NCJ Number
143821
Date Published
Unknown
Length
16 pages
Annotation
The Forensic Science Laboratory of Connecticut's Department of Public Safety is staffed with administrative and scientific personnel assigned to four sections consisting of 18 units; it provides investigative and professional leads by documenting and examining physical evidence, crime reconstruction, and expert testimony leading to the arrest and conviction or clearance of a suspect.
Abstract
Requirements to offer additional services due to advances in forensic science and expectations of the criminal justice system have resulted in further expansion of the laboratory during the 1990's. The acquisition of technologies, such as laser and alternate light capabilities, computerized image enhancement, and DNA analysis, have strained the existing laboratory structure even more. The laboratory coordinates and disseminates new information to investigators and members of the judicial community and researches and develops new scientific techniques. It is responsible for examining and analyzing evidentiary materials in such areas as chemistry, arson, firearms, toolmarks, questioned documents, serology, biochemistry, trace evidence, latent fingerprints, imprints, and impressions. Specialized techniques and equipment used by laboratory personnel are described. 11 photographs