Nursing home residents comprise a large and rapidly growing segment of the national population. Despite this fact, the majority of deaths occurring in nursing homes are not investigated because of the significant medical illnesses suffered by most residents. In some deaths, there could be an attempted concealment of the cause and manner of death. Fearing criminal…
Read MoreViolent crime increased 3.9 percent last year, and appear to be on the same upward trend in 2016. Murder and non-negligent manslaughter surged 10.8 percent in 2015, according to the FBI analysis collected by the Uniform Crime Reporting Program. The estimated number of murders across the United States was 15,696. Serial killers hold the fascination…
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Evidence in infant and child death cases is many times very different than in older children and adult deaths, infants die differently than adults, in most cases; so the evidence surrounding their death will be different. Understanding what is potential evidence is critical as well as knowing how and what to collect. Remember – If you think it…
Read MoreThe basic theory behind footwear and tire track analysis is that, much like fingerprints, shoes and tires may leave behind either prints (referred to as “imprints”) or impressions that can be examined by investigators. The type of evidence left behind depends largely on the type of surface traveled. For example, a shoe will leave an…
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The burden of dealing with tragedies associated with the day-to-day duties of police officers, coroners, and medicolegal death investigators, often remains unspoken and follows the officers into their off-duty and personal lives. Failure to recognize and provide an acceptable outlet for the disappointment and frustration felt by officers and investigators at the end of their…
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It is believe by many, and often lived out in reality, that entering the death investigation field is not easy. In fact, its not even a ‘start at the bottom and work your way up system’. I understand that some agencies, like Clark County NV. are doing it right and has a bottom up training program. However,…
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Secrets to Handling Cultural Diversity Effectively When you hear complaints, resolve not to tune out, but to tune in. Respond positively and productively — don’t allow yourself to become sucked into a defensive attitude or emotional altercation. Communication and understanding are salvaged and restored when we listen fully, with ears, eyes, and heart. Excellence is doing…
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What is Culture Culture includes the beliefs, customs, and arts of a particular society, group, or place. Cultural background, as well as individual personalities, directly affects how people respond to death and dying. Sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, religious, gender, personality, and language diversities will help you as you. strive to work effectively with families who…
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Can BlueStar be used to solve a 50 year old case? In this episode I talk with Karen Smith of Bare Bones Forensics about her work in a cold case murder. Karen has had her research published in the Journal of Forensic Identification. The overview of that research and how BlueStar played a role can…
Read MoreArticle Credit: Caliber Press 2007 – Are You Ready to Testify Policeone.com “When you’re testifying in court, the jury, the judge, the prosecutor, the defense, the public–all eyes are on you! Your reputation and that of your department may be enhanced or destroyed by your courtroom presentation,” says VanBrocklin. “There’s another equally important reason…
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