Forensic Biology
Etymology
| Forensic | Biology |
|---|---|
| Latin Word Forensis meaning “In Open Court” or “Public” | Greek word Bios meaning “Life” and Logos meaning “Study” |
Definition
Forensic Biology is the application of principles and techniques of biological sciences in identification and investigation of biological evidence for legal proceedings.
Legal Questions
- What is the species of origin for an unknown biological sample?
- What is the origin of a biological stain or sample (e.g. blood, semen, saliva) found at a crime scene?
- Whose Blood was found at the crime scene?
- Can the victim be identified based on biological evidence?
- Did the biological evidence found on a weapon belong to the victim or culprit?
- Is there evidence of sexual assault based on biological samples?
- Are there biological traces indicating the presence of an unknown person at the crime scene?
- Can biological evidence link multiple crime scenes or suspects together?
- Can biological evidence refute or support an alibi presented by a suspect?
- Can biological evidence help determine the cause and manner of death?
- What is the identity of an unknown individual based on DNA evidence?
- What is the biological relationship between two individuals?
- Can plant, pollen, or diatom evidence link a suspect or victim to a particular location?
Application
In various cases such as Homicides, Sexual Assaults (includes rape, anal sodomy, oral sodomy and cunnilingus) , Hit and Run Case, Robbery, Assault, Missing Persons/Body Identification etc.