NCJ Number
151748
Journal
Journal of the Forensic Science Society Volume: 34 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-September 1994) Pages: 151-154
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
An unsuccessful investigation into an armed robbery is described to demonstrate the need for the preservation of evidence, the careful evaluation of the significance of negative results, and integrated management of the investigation.
Abstract
The cases involved an armed robbery of a security van. A shot was fired, and the robbers made their initial escape in another van. The police arrested several suspects, seized the vans and clothing, and obtained guns and bullets from the security vans and locations near the route followed by the escaping robbers. The prosecution pursued only some of the possible avenues of scientific investigation. The prosecution also failed to preserve materials for examination by the defense. Another problem arose from the large number of parties involved. As a result, no one was in charge of the scientific investigation. The case reveals the importance of preserving materials that may have evidential value; it can also be argued that the accused were deprived of the opportunity to defend themselves. Findings indicate the need for increased training and supervision of crime scene personnel, as well as for case coordination. 4 references