Forensic Science*
*Some of it is science, some of it isn't, and some of it may be. Let's discuss.
Not your average take on forensic science*
If you’re interested in forensic science* and the role it plays in criminal justice, this newsletter is perfect for you. If you subscribe, you get full access to the Forensic Science* newsletter and website. Never miss a discussion about an issue, topic, or case! Stuff is happening in Forensic World all the time. I journal items of interest and collate them for you into quick reads that lead to deeper dives. I span the discipline, profession, and industry. Every new edition of the Forensic newsletter goes directly to your inbox.
My perspective: The “Larry David of forensic science”
I’ve been a forensic expert in the private sector and the public sector for 30 years.
I’ve been employed at the city, county, “state” (D.C.), and federal levels of government in forensic agencies. I’ve done bench casework and managed an organization of 140 people.
I’ve worked hundreds of cases for the FBI, the Innocence Network, and private forensic cases for both the prosecution and the defense, including some cases you might recognize, like the Branch Davidian Investigation, 9/11, D.B. Cooper, the West Memphis Three, and many more.
I’ve managed millions of dollars in grants and awards to improve the forensic sciences.
I’ve been awarded and scapegoated.
My research has ranged from microscopic trace evidence to how forensic service providers operate as systems.
I have helped or started 3 forensic academic degree programs (WVU, USF, FIU) and chaired the Forensic Science Educational Program Accreditation Commission for 6 years. I love teaching.
I also have an abiding interest in fraud, counterfeits, and other “forensic-adjacent” topics. Plus, one of my students called me the “Larry David of Forensic Science.”
This is for anyone interested in science informing justice
Scientists, academics, lawyers, judges, police, the public. Everyone. I’ll cover most of the topics in forensic science* and forensic-related ones as well.
Most of the time, I’ll take an Axios Smart Brevity approach to the newsletter, giving you the high points and then offering resources for a deeper dive. Other times, I’ll dive in right in the post for more crunchy topics.