?
Any information or object that helps solve a crime
Supports investigation, arrests, and convictions Must be
collected, preserved, and analyzed correctly
Physical Evidence
Detection Methods:
Fingerprint lifting (dusting, fuming) Tool
Tangible objects found at the crime scene mark analysis Microscopic inspection DNA
Examples: weapons, fingerprints, tool testing from surface traces
marks, glass, soil Often analyzed in labs for
matches or traces

Detection Methods: DNA Profiling (PCR, STR

analysis) Blood Grouping & Serology
Biological Evidence Fluorescent Stains (e.g., Luminol for blood)
Originates from living organisms Includes: blood, saliva, Microscopic Analysis
semen, hair, skin cells Used for DNA analysis and
identity confirmation
 Chemical & Toxicological
Evidence
Blood, urine, or saliva samples (from victims or suspects)
Stomach contents (in suspected poisonings) Tissues and
organs (for post-mortem analysis) Powders, pills, liquids
found at a crime scene Drink or food suspected of being
tampered with

Detection Methods:
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
Immunoassays, ELISA Atomic Absorption
Spectroscopy (AAS) Breathalyzer for alcohol (Detailed
earlier)
Ballistics (Firearms) Evidence

Linked to the use of firearms Includes

bullets, casings, gunshot residue Used
to match weapons to crimes

Detection Methods:
Comparison Microscopy (rifling marks)
Ballistics Gel Testing Gunshot Residue (GSR)
Analysis using SEM Striation Pattern Matching
Digital Evidence
Found in electronic devices Includes emails, chats, GPS
data, social media activity Critical in cybercrimes and
modern investigations

Impression & Document Evidence Detection Methods:

Shoe prints, bite marks, tire tracks, tool
marks Forged typewriting Useful in
burglary, fraud, and violent crimes Handwriting analysis Ink comparison
via chromatography ESDA (for
documents, handwriting, indented writing) UV light for forgery
detection
Trace Evidence Impression Evidence
Examples: Examples: Shoeprints
Fibers ,soil, tire marks tool
paint glass impressions

Detection Methods: Detection Methods:

Polarized light microscopy FTIR & Casting (dental stone, plaster)
Raman spectroscopy Density & Electrostatic dust print lifting
refractive index tests (glass) Digital 3D scanning Tool mark
Pyrolysis-GC (paints) comparison databases
Unveiling the Branches of
Forensic Science
Forensic Pathology: Unraveling the Cause of Death
Forensic pathology is the branch of forensic science focused on determining the cause and manner of death in cases of suspicious or
unexplained fatalities. Forensic pathologists employ a variety of techniques, including autopsies, toxicology analysis, and microscopic
examination, to uncover the circumstances surrounding a person's death.

By meticulously analyzing wounds, injuries, and other physical evidence, forensic pathologists can provide critical insights into the events
leading up to a person's demise. For example, analyzing wounds to determine the weapon used in a homicide can be crucial in identifying the
perpetrator and reconstructing the crime scene.

Autopsies Toxicology Wound analysis

Detailed examination of the body to Identifying drugs and poisons in the Determining the type of weapon
determine cause of death body used
Forensic Toxicology: Identifying Poisons
and Drugs
Forensic toxicology plays a crucial role in identifying and analyzing drugs and poisons present in the
body. Forensic toxicologists conduct chemical analyses of blood, urine, and tissues to determine the
presence and concentration of various substances.

The role of forensic toxicology extends to determining the contribution of substances in causing
death or impairment. Detecting the presence of cyanide in a victim's body, for instance, can provide
critical evidence in a poisoning investigation.

Blood Analysis

Urine Analysis

Tissue analysis
Forensic Anthropology: Analyzing Skeletal Rem ains
Forensic anthropology focuses on the analysis of human skeletal remains to identify individuals and determine the cause and circumstances of
death. Forensic anthropologists utilize techniques from osteology, archaeology, and forensic taphonomy to gather valuable information from
bones.

Estimating age, sex, and ancestry from bones found at a crime scene is a common task for forensic anthropologists, providing crucial leads in
identifying the deceased and reconstructing events.

Osteology Archaeology Forensic taphonom y

Study of bone structure and identification. Excavation and recovery of skeletal Study of decomposition processes.
remains.
Forensic Entom ology: Insects as Silent Witnesses
Forensic entomology is the study of insects to estimate the time of death and provide valuable information in death investigations. Forensic
entomologists analyze insect life cycles and succession patterns to determine the postmortem interval (PMI), or time elapsed since death.

Analyzing blowfly larvae on a body to estimate the time since death is a classic example of how forensic entomology aids in criminal investigations.
Insects colonize a decomposing body in a predictable sequence.

Egg S tage
Laid on the body

Larval S tage
Feeding and growing

Adult S tage
Flying and reproducing
Forensic Psychology: Understanding the Criminal Mind
Forensic psychology applies psychological principles and techniques to legal issues, including criminal investigations, court proceedings, and corrections.
Forensic psychologists conduct psychological assessments, develop offender profiles, and analyze criminal behavior to provide insights into the motivations
and actions of offenders.

Evaluating a defendant's mental state at the time of a crime is a crucial role of forensic psychologists, helping to determine criminal responsibility and inform
sentencing decisions.

Risk Assessment
1 Evaluating future dangerousness

Competency
2 Assessing ability to stand trial

Profiling
3 Developing offender characteristics
Digital Forensics: Uncovering Cyber Crimes
Digital forensics focuses on the recovery and analysis of digital evidence from computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices. Digital forensic investigators employ
data recovery techniques, network analysis, and malware analysis to uncover evidence of cybercrimes and electronic fraud.

Recovering deleted files from a computer used in a fraud scheme is a common task for digital forensic experts, helping to build a case against perpetrators.

N etwork Analysis
2 Tracking network activity

Data Recovery 1
Retrieving lost files

Malware Analysis
Identifying malicious software
3
 Chromatography Techniques in Forensics
The role of chromatography in crime investigations

Chromatography is essential in forensic science.

Two main types: gas and liquid chromatography.
Gas chromatography analyzes volatile substances.
Detection Cop oDility Increase t °/ j

Liquid chromatography handles non-volatile compounds.

Gas 30
Recent advancements increase detection sensitivity.
Liquid 30

Liquid 36

Type of Chromatography
Paint Analysis in Crime Scene Investigation
Understanding the Role of Paint in Forensics

Point S ample C h e mi cal D at a I m p a c t of Case Study

Collection Analysis Comparison Advanced Example
Collect paint samples Techniques Match paint samples Techniques Quick identification of
from victims or crime Use FTIR and PyGC to known vehicle Incorporating suspects led to arrest
scenes for analysis. for comparing paint makes and models. advanced techniques within 72 hours.
properties to improved analysis
standards. accuracy by 40%.
Forensic Drug Testing Techniques Overview
Exploring techniques for drug identification

¥ GC-MS is the gold standard with 98% accuracy.

o Recent advancements include portable testing devices.

o AI is enhancing testing accuracy in labs.

Gas
Chromatography-
■ 54.4J% Mass
Spectrometry
(GC-MS)
Gas
Chromatography-
■ 45.59% Mass
Spectrometry
(GC-MS)
 Laboratory Safety Protocols Overview
Importance of Safety Protocols 0 Advanced Safety Technologies
Essential for protecting personnel and ensuring accurate forensic results. Automated ventilation and real-time monitoring enhance laboratory safety.

Chemical Handling 0 Chemical Labeling and Storage

Forensic labs deal with hazardous chemicals; proper handling is critical. Proper labeling and storage of chemicals prevent accidents and exposure.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 0 Incident Reduction Statistics

Use of gloves, goggles, and masks is mandatory to minimize exposure risks. Labs with strict safety protocols report a 25% reduction in chemical
exposure incidents.

Emergency Protocols
Eyewash stations and safety showers must be accessible for emergencies. 0 Adopting to Evolving Science
Forensic labs are continuously updating safety measures to keep pace with
advancements.
Training on Safety Procedures
Regular staff training ensures awareness of potential risks and safety
measures. 0 Maintaining Forensic Integrity
Safety measures are vital for the integrity of forensic analysis and research.
 Evolution of Forensic Techniques

Edmond Locard established the first police crime

laboratory in France.

Late 19th Century Establishment of Police Crime Lab

Introduction of Fingerprinting 1910 DNA Profiling Introduced

Fingerprinting was first systematically used, DNA profiling emerged, significantly improving the
revolutionizing identity verification. accuracy of criminal investigations.
 Insights from Forensic Science Cases
Exploring real-world impacts of forensic investigations

• Case studies highlight practical applications • Forensic science delivers justice

•Forensic science techniques are illustrated through real cases, showing their These case studies demonstrate how forensic methods are crucial in bringing
effectiveness in investigations. justice to victims and families.

• Continuous improvement in methodologies

• Breakthrough in cold case murder
Ongoing advancements in forensic science are essential for effective crime
•DNA analysis solved a 20-year-old murder case, identifying the suspect and leading
solving and justice delivery.
to a conviction.

• Importance of advanced DNA profiling

•Reanalyzing old evidence with new DNA techniques can lead to significant
breakthroughs in unresolved cases.

• Point analysis in hit-and-run

•Matching paint chips from a victim to a vehicle helped identify the driver in a hit-and-
run incident.
 Global Implications of Forensic Science

Strengths Weaknesses

Forensic science enhances criminal justice, High costs associated with implementing
leading to increased conviction rates and advanced forensic techniques can limit
exonerations of the wrongfully convicted, thus accessibility for some countries, potentially
promoting trust in legal systems. leading to inequalities in justice.

Opportunities Threats
Investing in forensic science can reduce violent The rise of transnational crime challenges forensic
crime rates by up to 30%, providing significant capabilities, requiring continuous adaptation and
public safety benefits and attracting international international cooperation to combat effectively.
collaboration.
 Forensic Technology Advancements in 2025

0
Automated DNA Analysis Portable Drug Testing Devices AI in Forensic Analysis Next-Generation Sequencing
Automated systems streamline DNA Portable devices enable real-time drug AI tools uncover patterns in forensic New sequencing techniques provide
evidence collection, improving efficiency. testing at crime scenes, enhancing data, revealing hidden connections. detailed DNA profiles from complex
response. samples.

3D Scanning Technologies Virtual Reality Integration Improved Evidence Accuracy Expedited Investigative Processes
3D scanning aids in accurate crime scene Virtual reality allows immersive crime Technological advancements increase the Faster forensic analysis accelerates
reconstruction, improving evidence scene exploration, enhancing investigator precision of forensic evidence analysis. investigations, aiding law
understanding. training. enforcement efforts.
Key Challenges in Forensic Science
Understanding the Hurdles in Forensic Analysis

Contamination and Degradation of Evidence

Contamination can compromise the integrity of forensic
analysis, leading to unreliable results.
Inadequate Training and Resources
Limited resources hinder accurate analysis, affecting forensic
laboratory effectiveness in some regions.
Complexity of Digital Evidence
Emerging technologies in forensic science require continuous
skill updates for professionals.
Feeling Unprepared for New Technologies
A 2025 survey showed that 40% of forensic scientists felt
unprepared for new technologies.
Ethical Concerns in Forensic Evidence
Increasing focus on privacy and consent issues in the use of
forensic evidence.
 Forensic medicine
Forensic Medicine is the branch of medicine that applies medical knowledge to legal
issues. It deals with examining victims (alive or deceased) to help solve crimes
and assist the justice system.

Role in Legal System:

1. Expert Testimony
2. Evidence for Courts
3. Cause of Death
4. Support for Law
Enforcement
Main Functions of Forensic Medicine

Area Description
Medico-legal Autopsy Performed to determine cause and manner of death (natural,
accidental, suicidal, homicidal.
Injury Analysis Examination of wounds to determine type, weapon, time, and
manner of infliction.

Toxicology Identifies presence of drugs, alcohol, poisons in the body.

Collection of biological samples (e.g., semen, hair) and
documentation of injuries in victims.
Sexual Assault Cases Collection of biological samples (e.g., semen, hair) and documentation
of injuries in victims.

Age Estimation Uses physical, dental, and radiological exams to estimate age of a
person, often in legal identity cases.
 Forensic Pathology
Forensic pathology is a branch of pathology that focuses on determining the cause of death by
examining a corpse, typically during a post-mortem examination (autopsy). It's a key part of
forensic science and plays a crucial role in criminal investigations.

Types of Pathology:
1.Medico-Legal Autopsy Pathology 6.Forensic Anthropology

2.Clinical Forensic Medicine 7.Forensic Serology

3.Forensic Neuropathology 8.Forensic Radiology

4.Forensic Odontology 9.Forensic Entomology

5. Forensic Toxicology 10.Forensic Histopathology
 Comparison Of Medicine Vs Pathology In Forensics

Medicine in Forensics refers to the use of Pathology in Forensics, on the other hand, is
medical knowledge to deal with legal issues. It more about examining tissues, cells, and fluids
focuses on examining living or dead individuals to understand how a disease or injury affected
to find out how injuries happened, what the body. Forensic pathology mainly deals with
caused a death, or whether a crime was performing autopsies to determine the exact
committed. Forensic medicine deals with injury cause and manner of death, especially in
analysis, age estimation, mental health suspicious or unnatural deaths. It is more lab-
assessments, and examination of victims in based and technical, involving microscopic
cases like assault or sexual abuse. It is more examination, toxicology, and injury pattern
clinical and involves direct interaction with analysis. Forensic pathologists play a key role in
patients or bodies, along with preparing murder investigations and court trials by giving
medico-legal reports and giving expert opinions scientific findings about how a person died.
in court.
 Forensic medicine and pathology
Aspect Forensic Medicine Forensic Pathology

Branch of medicine dealing with the focusing on determining cause of death via
Definition application of medical knowledge to legal autopsy.
issues.
Scope includes injury assessment, sexual assault mainly concerned with post-mortem examinations
cases, toxicology, age estimation, etc. and determining cause/manner of death.
Main Focus Living and deceased individuals in legal Primarily deceased individuals.
contexts.
Key Procedures Physical examination, injury documentation, Autopsies, histological exams, toxicology testing,
forensic toxicology, giving legal opinions. scene correlation.
Role in Legal System Expert witness in civil and criminal cases; Expert witness, especially in cases involving
assess living victims and suspects. suspicious or unexplained deaths.
Professionals Involved Forensic physicians, medico-legal experts. Forensic pathologists.

Common Cases Assaults, rapes, poisonings, age disputes, Homicides, suicides, accidental deaths,
fitness to stand trial. sudden/unexpected deaths.
Legal Aspects in Forensic
Science
 Introduction
Forensic science helps solve crimes by using science to find facts and
evidence. But to make sure this evidence is used fairly in court, there are
certain legal rules that must be followed.
The legal aspects of forensic science include how evidence is collected, how it is

handled, and how it is presented in court. These rules make sure the
evidence is real, reliable, and has not been changed or misused.
• Laws also protect people's rights, such as getting permission before taking
DNA or checking someone's phone. Forensic experts must follow legal
rules to make sure justice is done, and innocent people are not wrongly
pun ished .
LegealAspects in ForesenicScience

• Governed by rules of evidence in different countries. Legal criteria

• ensure that only scientifically valid, relevant, and
properly handled forensic evidence is accepted in court.
• Section 45 –Indian Evidence Act
Accepts expert opinions in matters like fingerprinting, handwriting, medical, etc.
 Chain of
Custody
• Legally ensures integrity of the evidence. A proper chain proves that
• evidence was not tampered with,
substituted, or contaminated.
• Each person who handled the evidence must be documented with
time and reason.
• Importance:
• Protects against legal challenges. A broken chaincan lead
• to exclusion of evidence in court.
 Expert Testimony in
Court

•Forensic experts must be qualified, impartial, and fact-based.

• They assist the judge/jury in understanding technical or scientific
evidence.
In India:
Section 45 IEA authorizes expert opinion as relevant evidence.
Courts assess:
•Expert’s credentials
• Scientific reliability of methods used
• Consistency of findings
Legal Limitations & Privacy Issues
Laws restrict overreach in forensic procedures:
• DNA profiling may require a court order or consent. Digital forensics must
comply with privacy laws (e.g., accessing someone’s phone). Collection of
bodily samples (blood, semen, etc.) must be done with due procedure.

• Relevant Indian Law:

• CrPC Section 53 & 54–Medical exams of the accused with consent or court
order.
• Information Technology Act, 2000–Covers digital evidence,
cybercrime investigations.
Legal Acts Relevant to Forensic Science
International Legal Standards & Ethics
•UN Guidelines: Encourage standard procedures for forensic

investigation. INTERPOL Forensic Databases: Used for cross-border

• cooperation.
•Forensic Ethics Codes: Prohibit bias, fraud, and improper handling.
 conclusion

Forensic science must always align with legal procedures.

Experts must understand the legal value and limits of their work
Only scientifically reliable and legally obtained evidence can lead
to true justice.
 What is Cyber Forensics?

Cyber forensics involves digital evidence collection.

It uses investigative techniques for electronic devices.
Crucial for various investigations. This includes criminal, civil, and corporate cases. The
process recovers, examines, and analyzes digital data. This branch of forensic science
focuses on identifying , preserving , analyzing and presenting digital evidence. This is
crucial in modern day cybercrime investigations as it supports law enforcement and
national security
 Historical Evolution of Cyber Forensics
As computers became more widespread, law enforcement began encountering digital evidence during investigations. Investigations
were largely manual. Data was recovered using basic tools, with limited understanding of digital storage. The forensic agencies were
the first to use basic digital forensics for espionage and national security. With the growth of the internet, new crimes like hacking ,
online fraud and software piracy emerged, smart phones and laptops became common, increasing the scope of forensic investigations
 Types of Digital Evidence

• Computer files: Includes documents (like Word, PDF ,Excell, etc.) that may contain relevant data

• Mobile device data and communications: Includes the sent, received, and even deleted emails or messages also tracing communication signal

• Cloud storage and network logs: Shows usser activity, login attempts and security eventswhich is crucial for tracking intrusions
• Social media and online activity records: Connections on social media platforms ( like posts and messages) are useful for timelines and associatio

• Removable Media: Includes USB drives , memory cards and external hard drives which often stores or transfer illicit data discreetly
 Forensic Investigation Methodology

The Forensic Investigation Methodology is a structured approach used to ensure that digital evidence is collected, analyzed, and
reported in a legal, ethical, and systematic manner. Here's a detailed breakdown of the standard phases involved:
1. Identification (Recognize potential sources of digital evidence)
2. Preservation (Protect data from tampering or loss)
3. Collection (Gather all potential digital evidence legally and safely)
4. Examination (Discover hidden, deleted, or suspicious data)
5. Analysis ( Reconstruct events and understand what happened)
6. Documentation (Maintain detailed records of the entire investigation)
7. Reporting ( Present findings clearly and legally)
8. Presentation & Testimony (if required) : (Share findings with relevant parties)
Technological Tools in Cyber Forensics
• Specialized forensic software suites
• Hardware write blockers prevent data alteration
• Advanced data recovery tools retrieve lost information
• Machine learning analysis platforms automate tasks
• Blockchain forensic technologies track digital assets
 CASE STUDY
Assassination of Rajiv Gandhi
 DNA Fingerprinting in Indian Forensic
Investigations
• Assassination of Rajiv Gandhi
Background:
Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, was assassinated on May 21,
1991, in Tamil Nadu, India. The assassination was carried out by a
suicide bomber, identified as a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE),

a militant group from Sri Lanka. The bombing resulted in the

death of Rajiv Gandhi, as well as several others, and left num0erous people severely
injured
•The investigation into his assassination was complex, with many leads
pointing to various individuals and groups. However, one of the most
significant breakthroughs in the case came from the use of DNA
fingerprinting.
Role of DNA Fingerprinting in the Investigation:
DNA fingerprinting, or DNA profiling, is a powerful forensic technique used

to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. It was pivotal

in linking evidence from the scene of the assassination to the perpetrators.
1. Identification of the Bomber's Remains:
•The suicide bomber who killed Rajiv Gandhi was immediately obliterated in
the blast, leaving only remains, including body parts that were in pieces.
•To identify the individual responsible for the bombing, investigators needed to
analyze the remains to obtain genetic material, even though there was

•DNA fingerprinting allowed forensic experts to extract viable DNA from the
severe damage to the body tissue and bodily fluids found at the scene.
2. Linking the Bomber to the LTTE:
•The DNA obtained from the remains was compared to known DNA samples from the LTTE suspects
who were being investigated in connection with the assassination.
•The analysis helped establish the identity of the bomber as a member of the LTTE and provided crucial
evidence in linking the group to the assassination.
3. Establishing Relationships and Verifying Suspects: •In the aftermath of the bombing, several
people were arrested in connection with the assassination. •DNA fingerprinting was used to verify their
involvement. •One of the most important uses of DNA in this case was the verification of relationships
between the
suspects and those who were involved in the planning of the assassination.
•The forensic evidence helped link various individuals to the crime scene and provided clarity in the
ongoing investigation.
4. Exonerating the Innocent: •DNA fingerprinting also played a
significant role in exonerating
individuals who were wrongly suspected of being involved in the
assassination. By providing irrefutable evidence, investigators could
focus their efforts on the real culprits, avoiding wrongful arrests.
Conclusion:
The assassination of Rajiv Gandhi marked a significant turning point in Indian forensic investigations,
especially in the use of DNA fingerprinting as a tool for identifying perpetrators and gathering evidence. The
forensic breakthrough played a crucial role in identifying the bomber and linking the LTTE to the crime,
ultimately aiding in the prosecution of those responsible for the assassination.
DNA fingerprinting has since become an essential tool in Indian forensic science,
helping solve high-profile criminal cases and contributing to a more reliable and scientific approach to law
enforcement and justice.
Thankyou

any questions ? ~/ No.