Why Is Forensic Science so Important?

JEFF PACHOUD/AFP/Getty Images

Forensic science is important because it aids in establishing the guilt or innocence of potential suspects. Forensic evidence is also useful for linking crimes, which establishes the patterns of crimes and also narrows the number of probable suspects.

Forensic science helps law enforcement officials solve crimes through the collection, preservation and analysis of evidence. For example, if there are no witnesses to a crime, forensic proof is often all prosecutors have to investigate. If human remains have decayed so much that they can no longer be identified, forensic experts study dental work, DNA and skeletal structure to identify a person and determine gender. In most cases, forensic investigators can ascertain the reason for death and whether crime was involved.

Forensic science is used most frequently with sex crimes and crimes related to drugs. Forensic toxicology establishes if an individual was intoxicated or high while driving after a deadly mishap or if somebody was poisoned to death. DNA proof retrieved from a victim’s body can also ascertain who was accountable for physical or sexual violence.

Weapon testing is yet another essential part of forensic science. Forensic experts utilize their expertise in ammunition to analyze the impact of a bullet, determine the number of shots fired and pinpoint the exact position of a shooter.

Lastly, by analyzing IP addresses and mining databases, computer forensics experts frequently help solve cyber crimes.

ADVERTISEMENT