NCJ Number
205310
Journal
Gazette Volume: 65 Issue: 3 Dated: 2003 Pages: 16-17
Date Published
2003
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This panel discussion article offers the opinions of three experts on the future of forensic science as a public-private partnership.
Abstract
The profession of forensic science is not only relied upon more than ever, it is also facing severe challenges in terms of increasing work backlogs, budgetary problems, increasing scrutiny, and a graying of the workforce. All three authors agree that the successful future of forensic science depends on a public-private partnership. The funding, capacity, and testimonies necessary to completely privatize the forensic science profession is lacking, thus a public-private partnership is the most efficient and effective way of analyzing and utilizing all forensic evidence available to law enforcement. The second author notes that the focus for private forensic experts should be to encourage interaction with the defense bar and to support the ethics and integrity of forensic analyses. For the most part, private forensic laboratories have upheld a high level of proficiency and ethical standards; however, in the business-for-profit industry, ethical concerns should always be forefront so as not to be forsaken for profit. The third author agrees that a public-private partnership is not only in order, but necessary for the continued success of forensic science as a law enforcement tool. The task now remains for private and public enterprises to integrate services while avoiding inefficiencies and duplications.