"Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation is a staple for any forensic science library and is routinely referenced by professional organizations as a study guide for certifications. It is professionally written and provides updated theoretical and practical applications using real casework. This text is a must-have for any CSI Unit or course teaching Crime Scene Investigation." – Kevin Parmelee, PhD, Detective (ret.), Somerset County, NJ Prosecutor’s Office
Since the first English-language edition of Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation was published in 1964, the book has continued to be a seminal work in the field of forensic science, serving as a foundational textbook and reference title for professionals.
This Ninth Edition includes several new chapters and has been fully updated and organized to present the effective use of science and technology in support of justice. New coverage to this edition addresses the debunking of a few forensic science disciplines, long thought to have been based on sound science. The book provides students, crime scene investigators, forensic scientists, and attorneys the proper ways to examine crime scenes and collect a wide variety of physical evidence that may be encountered. While it is not possible to cover every imaginable situation, this book is a comprehensive guide that details and promotes best practices and recommendations.
In today’s challenging environment, it is essential that law enforcement personnel thoroughly understand and meticulously comply with the forensic evidence procedures that apply to their function in the investigation process. Criminal investigations remain as complex as ever and require professionals from many disciplines to work cooperatively toward the fair and impartial delivery of justice. Practitioners and students alike need to be aware of the increased scrutiny that they will face in the judicial system. Judges are taking a more involved role than ever before as far as the evidence and testimony that they allow into their courtrooms. No longer will substandard forensic science or crime scene investigation be acceptable.
Key features:
- Newly reorganized contents―including 4 brand new chapters―reflects a more logical flow of crime scene processes and procedures
- Provides an overview of the crime scene investigation process and procedures, from the first officer on the scene through the adjudication of the case
- Includes several new cases, photos, and updates in technological advances in both digital evidence and DNA in particular
Science and technology applied to CSI solves crimes and saves lives. Investigators, prosecutors, and defense attorneys must be able to use forensic tools and resources to their fullest potential and Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation serves as an invaluable resource to further this cause.
Barry A. J. Fisher served as laboratory director for the L.A. County Sheriff's Department. He was president of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the International Association of Forensic Sciences, and American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors. He has consulted for the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, the US DOJ International Criminal Investigative Training Program, and lectures globally on CSI and forensic science. He holds BS and MS degrees in Chemistry and an MBA.
David R. Fisher is the director of the forensic science program at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Before NJIT, he worked as a criminalist in the Department of Forensic Biology at the NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner. He has worked on hundreds of criminal cases and has testified as an expert witness in DNA over 40 times. He is certified in criminalistics by the American Board of Criminalistics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. David holds an MS in Forensic Science and a BS in Biochemistry and Cell Biology.
