forensics

Forensic Investigative Leads: An Underutilised Weapon Against Crime

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:01:04 GMT

Editorial: (Forensic Science)
"The Identification, Processing and Investigation of Forensic Investigative Leads in the South African Police Service"

Evidence databases, DNA, fingerprints, ballistics, etc., should be a powerful engine driving faster crime detection, yet within the South African Police Service, they remain underused, hampered by backlogs, siloed systems, uneven investigative discipline, and persistent skills shortages.

In their 2026 study, Smith and Horne cut through the noise by mapping how forensic investigative leads (FILs) actually move through the system, testing their reliability in practice, and exposing the operational choke points that blunt their impact.

Drawing on system data, documentary analysis, and practitioner insight, the research does more than diagnose dysfunction; it offers a grounded framework and practical guidelines to speed up FIL processing and strengthen investigative and court outcomes.

The message is blunt: without investing in competent personnel, coherent processes, and consistent oversight, SAPS will continue to leave valuable forensic intelligence on the table. Fixing this is not just a technical exercise; it is central to improving detection rates, securing convictions, and restoring public confidence in the police's ability to solve crime.

Read more in the source.

Source: Smith, J. H., & Horne, J. S. (2026). The identification, processing and investigation of forensic investigative leads in the South African Police Service. SN Social Sciences, 6(3), 99. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43545-025-01277-5

Image: QuillBot (2026). Forensic Investigative Leads [AI-generated image].

When Trauma Doesn’t Translate: Rethinking Memory in Cross-Cultural Interviews

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:45:04 GMT

Editorial: (Investigative Interviewing)
"Culture, Trauma, and Memory in Investigative Interviews"

" Information is the most important source that an investigator can use to solve a crime. Whether he succeeds will depend on how he interrogates a suspect and interviews a witness. It is impossible to establish fixed rules for acting, since no two interviews will ever be the same. Experience, knowledge and time are the most valuable teachers. Interviewing is a cultivated art. It cannot be taught, nor can it be learned from books. " Dr N.J.C. Olivier †

Investigative interviews increasingly cross-cultural boundaries, yet much of what we think we know about trauma and memory is still filtered through a narrow Western lens. Recent 2026 research pushes back on that blind spot, showing that distressing experiences are not only lived differently across cultures but are also remembered and communicated in ways that standard "trauma" models often fail to capture.

By drawing on legal, clinical, and cross-cultural psychology, the work highlights practical obstacles, ranging from reluctance to disclose to miscommunication to the delicate role of interpreters, that can distort or silence testimony. The researchers ultimately argue that if investigators want reliable accounts without coercion, they need to rethink their approach and embed cultural awareness into frameworks, such as The Principles on Effective Interviewing for Investigations and Information Gathering , to ensure interviews are both effective and humane.

Read more in the source.

Source: Vredeveldt, A., Given-Wilson, Z., & Memon, A. (2026). Culture, trauma, and memory in investigative interviews. Psychology, Crime & Law, 32(1), 300-320. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/1068316X.2023.2209262

Image: OpenAI. (2026). Rethinking Memory in Cross-Cultural Interviews [AI-generated image]. DALL·E.

Chasing Justice Across Borders: South Africa’s Struggle to Make Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance Work

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:52:21 GMT

Editorial: (Law & Justice)
"International Co-Operation in Criminal Matters in South Africa: A Comprehensive Analysis of Mutual Legal Assistance and Extradition"

Social media platforms are buzzing with speculation about the possible deportation of a certain South Africa celebrity couple from the United States of America back to South Africa.

Advocate Kuselo Booi provides a comprehensive analysis of mutual legal assistance and extradition. The analysis takes a hard look at how South Africa fits into the global fight against cross-border crime, arguing that while the legal tools for international co-operation, particularly mutual legal assistance and extradition, are firmly in place, their real-world effectiveness is far more uneven. The article provides the following explanations for these terms.

Mutual Legal Assistance is any assistance given by the Requested State in respect of investigations, prosecutions or proceedings in the Requesting State in a criminal matter, irrespective of whether the assistance is sought or is to be provided by a court or some other competent authority.

Extradition may be defined as the delivery of an accused or convicted person to the state where he is accused of, or has been convicted of, a crime by the state in which he is resident at the time .

Adv. Booi underscores the legal gymnastics required when crimes spill across borders, with South African courts sometimes reaching outward through universal jurisdiction or stretching domestic law beyond national boundaries.

The central dilemma is straightforward but stubborn: justice demands prosecution, yet offenders rarely stay conveniently within the reach of the affected state.

By dissecting the International Co-operation in Criminal Matters Act 75 of 1996 alongside global instruments like the United Nations Convention against Corruption, the article finds a system that is functional but strained, hampered by procedural complexity, inconsistent implementation, and evolving criminal networks.

Its conclusion is less celebratory than pragmatic: South Africa must refine its legal frameworks and deepen its understanding of international legal diversity if it hopes to keep pace with the shifting demands of global criminal justice.

Read more in the source.

Source: Booi, K. (2025). International co-operation in criminal matters in South Africa: A comprehensive analysis of mutual legal assistance and extradition. African Student Law Journal, 1(1). https://epubs.ac.za/index.php/aslj/article/view/3022/1964

Image: OpenAI. (2026). Mutual legal assistance (MLA) and extradition between South Africa and the United States [AI-generated image]. DALL·E.

Stripping to the Bone: The Unstandardised Reality of Forensic Maceration

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:02:49 GMT

Editorial: (Forensic Pathology)
"Forensic Maceration – A Comparative Analysis of Literature and Practical Application"

Fans of the crime drama " Bones " might assume that preparing skeletal remains for analysis is a neat, standardised process carried out with near-perfect precision. In reality, forensic maceration is far less uniform, with practices varying widely despite what the textbooks and television might suggest.

"Forensic maceration aims to preserve bone integrity and minimize alterations to bone structure and traces, while

also ensuring long-term storage to facilitate future analyses and investigations." (Kirbach et al., 2026. p 2)

For all the ink spilt on forensic maceration, everyday practice still looks a bit like the Wild West. Stripping soft tissue to expose bone is routine work, yet how it's done varies widely across labs and professionals. A sweep of the literature, 27 qualifying studies, confirms steady methodological tinkering, with warm-water and detergent-based approaches emerging as pragmatic favourites, even if none are flawless. An international survey of 57 institutions across 19 countries shows most practitioners broadly follow these recommendations, but some still lean on harsher techniques. More troubling is the lack of standardisation: maceration often sits outside formal SOPs, undermining consistency and reproducibility.

The takeaway is straightforward: choose methods that are effective but minimally damaging to bone integrity, because today's routine prep can become tomorrow's critical analysis. Here’s the catch: the field still lacks solid evidence on how different maceration techniques affect tool marks and trace materials, leaving a gap that needs urgent attention.

Read more in the source.

Source: Kirbach, M., Kohlt, C., Möller, W. L., Rothschild, M. A., & Petaros, A. (2026). Forensic maceration–A comparative analysis of literature and practical application. International journal of legal medicine, 1-18. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00414-025-03684-y

Image: OpenAI. (2026). Stripping to the bone [AI-generated image]. ChatGPT.

Beyond Proof-of-Concept: Making Forensic Science Research Count

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:31:52 GMT

Editorial: (Forensic Science)
"Towards More Relevance in Forensic Science Research and Development"

For more than a decade, forensic science has been circling the same set of problems, with quality management and research routinely touted as the fix. Yet despite a surge in publications, many driven by adjacent disciplines, the field risks drifting further from its own practical core. Too much recent research is preoccupied with methods and technology, while too little grapples with whether those innovations actually serve real investigations.

The result is a familiar pattern: promising ideas stall at the proof-of-concept stage, rarely making the leap into everyday casework.

Meanwhile, the digital boom has flooded the space with data and publications, making it harder, not easier, to identify what truly matters. No technological advance can compensate for poor-quality evidence gathered at the source.

If forensic science is to move forward, it needs less fascination with novelty and more commitment to relevance, anchored in stronger education, sharper critical thinking, and a culture that prioritises real-world impact over academic output.

Read more in the source.

Source: Weyermann, C., Willis, S., Margot, P., & Roux, C. (2023). Towards more relevance in forensic science research and development. Forensic Science International, 348, 111592. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111592

Image: OpenAI. (2026). From Theory to the Courtroom [AI-generated image]. ChatGPT.

In the Age of AI: Transforming Forensic Science While Practitioners Remain Vigilant

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:27:22 GMT

Editorial: (Forensic Science)

"Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Science: Can It Be a Revolution or Else?"

The need to rely on facts and data rather than assumptions and indignation was emphasised in a recent LinkedIn article by Joha-Maine Andrianatos titled " In the Age of AI: What Fraud Examiners Can Learn " in the field of financial crime investigation. This made me consider the impact on practitioners' prejudices and the function of AI in criminal justice. In this age of instantaneous global information dissemination, how can one preserve a healthy dose of critical thinking?

I recalled an article titled "Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Science: Can It Be a Revolution or Else?" that highlights the growing influence of AI in the field of forensic science. It suggests that forensic science is entering an exciting phase, where new technologies, methods, and scientific breakthroughs are opening up possibilities that once seemed unimaginable. As technology continues to permeate everyday life, crime-solving is becoming increasingly advanced—almost futuristic in its capabilities.

Looking ahead, forensic work will likely be supported by AI, though not entirely driven by it, especially in the gathering and interpretation of evidence for law enforcement. This shift means that not only forensic scientists, but also practising experts, law enforcement personnel, and others involved in the justice system will need a basic understanding of AI, machine learning, and neural networks.

Read more in the source.

Source: Saba, N. & Balwan, W. K. (2025). Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Science: Can It Be a Revolution or

Else? Scholars Academic Journal of Biosciences, 16(22), 9777. https://doi.org/10.36347/sajb.2025.v13i03.005

Image: OpenAI. (2026). In the age of AI: Transforming forensic science while practitioners remain vigilant [AI-generated image]. ChatGPT.

Smart Policing: Where Research Meets Reality in Crime Prevention

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:32:22 GMT

Editorial: (Policing)

"Bridging Policing Practice and Academic Excellence for Sustainable Crime Prevention and Public Sector Reform"

Research in South Africa highlights the urgent need to close the divide between theory and practice in policing. A clear understanding of the country's policing history is essential to developing reforms that are both sustainable and evidence-based. Integrating academic insights into everyday policing offers a strong opportunity to improve accountability, professionalism, and community-focused crime prevention.

However, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has not consistently translated research, community collaboration, and evidence-based approaches into standard practice. This disconnect continues to hinder effective crime prevention and broader public sector reform.

The findings by Dr Modise stress that bridging this gap is not optional but fundamental, and can only be achieved through institutional reform, ethical leadership, and a strong professional culture. Ultimately, meaningful transformation in policing requires a shift from reactive and fragmented methods to proactive, knowledge-driven, and community-centred approaches. Embracing this change would enable SAPS to become a more responsive, credible, and effective institution, contributing to long-term safety, social stability, and national development.

Read more in the source.

Source: Modise, J.M. (2026). Bridging Policing Practice and Academic Excellence for Sustainable Crime Prevention and Public Sector Reform. MRS Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Studies, 3(3), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19400950

Image: OpenAI. (2026). Smart policing: Where research meets reality in crime prevention [AI-generated image]. ChatGPT (DALL·E).

Uncertainty Is Inevitable: Time for a Coherent Forensic Framework

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:49:13 GMT

Editorial: (Forensic Science)

"The Shifting Narrative of Uncertainty: A Case for the Coherent and Consistent Consideration of Uncertainty in Forensic Science"

A 2023 review of academic literature, policy, and case law highlights persistent difficulty in forming a coherent understanding of uncertainty in forensic science, particularly in defining it and clarifying its types and characteristics, while also laying groundwork for a more consistent, cross-institutional approach.

A comprehensive definition that covers the unique aspects required for assessing uncertainty in forensic science is offered by Georgiou, Morgan & French (2023, p 784).

" Anything that falls short of determinism (ranging from the available data and evidence base, to the skill and experience of the expert) and which may have an impact on how much, how confidently and what part of the picture is known by the forensic science expert in relation to any stage of the crime reconstruction process. "

It notes a clear shift in thinking: from attempts to avoid uncertainty to a growing recognition of its complexity and its unavoidable presence throughout the forensic process. Despite this progress, substantial work remains to achieve the clarity needed to conceptualise, evaluate, and report uncertainty within more comprehensive and effective frameworks.

Read more in the source.

Source: Georgiou, N., Morgan, R. M., & French, J. C. (2023). The shifting narrative of uncertainty: a case for the coherent and consistent consideration of uncertainty in forensic science. Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 55(6), 781-797. https://doi.org/10.1080/00450618.2022.2104370

Image: OpenAI. (2026). Uncertainty in Forensic Science Infographic [AI-generated image]. ChatGPT.

Reconstructing a Staged Crime Scene using Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA)

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:57:52 GMT

Editorial: (Incident Scene Reconstruction)

"Application of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA) to Reconstruct a Staged Crime Scene in a Complex Forensic Case"

Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA) is a key forensic tool used to reconstruct events at a crime scene by examining bloodstain patterns to infer actions, forces, and spatial relationships. Advances from fields like fluid dynamics and pathology have strengthened its reliability, but interpretation can be challenging in complex or staged scenes, especially when evidence is inconsistent or misleading.

Factors such as multiple locations, missing victims, or intentional manipulation (e.g., staging) can complicate analysis, while overlooked features, such as blood pattern voids, may reveal tampering. The paper presents a case where a suspected homicide was proven staged through careful BPA, DNA analysis, and interdisciplinary methods, ultimately emphasising the need for a rigorous, evidence-based, and collaborative approach to avoid misinterpretation.

This case highlights the efficiency of a multidisciplinary forensic strategy in detecting staged crime scenes. The use of BPA, DNA fingerprinting, and clinical examination proved that the scene was staged. Recognition of object movement and post-event modification relied heavily on void patterns. The existence of consistent bloodstains and preserved blood that matched the subject's DNA indicated a purposeful simulation. Integrating technical BPA abilities with contextual analysis is crucial for detecting false situations, as demonstrated by these studies. Effective training and cross-disciplinary teamwork are essential for accurate crime scene reconstruction and dependable forensic conclusions.

Read more in the source.

Source: Sacco, M. A., Gualtieri, S., Princi, A., Raffaele, R., & Aquila, I. (2025). Application of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA) to Reconstruct a Staged Crime Scene in a Complex Forensic Case. Forensic Science International: Synergy, 11, 100624. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsisyn.2025.100624

Image: From LinkedIn Article by Bolaji Ogunshola

Gathering Evidence from the Scene of a Traffic Accident

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 08:32:54 GMT

Editorial: (Evidence Gathering)
"Collecting Evidence from the Scene of a Road Crash."

The evidence-gathering guidelines in the article are crucial as they ensure the correct sequence of events in a road crash is preserved and accurately understood. By emphasising that vehicles and debris should not be moved unnecessarily, the guidelines protect the integrity of the scene, since even small disturbances can distort key evidence and lead to incorrect conclusions. Careful documentation through photographs, measurements, and markings allows experts to scientifically reconstruct the crash, enabling them to determine factors such as speed, impact angles, and points of collision with greater reliability.

These procedures are also essential for legal and insurance purposes, as solid, well-documented evidence forms the backbone of any claim or court case. Without it, disputes become difficult to resolve, and cases may collapse due to insufficient evidence. Proper evidence collection further supports credibility and accountability, ensuring that investigations can withstand scrutiny in court rather than relying on assumptions or incomplete information. In addition, controlling access to the scene and recording witness details early helps prevent contamination, loss of evidence, and fading or altered testimonies, all of which can weaken an investigation.

Ultimately, these guidelines protect the rights of everyone involved by promoting fairness and accuracy. They also serve as a benchmark for evaluating whether authorities have conducted a proper investigation. In essence, effective evidence gathering is not just a procedural step but a fundamental requirement for establishing facts, ensuring justice, and avoiding flawed conclusions.

Read more in the source.

Source: Bezuidenhout, Stanley. (5 March 2026). Collecting Evidence from the Scene of a Road Crash. LinkedIn Article.

Image: From LinkedIn Article

The “Fraud Wonderland” Framework: Living in a Distorted Reality by Joha-Maine Andrianatos

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:25:40 GMT

Editorial: Fraud Examination

"A High-Level Critical Review of the "Fraud Wonderland" Framework"

The “Fraud Wonderland” framework, created by Joha-Maine Andrianatos, presents a compelling behavioural model that captures a critical yet often overlooked dimension of fraud:

The role of narrative control and psychological distortion in sustaining long-running schemes.

Its strength lies in identifying consistent, observable patterns, such as grandiosity, entitlement, denial, media manipulation, and reality distortion, that align with established research, such as Snakes in Suits and the concept of Hubris Syndrome . By focusing on behaviours rather than clinical diagnoses, it remains practical and defensible for use by investigators, auditors, and boards of directors, while its narrative framing makes complex fraud dynamics accessible to non-specialists.

However, the model currently leans too heavily on behavioural cues that may also appear in legitimate high-performing leaders, creating a risk of overgeneralization without clear thresholds or contextual qualifiers. Critically, the framework underrepresents structural and governance factors, such as weak controls, board failures, and related-party opacity, that enable fraud to persist, and it lacks a time-based progression showing how fraud evolves into the “Wonderland” state.

Key concepts like “reality distortion” are insightful but need clearer operational definitions, and the checklist's scoring system is overly simplistic, failing to differentiate between minor and critical red flags. Additionally, the framework does not distinguish among different fraud types, limiting its analytical precision.

Overall, “Fraud Wonderland” is a strong early-warning and communication tool that effectively explains how fraudsters construct and sustain their narratives, but it requires integration with governance, financial, and escalation indicators to become a robust forensic risk model that explains not just how fraudsters think, but how they successfully evade detection. Further research is required to expand on this compelling behavioural model as an addition to the Fraud Risk Toolkit.

Read more in the source.

Source: Andrianatos, Joha-Maine. (1 April 2026). The “Fraud Wonderland” Framework – Why We Miss It at the Top. LinkedIn Article.

Image: From LinkedIn Article

The Role of DNA in Crime Investigation: A Look Back at 2002

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:11:40 GMT

A Tribute to Dr N.J.C. Olivier †

Honouring his Contribution to Forensic Science and Biology Education in South Africa

In 2002, Dr N.J.C. Olivier, who is the architect of what is now known as Forensic Academy Africa, published an article in Acta Criminologica titled "The Role of DNA in the Investigation of Crime: A Case for Its Use by South African Investigators".

To commemorate the five-year anniversary of Dr N.J.C. Olivier's passing, and to honour his contribution to forensic science and biology education in South Africa, Forensic Academy Africa revisits the key findings and conclusions made back in 2002.

Research drawn from existing literature and interviews shows that DNA is a valuable and widely used tool in criminal investigations. However, its application in South Africa still has room for improvement. DNA testing remains costly, and results can take up to 3 months to be processed. In addition, not all police members at the SAPS Client Service Centres (police station) level are sufficiently informed about DNA as an investigative method.

The more officers understand DNA and its practical use, the more effective it can become as an investigative resource. If investigators are serious about contributing to crime prevention and improving their success rates, they need to strengthen their knowledge of investigative methods and techniques, including DNA analysis. In South Africa, investigators have not traditionally documented their experiences in writing, resulting in many investigative successes going unrecorded.

This tribute coincides with the final chapter of a landmark qualification. Intake 18, closing on 15 June 2026 , will be the final intake of the National Certificate: Forensic Science (SAQA ID 57651) in its current Legacy Qualification form.

This tribute also marks the closing chapter of another historic qualification. After 16 years, the National Certificate: Forensic Biology (SAQA ID 57977) , in its current form as a Legacy Qualification, will no longer accept learner uptake after 15 June 2026 .

Source: Olivier, N. J.C. (2002). The Role of DNA in the investigation of crime: A case study for its use by South African investigators. Acta Criminoligica , 15(2).

Read the original article.

Image: By Quillbot AI Image Generator

Standardising Biology Laboratory Curriculum for European Undergraduate Programs in Health Education

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:59:43 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Education

"Standardising Biology Laboratory Curriculum in Health Education: A Blueprint for European Undergraduate Programs."

Teaching practical skills with academic knowledge is becoming increasingly vital. Biology laboratories help students understand challenging biological concepts while also developing scientific inquiry, data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in the health and medical sciences. This project attempts to create a competency-based, universal biology laboratory curriculum that fulfils international educational standards and may be implemented in European undergraduate health courses to ensure uniformity and quality.

The researchers investigated medicine, pharmacy, nursing, biology, and biomedical sciences courses at 138 institutions in 28 European countries. Of the 432 syllabi discovered, 290 were recovered, and half included lab components. Microscopy, DNA isolation and PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, cell division, cell structure and function, laboratory safety, and basic laboratory equipment were the most popular laboratory topics.

Based on these findings, the article recommends a two-semester approach that combines biology lab skills with advanced molecular processes. In line with European educational standards, the framework updates training and increases accessibility through virtual labs and artificial intelligence. The curriculum prepares students for health-related occupations by improving their fundamental biology knowledge and connecting it to advanced physiological understanding.

The study finds that health and medical students require a solid biological basis, and that lab learning enhances competence and confidence. In a globalised health education system, a standardised biology curriculum can help provide equitable, high-quality instruction for students from many institutions and nations. This minimises disparities in laboratory training and better prepares future health professionals to handle global health concerns.

Read more in the source.

Source: Nicolaou, S. A., Nicolaou, P., Dafli, E., Bamidis, P. D., Puig, B., & Lazar, G. (2026). Standardizing biology laboratory curriculum in health education: a blueprint for European undergraduate programs. Advances in physiology education, 50(1), 57–64.

Image: By Quillbot AI Image Generator

Emerging Evidence about Trauma-Informed Approaches in Forensic Science Education

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:45:45 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Education

"Trauma-informed pedagogy in forensic science education: Scoping review of and reflection on the limited available evidence"

Trauma is the physical or psychological response to a stressful, damaging, or life-threatening incident. Trauma-informed pedagogy (TIP) recognises trauma's symptoms and adapts teaching methods to facilitate recovery and health. Trigger warnings, staff training, support service coordination, and flexible teaching techniques led by safety, trust, transparency, and peer support may be used.

TIP is rarely studied in forensic science education, although it has been in higher education. Thus, this scoping review examines the minimal university-level TIP research in forensic science from the perspective of teachers with academic and field experience.

In forensic science, where delicate and possibly upsetting themes are prominent, TIP may be worth investigating because trauma is pervasive in society and can influence students in academic settings. TIP is difficult to use in this subject due to little evidence. The authors suggest more discussion and study to determine how knowledgeable forensic science instructors are about TIP, how it is utilised, what challenges may limit its implementation, and how acceptable it is in the field. The research concludes that forensic science requires teaching difficult material in methods that safeguard student well-being and promote learning.

Read more in the source.

Source: Venson, R., & Korb, A.-S. (2025). Trauma-Informed Pedagogy in Forensic Science Education: Scoping Review of and Reflection on (Very Limited) Available Evidence. Science & Justice, 65(1), 21–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scijus.2024.12.003

Image: By Quillbot AI Image Generator

Analysis of Digital Accounting Education Literature From 1982 to 2023.

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:14:53 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Education

"An Analysis of Accounting Education Literature in the Digital Era."

This paper analyses the predominant trends in digital accounting education research. This bibliometric study of 287 indexed publications from 1982 to 2023 delineates significant topics, research trajectories, authors, keywords, journals, organisations, and countries that have shaped the discipline. It further suggests avenues for investigation.

The article asserts that accounting education must no longer see AI and other coming technologies as optional. Technologies that employ hybrid intelligence to enhance human judgement and decision-making should be included into the core curriculum. Higher education institutions could utilise seminars, internships, competitions, industry engagement, together with blockchain, cybersecurity, and big data analytics. These strategies facilitate the instruction of students on modern accounting principles and competencies.

The study also highlights colleges collaborating with professional accounting bodies to train professors in new technology. Accounting curricula must be revised to incorporate technology improvements as a component of quality assurance and accreditation protocols. Policymakers ought to advocate for curriculum reform, infrastructure enhancement, research institutions, and international collaboration. In underprivileged nations, enhanced assistance is necessary for data literacy, program transformation through practitioner involvement, and access to digital technologies like Tableau, Python, and SQL. The research revealed that scholars necessitate a conducive institutional culture and enhanced working environment to foster innovation and integrate new technologies into accounting education.

Read more in the source.

Source: Amin, H. M. G., Hassan, R. S., Ghoneim, H., & Abdallah, A. S. (2024). A bibliometric analysis of accounting education literature in the digital era: current status, implications and agenda for future research. Journal of Financial Reporting and Accounting, 23(2), 742–768. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFRA-12-2023-0802

Image: By Quillbot AI Image Generator

Forensic Accounting in South African Banks to Reduce Fraud Risk.

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 10:42:16 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Accounting

"Application of forensic accounting techniques in the South African banking industry for the purpose of fraud risk mitigation."

The banking sector is progressively vulnerable to cyber crime as it embraces new technology and digital banking systems. These risks can diminish client happiness and adversely affect profitability, goodwill, and the general reputation of banks. An effective method to mitigate these risks is through proficient forensic accounting. This research investigates the application of forensic accounting techniques within South Africa's banking sector, specifically concerning fraud risk assessment and management. The results indicate that deficiencies arising from the inadequate use of forensic methods partially contribute to cyberfraud occurrences in the industry. The research underscores the significance of forensic accounting in mitigating fraud risk and aims to enhance the sparse literature in this domain.

The research primarily investigates the function of forensic accounting methods in reducing fraud risk. The study employed an explanatory research design, utilising a qualitative methodology and purposive sampling. Primary data were obtained from the 17 licensed commercial banks functioning in South Africa. Conclusions were derived via inferential statistical analysis by accurately depicting the situation inside these banks. The study examined both human and organisational viewpoints, incorporating insights from bank experts. The findings indicate that deficiencies in the use of forensic methods contribute to some instances of cyber crime inside the banking sector. The study found inadequate evidence to definitively establish a direct connection between fraud risk assessment and management and the effective application of forensic accounting concerning the identified causes of cyberfraud; however, it did indicate a positive correlation between fraud risk assessment and management and the implementation of forensic accounting. The study highlights the significance of forensic accounting in reducing fraud risk and seeks to enhance the current literature, which is still scarce in this domain.

Read more in the source.

Source: Akinbowale, O. E., Klingelhöfer, H. E., & Zerihun, M. F. (2023). Application of forensic accounting techniques in the South African banking industry for the purpose of fraud risk mitigation. Cogent Economics & Finance, 11(1), 2153412. https://doi.org/10.1080/23322039.2022.2153412

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Fraud: The Hidden Epidemic!

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:05:29 GMT

Editorial: Fraud Examination

"Why Fraudsters Deserve the Same Scrutiny as Serial Killers."

Fraudsters often defy the image of the typical villain; they are frequently charismatic and intelligent individuals who blend effortlessly into professional settings. A comprehensive review of psychological studies reveals a pattern of personality traits that facilitate their deceitful actions. The most significant traits include:

1. Manipulativeness and Deception

2. Risk-Taking and Rationalisation

3. Psychopathic Tendencies in Corporate Environments

While law enforcement allocates substantial resources to pursue serial killers, employing sophisticated behavioural profiling units and high-profile task forces, the response to fraud is often alarmingly underwhelming. Although fraud doesn't claim lives in the same dramatic way as violent crime, its repercussions can be equally devastating. Victims may find themselves facing dire financial ruin, unable to meet medical expenses, especially vulnerable older adults who are prime targets for exploitation.

This crisis is exacerbated by systemic police resource shortages and staffing deficits, allowing fraudsters to operate as serial offenders without fear of capture. Unlike serial killers, who draw swift response from multiple agencies, fraudsters can shift seamlessly from one scheme to another, be it Ponzi scams, investment frauds, or identity theft, often evading justice for years. During this time, victims suffer catastrophic losses, families are shattered, and despair can lead to tragic outcomes such as suicide.

There is a growing consensus that underfunded fraud units, redeployed detectives pressed into other duties, and overwhelmed investigators create an environment where these predators can operate largely unchecked. This neglect allows the damage they inflict to compound dramatically until a collapse occurs or a rare breakthrough in the case is achieved. We must urgently address this imbalance, shining a light on the severe impact of fraud and demanding stronger action to protect vulnerable members of our community.

Read more in the source.

Source: Joha-Maine Andrianatos. (29 January 2026 ). The Hidden Epidemic: Why Fraudsters Deserve the Same Scrutiny as Serial Killers. Fraud Talk. LinkedIn.

( https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/hidden-epidemic-why-fraudsters-deserve-same-scrutiny-andrianatos-tw4xf/ )

Image: https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/D4D12AQHlQhI1w4hNFg/article-cover_image-shrink_720_1280/B4DZwIO74xGYAI-/0/1769664660248?e=1771459200&v=beta&t=ghOxwtQPr-TMjHUO6uzn7NZ04xKzbA6gG65Dw13INNI

Is Your Child Unknowingly Laundering Money?

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:49:58 GMT

Editorial: Money-Laundering

"How Gaming ‘Coins’ Became a New Frontier for Financial Crime"

Every parent knows the unyielding grip of "pester power." It often begins with a desperate plea from a child, urging them to understand why a particular game skin, weapon, or character is crucial for their social standing. For many, the urge to maintain peace leads them to spend hundreds of rands on Fortnite V-Bucks or Roblox Robux, but this seemingly small price comes with bigger implications.

Beneath these innocent microtransactions lies a shadowy parallel economy that processes billions of rand annually. In this high-stakes environment, where money moves freely without oversight, financial criminals lurk, ready to exploit the system.

While South African banks and financial institutions have taken significant strides to fortify their defences against money laundering—especially under the looming threat of grey listing until October 2026—online gaming platforms remain largely unregulated and chaotic. Although they handle substantial financial transactions like a typical financial system, they often lack the safeguards needed to protect users.

This creates the perfect opportunity for criminals. Alarmingly, they are increasingly targeting vulnerable children, grooming them to carry out their illicit schemes. It's time for us to recognise the hidden dangers in our children's gaming habits and advocate for stronger regulations to protect them from exploitation.

Read more in the source .

Source: Hawken McEwan. (23 January 2026 ). Is Your Child Unknowingly Laundering Money? How Gaming ‘Coins’ Became a New Frontier for Financial Crime.

( https://blog.kycafrica.ncino.com/is-your-child-unknowingly-laundering-money-how-gaming-coins-became-a-new-frontier-for-financial-crime?utm_campaign=42944744-FY26%20-%20Monthly%20Newsletter&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9KpTO59M1tD0zLct1QYK-JHE2OFr4-46zsJ1vdDTonjoys3mFLVSyXU86xDcPq0fenmPWWgbhFqgbs6BQ4WlBpq5ek1A&_hsmi=127240061&utm_content=127240061&utm_source=hs_email )

Image: https://blog.kycafrica.ncino.com/hubfs/nCino-KYC-Is-your-child-unknowingly-laundering-money_-How-gaming-%E2%80%98coins%E2%80%99-became-a-new-frontier-for-financial-crime-1.jpg

Revisiting the Essence of Forensic Science

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 03:12:43 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Science

"The Sydney declaration: Revisiting the Essence of Forensic Science through its Fundamental Principles"

Forensic science is a cornerstone of the criminal justice system, though its effectiveness and reliability have sparked significant debate in recent years. Key issues include backlogs, quality management, bias reduction, and evidence assessment and communication. Despite suggested solutions, forensic science remains in a crisis, often viewed from organisational perspectives rather than its own discipline.

The Sydney Declaration outlines a definition of forensic science and seven principles that articulate its foundations:

1. Activities leave essential informational traces.

2. Scene investigation requires expert scientific knowledge.

3. Forensic science relies on cases, scientific knowledge, and logical reasoning.

4. Findings are evaluated in the context of time.

5. It addresses a range of uncertainties.

6. Forensic science serves multiple purposes.

7. Findings' significance is context dependent.

These principles advocate for a scientific foundation in forensic practice, promoting a consensus on the importance of traces. They should guide competencies in education and quality management, addressing all aspects of the forensic process. The Sydney Declaration aims to unify the professional community and foster a deeper understanding of forensic science's purpose, paving the way for improved education and cultural transformation in the field.

Read more in the source.

Source: Claude Roux, Rebecca Bucht, Frank Crispino, Peter De Forest, Chris Lennard, Pierre Margot, Michelle D. Miranda, Niamh NicDaeid, Olivier Ribaux, Alastair Ross, Sheila Willis. (2022) The Sydney declaration – Revisiting the essence of forensic science through its fundamental principles, Forensic Science International, Volume 332, 111182,

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111182. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0379073822000123)

Image: https://drupal.uts.edu.au/sites/default/files/styles/full_width_small_1x/public/2024-10/forensic-science-campaign_1.jpg?itok=J11gLXvc

Bridging the Gap between Education and Forensic Workplace

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:26:03 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Education

"Forensic Training: Bridging the Gap between Education and the Workplace"

Outreach initiatives, like learnerships, aim to enhance the skills of existing laboratory personnel by mentoring students, collaborating with universities, and adding value to the forensic community. According to Smith & Horne, it also seeks to improve employee satisfaction through role diversity and includes mixer activities to foster engagement between students and scientists. In southern Africa, the demand for forensic science within the criminal justice system is critical due to complex criminal issues. Forensic scientists play vital roles in areas like digital forensics, firearm examinations, fingerprint analysis, and DNA testing. However, media portrayals often romanticise forensic work, leading to misconceptions about the field.

Wickenheiser et al. emphasise the importance of outreach initiatives in correcting these misconceptions and highlight the need for practical strategies in forensic education. Section 15T of the Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act emphasises public awareness of DNA testing. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is actively engaging with students to introduce forensic careers early in their education.

Collaboration between universities and forensic services is essential for applied research and hands-on training, with several South African institutions recognising the need for relevant forensic science qualifications. However, postgraduate programs in this field are limited in southern Africa. Improved academic collaboration is needed to advance innovative practices and support research publication among young African forensic scientists. To encourage scientific diversity, we propose a permanent committee within the Southern Africa Regional Forensic Science Forum to facilitate collaboration and ensure that forensic qualifications meet community needs.

Read more in the source.

Source: Smith, J. H., & Horne, J. S. (2024). Forensic training - bridging the gap between education and workplace. Forensic Sci Int Synerg, 8, 100463. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fsisyn.2024.100463

Image: https://www.globsyn.edu.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Bridgethegap_FB-1.jpg

Forensic DNA Phenotyping

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:06:56 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Biology

"Opening up Forensic DNA Phenotyping: The Logics of Accuracy, Commonality and Valuing"

Over twenty years ago, Kathleen Jordan and Michael Lynch analysed the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), a technique for copying specific DNA sequences, observing that its scientific identity shifted as it was applied in medical, forensic, and public realms. According to Hopman, they concluded that PCR is adapted to various contexts rather than being a uniform tool.

Today, PCR remains prevalent in forensics, and Jordan and Lynch's insights are relevant as we explore Forensic DNA Phenotyping (FDP), which predicts physical traits of unknown suspects from crime scene DNA. This process transitions from research labs to forensic settings and investigations, each governed by different logics.

In research labs, FDP aims for individualised facial composites, focusing on accuracy and unique genetic traits. In forensic labs, constraints limit results to shared genetic traits, which Hopman terms the logic of commonality. Finally, for police investigators, FDP results guide their focus on specific groups, reflecting the valuing logic.

Hopman's analysis reveals a disconnect between research aspirations and forensic realities. While individual composites may be the goal in labs, broad phenotypic categories often prove more practical in investigations. As FDP technologies develop, particularly with biomarkers, understanding their integration into research and forensic practices becomes critical. The Dutch public prosecutor's mention in 2018 of composite sketches based on DNA reflects the tension between evolving technology and the expectations it generates, highlighting the need for further exploration of FDP in forensic contexts.

Read more in the source.

Source: Hopman, R. (2020). Opening up forensic DNA phenotyping: the logics of accuracy, commonality and valuing. New Genetics and Society. https://doi.org/10.1080/14636778.2020.1755638

Image: https://endeavordna.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/AdobeStock_276702076-2048x1024.jpeg

Digital Pathology and AI in Forensic Medicine

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:40:29 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Pathology

"Digital Pathology and AI in Forensic Medicine: Advances, Limitations, and Medico-legal Utility"

Forensic histopathology, according to Singh et al., is vital for determining causes of death through the microscopic examination of tissue samples from major organs. Traditional pathology methods are time-consuming and susceptible to human error. However, digital pathology (DP), which includes whole-slide imaging (WSI) and AI-powered tools, has revolutionised forensic examinations by providing high-resolution images and enabling remote consultations.

DP enhances medico-legal autopsies by improving diagnostic accuracy, allowing for long-term storage of evidence, and facilitating collaboration among experts. Despite its advantages, challenges such as financial limitations, technical issues, and legal uncertainties regarding digital evidence persist.

To fully realise the potential of digital pathology, it is essential to establish standard procedures, legal frameworks, and training programs. As AI and other emerging technologies continue to evolve, they will significantly enhance post-mortem analyses and improve the quality of forensic investigations, helping forensic agencies meet the demands of modern medico-legal practice.

Read more in the source.

Source: Singh, J. P., Tyagi, S., Sharma, A., Chanana, A., & Basra, S. (2025). Digital pathology and AI in forensic medicine: advances, limitations, and medico-legal utility. Academia Medicine, 2(3). https://doi.org/10.20935/AcadMed7799

Image: https://cdn.sanity.io/images/0vv8moc6/medec/26edc1a0e3a92bd8004ae3b8da67170d5a24ea30-1200x766.jpg?fit=crop&auto=format

Fingerprint-Based Blood-Grouping

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 03:23:15 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Biology

"Overview of Fingerprint-Based Blood-Grouping using Various Tools and Techniques"

Identifying blood groups, according to Sharma et al., is crucial for medical diagnostics and emergency care, but traditional methods are invasive, time-consuming, and often inaccessible. To address this, researchers are exploring fingerprint-based blood grouping as a non-invasive, rapid, and cost-effective alternative.

Modern fingerprint scanners paired with smartphone apps can capture high-resolution images efficiently. AI-driven predictive models using biometric and blood group data have shown promising accuracy, making this method applicable in disaster zones and rural clinics. This study investigates the use of fingerprint patterns to predict blood types, aiming to enhance prediction accuracy and explore real-world applications.

Research has found significant correlations between fingerprint patterns (loops, whorls, arches) and specific ABO and Rh blood types. While fingerprint analysis alone may not determine blood groups definitively, it offers valuable insights when combined with AI and machine learning. This method is non-invasive and accessible, making it suitable for forensic scenarios and emergency situations. Recent studies report prediction accuracies exceeding 85–90%, hinting at the potential for semi-automated systems in various settings, where users could easily predict blood types by scanning their fingerprints.

Read more in the source.

Source: Sanskriti Rani Sharma, Dinesh Sharma, Vijay Panchal, Palack Asati. (2025), Overview of Fingerprint-Based Blood-Grouping using Various Tools and Techniques. Medico-Legal Update / Vol 25 No. 3. https://ijop.net/index.php/mlu/article/view/3669

Image: https://fgih.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/Fingerprint-small-qnezn51djv7p4jjo7j5ce417ml9fh592bwj9eh8isw.jpg

Outsmarting Real-Life Criminals in the Virtual World

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:53:30 GMT

Editorial: Spotlight Cybercrime Focus:

Outsmarting Real-life Criminals in the Virtual World

With digital devices ubiquitous and a robust digital infrastructure in place, cybercrime has become a major global threat. INTERPOL Spotlight highlights how criminals exploit malicious software, phishing, sextortion, and online scams to deceive individuals, threaten businesses and economies, and maximise profits.

Cybercrime presents evolving challenges for law enforcement, with INTERPOL member nations identifying it as a key threat. Criminals increasingly operate anonymously on the dark web, using cryptocurrencies and encrypted messaging. The rise of cybercrime-as-a-service also lowers barriers to entry for these high-reward crimes.

INTERPOL cyber specialists are exploring strategies to combat sextortion and phishing while protecting connected devices from residential proxies. These proxies exploit the Internet of Things by infecting home devices with malware during manufacturing, allowing criminals to conduct illegal activities unnoticed. “This new danger exemplifies the limitless innovation in cybercrime,” says Sangsoon Kim, emphasising INTERPOL's commitment to bridging gaps among stakeholders to combat this threat effectively.

Read more in the source.

Source: INTERPOL, https://www.interpol.int/Resources/INTERPOL-Spotlight/Issue-2-Cybercrime/Spotlight-Cybercrime-Focus

Image: Interpol.int. https://www.interpol.int/var/interpol/storage/images/0/0/5/6/406500-1-eng-GB/c73cfc531327-Spotlight2-Cyberecrime-Focus-Servers.png

Forensics and TheScientificWorld

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:59:55 GMT

Editorial: The Evolution and Impact of Forensic Science: A Reflection on DNA Profiling

At the dawn of the new millennium, according to Rowe, it's important to reflect on forensic science, a field established just over a century ago. Its roots trace back to 1887, with A. Conan Doyle's *A Study in Scarlet* popularised the importance of physical evidence, and Hans Gross’s *Handbuch für Untersuchungsrichter* outlined how various scientific fields can aid criminal investigations. Advances over the years include fingerprint analysis, forensic chemistry, and toxicology, with modern judicial systems relying more on scientific evidence than eyewitness accounts.

The most significant recent development is DNA profiling, which has drastically changed the criminal justice landscape. It allows for precise identification of suspects, narrowing possibilities from conventional tests to as low as 1 in 100 million. Techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) enable analysis of small or degraded samples.

This technology promotes impartiality in forensic science and has exonerated many wrongfully convicted individuals. The FBI reports that about a third of DNA cases exclude the primary suspect. Organisations like the Innocence Project have used DNA to clear individuals of serious crimes, sparking crucial conversations about the death penalty and revealing issues of bias and incompetence among some law enforcement and forensic professionals.

Read more in the source.

Source: Rowe, Walter, Founding Editorial – Forensics and TheScientificWorld, The Scientific World Journal, 1, 731531, 4 pages, 2001. https://doi.org/10.1100/tsw.2001.299

Image: The-Scientist.com. https://cdn.the-scientist.com/assets/image/47970/03-25-forensics-banner-s.webp

From “familial searching” to “forensic genetic genealogy”: New frontiers – and challenges – of DNA analysis in criminal investigations

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 02:28:15 GMT

Editorial: New Frontiers and Challenges of DNA Analysis in Criminal Investigations.

Since its introduction in 1985, according to Formici, DNA testing has become vital in criminal investigations through forensic genetics, which extracts unique DNA profiles from crime scene samples. In the mid-1990s, many countries established national DNA databases that store genetic profiles of convicted individuals, and sometimes arrestees, victims, or persons of interest. Law enforcement can access these databases under strict regulations for comparisons with DNA from crime scenes to identify unknown offenders.

However, the collection and retention of such sensitive genetic information raise significant privacy concerns and affect citizens' rights, including data protection and the presumption of innocence. Balancing effective investigations with individual privacy rights presents a challenge for legislators, who must make careful regulatory choices. The key question remains: to what extent can the rights of innocent civilians be compromised to prevent future offences and enhance public safety?

The increasing use of familial searching and genetic genealogy reflects a tendency among authorities to leverage sensitive data for security, similar to trends seen in telecommunications and biometric identification. This raises concerns about over-surveillance and the potential erosion of privacy in society.

Read more in the source.

Source: Formici, G. (2021). From "familial searching" to "forensic genetic genealogy": new frontiers – and challenges – of DNA analysis in criminal investigations. BioLaw Journal - Rivista Di BioDiritto, (1S), 305–328. https://doi.org/10.15168/2284-4503-788

Image: ForensicMag.com. https://media.labcompare.com/m/53/article/594940.jpg

AI can simplify complexity in litigation support

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:54:48 GMT

Editorial: AI can simplify complexity in litigation support

Artificial intelligence (AI), according to Warne, Charron and Cornell, has the potential to improve litigation support by assisting accounting professionals in clarifying intricate accounting ideas and delivering persuasive evidence. Here’s a guide to understanding the technology’s limitations, legal considerations, and optimal practices for utilising AI to further justice.

Cases of financial fraud often involve complicated terminology and vast amounts of documents and data. These intricate details are clear to the accountants and financial professionals who dedicate extensive time—sometimes months or years—to analyse the data and trace the money back to the wrongdoers. However, imagine how a jury might perceive an alleged construction fraud case that includes several interconnected contracts—such as agreements between a contractor and a client, along with a different loan agreement with a bank—without the expertise required to understand it. To the jury, an accountant serving as an expert witness may as well be speaking in a foreign language. As fraud cases become more data-driven and convoluted, the role of financial analysts and litigation support specialists must adapt. In the courtroom, accountants have transitioned from mere number crunchers to storytellers, interpreters, and crucial contributors in the pursuit of justice.

When legal conflicts arise, it is the responsibility of accounting experts to analyse the figures, resolve discrepancies in interpretation, and present a coherent account of what transpired. In a construction fraud case, forensic accounting professionals called to testify must determine who made specific agreements by gathering an extensive paper trail that could encompass hundreds of pages, including contracts, loan agreements, requests for payments, inspector reports, and additional documentation. Their responsibilities also include reconstructing a detailed month-by-month account of the project’s progress in relation to financial records and contractual agreements. Conveying complex financial concepts in an understandable manner for a jury poses a challenge. In court, effective communication is just as essential as technical precision. Due to the magnitude of this task, many experts have started to utilise artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in transforming dense data into accessible, visually engaging narratives that can withstand legal examination.

AI is a revolutionary force for accounting professionals, particularly in litigation support. It turns complex data into compelling summaries, intuitive visuals, and clear reports, bridging the gap between expert accountants and lawmakers. To fully leverage AI, accounting experts must master prompt engineering and navigate its ethical and legal complexities. Implementing a strong data governance policy, providing thorough training, and establishing acceptable use guidelines are essential for responsible AI integration. Those who embrace AI as a strategic asset will enhance their practice and redefine their roles as influential communicators. By automating routine tasks, generative AI allows accountants to concentrate on higher-level functions like persuasive opinion development and courtroom strategy, positioning them as powerful advocates for truth and justice.

Read more from the source.

Source: Rick C. Warne, Kim Charron, Robert M. Cornell (2025), AI can simplify complexity in litigation support. Article in Fraud Magazine . https://www.acfe.com/fraud-magazine/all-issues/issue/article?s=2025-septoct-ai-for-enhancing-ligitation-support

Image: Fraud Magazine . https://www.acfe.com/fraud-magazine/all-issues/issue/article?s=2025-septoct-ai-for-enhancing-ligitation-support

The genetic witness: forensic DNA phenotyping

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:38:00 GMT

Editorial: The Genetic Witness: Forensic DNA Phenotyping

Before the advent of DNA testing, according to van Laan, forensic biological samples were processed primarily through serology techniques, such as ABO blood typing and polymorphic isoenzyme analysis, to narrow down potential donors. While these methods could help eliminate unlikely suspects, they could not pinpoint an individual. Research has shown that many convictions based on serology were later proven incorrect when DNA testing was applied, with FBI studies indicating that nearly one-third of serologically determined cases would be excluded by DNA. This high error rate, often due to exaggerated serological findings, led to wrongful convictions and increased calls for better testing methods.

DNA, a fundamental building block of life, became a cornerstone of forensic investigation after Sir Alec Jeffreys discovered its ability to individualise humans in 1984. Testing techniques have advanced since then, starting with Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP). Although RFLP provided valuable results, it required a significant amount of quality DNA and was time-consuming.

In the future, even tiny amounts of DNA could create accurate photographic composites of suspects, allowing for specific and rapid identification. Forensic DNA Phenotyping (FDP) of External Visual Characteristics (EVCs) could deter crime by increasing the likelihood of identification. Additionally, retrieving fingerprints from DNA samples could allow for searches in databases like the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).

Despite its promise, FDP technology is still developing and requires further validation for reliable use. Research is needed on environmental changes, mixed sample interpretations, and improving predictive accuracy. Regulations should guide the responsible use of FDP to mitigate risks of misuse. Ultimately, FDP must be employed to objectively seek the truth and ensure justice.

Read more from the source.

Source: Michele Van Laan (2017), The genetic witness: forensic DNA phenotyping. Journal of Emerging Forensic Science Research. Vol. 2 No. 2: 33-52. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14636778.2012.687132

Image: By Jerome Walker - Own work, created from GDFL work created by Michael Ströck, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=934419

Forensic Uses of DNA Profiling Technologies

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:11:04 GMT

Editorial: Forensic Biology

"Risky Profiles: Societal Dimensions of Forensic Uses of DNA Profiling Technologies

In the last 25 years, according to Heineman, Lemka and Prainsack, DNA profiling technologies have revolutionised forensic science and criminal investigations, reshaping our understanding of these processes and how they are managed and regulated. DNA testing is widely viewed, not just in public perception but also within legal frameworks, as a nearly infallible method for identifying individuals and linking evidence from crime scenes to specific suspects. This deep trust in forensic DNA technologies has positioned them as vital components of national criminal prosecution and justice systems. Furthermore, as globalisation and digital communication continue to expand, crime and prevention strategies are increasingly being addressed by agencies and policymakers that operate beyond traditional national boundaries.

Historically, there has been a striking absence of comparative analyses in the social sciences regarding forensic technologies. Victor Toom’s article marks a significant step in filling this critical gap. By systematically comparing the governance structures and organisational approaches of two national forensic DNA databases, the National DNA Databank of England & Wales (NDNAD) and the Dutch DNA database. Toom unveils essential similarities and differences in their operations. While he cautiously concludes that the Dutch DNA database is equally effective in facilitating criminal investigations, he highlights that its organisational structure upholds individual rights and legal principles to a greater extent than its English counterpart. This analysis not only provides vital insights into the distinct trajectories of these two national databases but also proposes criteria for a model of “best practices” that could enhance the international and European coordination of DNA databases.

As the examination of existing literature and the articles featured in this Special Issue illustrate, social science and Science and Technology Studies (STS) scholars are making indispensable contributions to challenging and reframing the narrative that casts DNA technologies as faultless producers of scientific truth. Yet, there remains a pressing need for more empirical research into the influence of science and technology in criminal investigations and the practical application of forensic technologies within police work. Additionally, a conceptual reevaluation is necessary to address critical “unexamined assumptions” that have guided previous research in this area. By pushing for these advancements, we can foster a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the intersection between technology and justice.

Read more from the source.

Source: Torsten Heinemann, Thomas Lemke, and Barbara Prainsack (2012), Risky Profiles: Societal dimensions of forensic uses of DNA technologies. New Genetics & Society 31/3: 249-258. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14636778.2012.687132

Image: Practical aspects of DNA-based forensic studies in dentistry - Scientific Figure on ResearchGate. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Sources-of-DNA-for-forensic-analysis_fig1_51737474 [accessed 29 Sept 2025]

Four Foreign Nationals, South African Found Guilty of Fraud and Corruption

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 07:57:05 GMT

Successful prosecution in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court for the HAWKS

Five people, including four foreign nationals and one South African national, have been found guilty of fraud and corruption by the Durban Magistrate’s Court.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said Tausi Majani Kahwere (25) and John Majani Kahwere (44), who are both Congolese, were convicted on Monday.

Other three accused, Morshed Alam (25), Saiful Islam Sujon (43), both Bangladeshi nationals and Oliver Whendle Hurriparsad (42), a South African national, were found guilty on Tuesday.

Mogale said the convictions follow a lengthy investigation by the National Serious Corruption Investigation, in collaboration with Department of Home Affairs' Counter Corruption in KwaZulu-Natal, which resulted in a lengthy trial until all the accused pleaded guilty.

It is reported that during 2021, a Department of Home Affairs official, Judy Zuma, operating with a foreign national’s syndicate, colluded with South African citizens to assist foreign nationals from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Democratic Republic of Congo to obtain South African passports by using their identity documents and biometrics.

“The foreign nationals fraudulently replaced the owners’ photos with theirs and assumed the names of the South African citizens. The official, Judy Zuma, has since pleaded guilty and convicted on 1 159 counts of fraud, corruption, contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 and contravention of the Identification Act,” Mogale said.

Mogale said the foreign nationals were arrested between 2021 and 2023 as they were boarding flights to different destinations, and already gone through the airport processes.

The suspects were found guilty of all seven charges brought against them, including fraud; corruption: Contravention of Section 3, Act 12 f 2004; Contravention of Section 18 (1) (a) of the Identification Act, Act 68 of 1998; Contravention of Section 49 (7) of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002; Corruption under Section 3, Act 12 of 2004; and Contravention of Section 18 (1) (a) (c) of Identification Act.

Mogale said the Congolese duo will be sentenced on Friday, while the trio will be sentenced on 21 May 2024, and Zuma will be sentenced on 05 April 2024.

The Wealthy and the Criminal Justice System

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 09:16:27 GMT

The Wealthy and the Criminal Justice System.

Remain Blind, Lady Justice.

Reeva Steenkamp Murder

Most people would agree that the Reeva Steenkamp murder is still South African history’s most well-known criminal case. The famed Paralympian, Oscar Pistorius, is convicted of murdering her. When the Pistorius trial was broadcast live on television, it created history for the South African legal system. Pistorius asserted that he shot his 29-year-old girlfriend dead through the toilet door because he believed an intruder was in the house.

After an appeals court amended the accusation from culpable homicide to murder, Pistorius’s sentence was six years in jail in July 2016. The sentence was modified again in November 2017 after being described as “shockingly mild”. The Supreme Court of Appeal extended it to 15 years, less any time spent in jail or under home arrest.

From the outset, the Pistorius case was troubling, and the sentence created a dangerous precedent awarded to the privileged. We are reminded aware of how the wealthy may abuse the legal system. The 35-year-old convicted murderer and former Paralympic sprint champion Oscar Pistorius has his sights set on his possible release in 2023 after receiving glowing behaviour reports during his time inside.

Chanelle Henning Murder

On 8 November 2011, two men on a motorcycle shot and killed Chanelle Henning just metres away from where she dropped her child off at his creche in Faerie Glen, Pretoria.

Pathologist Prof Gert Saayman testified that Chanelle died of massive blood loss from a gunshot wound caused by a heavy calibre gun. She had a gunshot wound to the right upper arm and chest, from right to left, which perforated the aorta and both lungs.

Nearly five years after the murder of Chanelle, Nico Henning was to go on trial for plotting his wife’s murder in the High Court in Pretoria in October 2016. However, the State withdrew all charges against Nico Henning. Prosecutor Gerrie Nel told the court that the State was not prepared to proceed with the matter and withdrew all charges against him.

The charges were dropped without explanation. Rumours made the rounds that Andre Gouws, who was supposed to be the State’s key witness, had broken his word by refusing to testify against Henning. Some suspect Gouws may have become a hostile witness because of influence from the outside.

A History of Controlling Behaviour

Ivan Saincic, Chanelle’s father, claimed in a statement that Nico Henning was the only person who could gain from his daughter’s passing. About 18 months before her murder, she filed for divorce from her husband and requested maintenance and financial support for her legal fees.

He continued by claiming that at the time his daughter was killed, Henning did not believe there was a chance the child would end up with anyone else but him. Henning filed an urgent application for the child’s custody during that time. Henning’s accusations that Chanelle was an unsuitable mother led to the child being taken away and placed in foster care for eight months. He preferred to see his son in foster care than to risk losing control of Chanelle and their child. However, despite his attempts, the child was ultimately given to Chanelle in December 2010.

Key Witness

While Gouws claimed not to have been involved in the killing during his trial, he later changed his story and blamed his companion. He claimed in the Pretoria High Court that Chanelle’s estranged husband had ordered him to kill her.

Gouws claimed that Nico Henning, known as “The Godfather,” had been a close friend for 23 years and desperately wanted custody of their son, who was then four years old.

Gouws and Ambrose Monye, a former Nigerian Olympian, were both found guilty of the murder. In December 2011, two other men—former police officer Gerhardus du Plessis and his associate Willem Pieterse—were convicted of the murder. They reached a plea agreement and are behind bars for 18 years.

Gouws sobbed bitterly and claimed being manipulated into planning the hit. He claimed that initially, Henning asked him to acquire information that would show Chanelle as an unfit mother. Later, he claimed, he was asked to set her up on narcotics possession. According to Gouws, Henning was prepared to spend R1 million to have his wife killed. Gouws claimed Henning bought a motorcycle for the murder and showed him Chanelle’s morning route to the nursery school.

Prosecutor Gerrie Nel questioned Gouws about why he had lied all throughout his trial and denied being involved in the murder. As a result of it being “the right thing to do,” Gouws claimed he was now telling the truth.

Gouws is the key to understanding why Chanelle was murdered. According to magistrate Desmond Nair, the evidence against Henning seems purely circumstantial. He continued by saying that he was aware that Gouws had been labelled as a liar and a perjurer, which meant that his testimony would need to be handled with more care.

Charges Dropped

Henning was released on an R10 million bond. On 10 October 2016, Henning exited the dock at the Gauteng High Court with a slight grin. Outside the court, he appeared relieved but declared he would not comment further. Piet van Wyk, his attorney, merely stated that they took note of the dismissal of the allegations. He said that the charges might be reinstalled at any point. Van Wyk asserted that despite being aware of the prosecuting team’s considerable experience, they have every reason to believe they are well-prepared and have done their homework.

The news of the charges being dismissed surprised the journalists since they anticipated spending the upcoming weeks listening to testimony on what caused the mother’s ice-cold murder. Judge Eben Jordaan was simply advised by veteran prosecutor Gerrie Nel—who is renowned for refusing to give up on a case—that the State was unable to proceed at this time and had to withdraw the charges.

This means that Henning is off the hook (for now). Another wealthy person managed to seemingly get away with murder.

Original Author: Robyn Knox • September 12, 2022

Sources

Chanelle killer: Her husband made me do it (timeslive.co.za)

State drops charges against Nico Henning (ewn.co.za)

Case against Nico Henning postponed (ewn.co.za)

Case against Henning’ merely circumstantial’ (ewn.co.za)

Henning accused to make full confession (ewn.co.za)

Henning killers to be sentenced (ewn.co.za)

State drops charges against Nico Henning (ewn.co.za)

Chanelle’s father blames husband for murder (iol.co.za)

Is this why Nico Henning walked free? (iol.co.za)

Cellphone evidence in Henning case (iol.co.za)

https://www.enca.com/south-africa/top-five-sa-murder-cases-involving-spouse

Oscar Pistorius To Be Released In 2023 For “Glowing Behaviour” - General Advice (general-advice.com)

CSI TV. Are You Ready for Reality?

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 08:22:31 GMT

CSI TV: Are You Ready for Reality?

Television shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Bones, and Criminal Minds are very popular, and many people believe they have a good understanding of what it means to be a crime scene investigator. Eager watchers will yell at the TV about the apparent murder weapon and the inattentive cop who missed the blood stain on the carpet. But, while these shows might present some true-to-life crime scene analysis, they often show more fiction than fact.

First things first: On TV, CSI stands for Crime Scene Investigators, but in the real world, these experts are actually called Crime Scene “Analysts” or “Technicians”, and they usually have a background in forensic biology or forensic science .

TV shows have to keep up their ratings; as a result, we get drama.TV execs are motivated to glamorise the world of crime scene investigation, and sometimes the things they put out there are not even true. Forensic biologists and crime scene analysts on TV interview witnesses and chase down suspects. Then randomly, they hold a kidney while discussing the case with the pathologist in the middle of an autopsy; this is inaccurate.

The crime scene analyst’s real job mainly involves studying the crime scene, carefully writing notes, taking pictures and collecting evidence for examination in a lab. Crime scene processing is an invaluable step in the crime-solving process. Every bit of evidence, every hair, fibre and suspicious-looking twig must be photographed, gathered, packaged, labelled and placed into evidence. You never know what might add value to the case.

Crime scene analysis might not sound as exhilarating as hurdling over fences to pounce on no-gooders. However, who wants to do that much cardio? These technicians shine in the more detail-oriented, cautious work where accuracy and delicacy are essential. Forensic reports help the detective and the state prosecutor to prosecute the baddies. On the other hand, sloppiness, broken chains of custody, or noncompliance with protocols are tools used by defence attorneys to undermine any valuable evidence.

One of the biggest illusions of murder, mystery and whodunnit TV is the amount of time it takes to conduct evidential tests. The leading character demands the tests done, “stat”, and results turn up instantly. Crime scene analysis can take weeks, even months, to complete. DNA samples can take many hours of lab work to process, and they may not even get a result because the sample is too small or contaminated. Unlike on TV, crime-solving is not instant, but it may take weeks, months, years or even decades to solve a crime.

Hollywood usually zooms past these parts of crime scene work because watching a centrifuge spinning around for an hour wouldn’t be much fun. Still, anyone considering becoming a crime scene technician or forensic analyst should know that getting results requires time and patience. However, with patience, the information the analyst finds can be the key to cracking a case wide open.

There have been significant advancements in the quality and capacity of crime scene evidence technologies. However, there are still limitations. Also, consider that not every laboratory in South Africa will have access to the same technology and that damage and maintenance issues may be a reality.

No matter how many crime shows you’ve watched or how significant the special effects are, nothing on TV can prepare you for the brutal reality of an actual crime scene. Crime scenes can be horrifying and traumatic to witness. Not everyone can handle the exposure of that kind of thing. Those who can take it are changing lives. Professionals in the field get used to being on crime scenes, and the work is so rewarding that they overcome discomfort in their search for answers.

The field of forensics is fascinating and essential in bringing about justice.

The next time you binge-watch your favourite crime show, thinking that you should start a career in forensics because you “would have discovered that body buried in a shallow grave”; remember there is a lot more to being a crime scene technician or forensic analyst than you see on TV.

Original Author: Robyn Knox • August 2, 2022

Sources

How Accurate are Crime Shows on TV? Debunking 7 Common Myths | Rasmussen University

CSI Careers: How Real is TV | CCU

Crime Scene Evidence Transfer in Real Life vs. TV Shows - Superior Bag

TV Shows and Our Perception of Crime - INKspire

True Crime Documentaries And Tv Shows Essay Example (400 Words) - PHDessay.co

Clearing Your Name- How Forensic Evidence is Being Used in the Johnny Depp Defamation Trial

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 10:55:44 GMT

A claim of defamation

Celebrity stars Johnny Depp and Amber Heard were in a controversial defamation tria l in which Johnny Depp sued his ex-wife Amber Heard for $50 million for losses he incurred after an article she released stating that she was a “ domestic abuse survivor ” after her divorce from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” actor in 2017.

Depp filed the lawsuit in Virginia, USA. “Generally speaking, the elements of defamation are: (1) publication of (2) an actionable statement with (3) the requisite intent.” Fox & Mughal (2020). The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners adds that such a statement was made on an unprivileged occasion. It is the responsibility of the judge and jury to decide whether the elements have been proven.

The op-ed was written for The Washington Post in which Heard described herself as a "public figure representing domestic abuse." Depp was not named in the article, but despite this, he claims the article cost him lucrative acting roles including being cut from the sixth instalment of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series.

The trial, which started on the 11 of April 2020, had seen forensic evidence being presented as a tool for convincing the jury that this case was more than an argument of “he-said-she-said” but a trial of hard evidence proving whether or not Ms Heard was guilty of defaming Mr Depp.

In the article, she talks about being in an abusive relationship shortly after her marriage to Depp ended. Depp is implied to be the abuser, causing major backlash from the entertainment industry and the public at large. In the wake of the “Me too” movement, people were quick to stand by Heard.

In an attempt to restore his reputation, Depp decided to take Heard to Court. In this case, Depp seeks to prove that Heard was not the sole victim of their toxic relationship and that not only did he not physically abuse her, but that he was the victim of domestic abuse.

The evidence, in this case, included witness statements, photographs, voice recordings and expert testimony presented by both parties. Heard’s attorneys introduced photos showing injuries to her body, including scars on her arm that were seen at a red carpet event, and redness around her eye that she said was after Depp hit her with a phone. However, there had been some uncertainty raised over the photos by Depp’s team saying that the images had been doctored by Heard and therefore questioning the genuineness of her abuse claims.

Heard’s team presented a make-up kit by cosmetics brand Milani Cosmetics . She said she used the make-up to cover up her bruises. However, that particular make-up pallet was proven by the brand, to only have been released in 2017 while Heard claims she used the kit around 2014 to 2016. In support of Depp’s claims that not only did he not assault Ms Heard, but that he was the victim of physical abuse, his team supplied audio recordings of some of the aggressive exchanges between Depp and Heard. Depp told the court he recorded his altercations with Heard to remind her of what was said during their arguments. In one of their arguments, Heard speaks of striking Depp. "You didn't get punched; you got hit. I'm sorry I hit you like this, but I did not punch you.” Heard said. This evidence supported Depp’s claims that his ex-wife did assault him.

Expert witnesses testified in the trial. Dr. Shannon Curry, a forensic psychologist, told the jury that she believes Amber Heard has borderline personality disorder which according to the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” people with this disorder display symptoms such as anger problems and a distorted concept of themselves. These symptoms may speak to Heard’s lashing out and her decision to have the article published.

Dr. David Spiegel, a psychiatrist, called by Amber Heard, said that Johnny Depp has "consistent behaviours for someone who is a perpetrator of intimate partner violence."

These expert testimonies helped the jury to understand the frame of mind and possible motivations for certain behaviours or actions committed as well as whether or not a person can be fully accountable for their actions. One of the most crucial expert witnesses was Michael Spindler, a forensic accountant who said, based on sound calculations, that Depp had lost around $40 million in earnings following Heard’s article. This evidence supports Depp’s claim that his earnings are being affected by the statements made by Ms Heard.

Forensic evidence proved to be essential in this case. The opinions of the expert witnesses, the photographs and the tape recordings guarantee that the jury formed a clear picture of the whole case and allowed them to make a fair decision.

After six weeks of testimony and three days of deliberation, the seven-person jury delivered its verdict. The jury made a unanimous decision to find both parties liable for defamation, although appeared to side more closely with Depp, awarding him $15 million in damages, while awarding Heard $2 million in damages finding that former Depp attorney Adam Waldman had defamed her.

In South Africa, three elements must be present in order for a person to succeed in a claim of defamation. These elements include a wrongful statement, an intention to make a defamatory statement, and that statement must be published. Alisha Naik et.al (2021).

“South Africa’s landmark online defamation case occurred in 2013 (Heroldt v Wills), which saw Heroldt seeking an interdict against Wills for posting a defamatory Facebook message about him. The gist of Wills’ post was that Heroldt was an unfit parent due to his alleged substance abuse.” Law for All (n.d) The post was published, with false information, to the public with the intention of damaging Heroldt’s reputation. There was no evidence to prove the statement was true and the judge ruled that Wills had to remove the post and pay heavy legal fees. Law for All (n.d).

How To Become A Forensic Technician In South Africa

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 04:28:00 GMT

In this article we will explain the difference between a forensic technician and scientist.

For every person the road to a career in forensics is unique. Some law enforcement officers’ love for forensics is born out of years on crime scenes. Others are born with a desire to have a career in this field and some simply stumble upon a forensics career because of their love for analysing data.

For forensic technicians, it’s all about evidence collection. From reconstructing a crime scene to analysing phone records. For forensic scientists, this career stems from science.

What is a forensic technician?

Forensic technicians or criminalists are found both in the private sector and in law enforcement. This is a broad term that refers to a few different fields within forensics. These can be grouped under the following main categories:

Forensic science: these individuals aspire to work in the Police Service's Criminal Record Centres or Forensic Science Services Division. This career path focuses specifically on the reconstruction of a crime scene, lab technicians who aspire to work with forensic biology or working to verify facts or documentation in a police investigation.
Forensic biology: these technicians aim to work in either the private or public sector’s laboratories that take on forensic work. They can work either primarily with DNA, Chemistry or they can focus on forensic document examination.

Both the lab technician or crime scene technicians collect crucial physical evidence to connect their findings to a victim and/or perpetrator.

How to become a forensic technician in South Africa?

Through Law Enforcement

You can move into a career in forensics by joining the South African Police Service. Your years of experience with SAPS, combined with a forensic qualification can open the doors to become a forensic technician.

To become a police officer in South Africa:

1. You can apply to SAPS either by means of becoming a police official through the South African Police Service Act or as a civilian employee. The primary difference between the civilian and the police official is that the latter works in the field rather than in administration.

2. In order to apply for either one of these positions you must pass a psychological assessment test and have at least matric (NSC). You will also need to pass a physical fitness test.

3. You can study to become a forensic technician prior or after you are employed by SAPS.

Understand that terms and conditions regarding recruitment and careers applies

Through a qualification:

You can study to become a criminalist and then directly apply at the South African Police Service's Criminal Record Centres or Forensic Science Services Division.

What to study towards forensics:

1. You will need to complete or have completed your matric with good grades in mathematics and science.

2. You can then study towards a qualification starting on NQF5, this is equivalent to a first year bachelors degree. For Forensic Science, you should have had Mathematics, Communication and Physical Science in matric.

3. Once you have completed the above, apply for the NQF 6 in Forensic Biology, you will be required to complete the Forensic Biology Elective of the NQF 5.

Forensic technician salary in South Africa.

Once you have completed the above mentioned steps for forensic technician in the field of forensic science you can expect an average yearly income of R127,793* depending on the years of experience that you have acquired and relevant Terms and Conditions of the potential employer.
As a crime scene investigator with the above mentioned completed you can expect an average yearly income of R242,667*.
As a DNA expert, with the above mentioned completed your average yearly income can be around R269,370*.

The difference between a forensic technician and forensic scientist in South Africa.

The primary difference between a forensic technician and scientist is the handling of evidence. Where the technician collects and documents evidence, or analysis documentation. The forensic scientist applies scientific methods (experiments) to build further on a case. This combination of science and forensics creates the forensic expert.

These experts include medical examiners, pathologists and microbiologists, to name a few. Unlike the technician, the forensic scientist does not often go to a crime scene itself, but rather helps analyze collected evidence to individualize such evidence with the aim to connect it to a person.

You can read more about the study path to become a forensic scientist in our previous article here .

Forensic scientist salary in South Africa

Forensic investigator salary in South Africa ranges around R307,075* per year.
Pathologist and medical examiners can earn over a million rand per year*.
Forensic analysts: can earn around the R282,299* mark yearly depending on their experience level.

We are seeing more and more forensic disciplines emerging, which means that job opportunities in this field are expanding. Thanks to the technologically advanced times we live in today, we are seeing better data and analysis filtering into forensic fields. It’s an exciting time to explore a career in forensics! Explore our qualifications to help you towards a career in this field.

Resources:

South Africa Police Recruitment - www.how2become.com
Forensic salaries South Africa - www.salaryexpert.com
Paycale - Payscale.com/research/ZA/Skill=Forensics/Salary
Career Opportunities in Forensic Science - By Susan Echaore-McDavid, Richard A. McDavid: ISBN-13: 978-0-8160-6156-3

* Salaries referenced to in this article are indicative only and subject to change

The VBS Scandal

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 04:36:00 GMT

Link to Original Story: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2020-06-18-vbs-bank-heist-arrests-whos-next/#gsc.tab=0

The world has never been as connected as it is in the modern-day. Everything we do is online and therefore trackable.

Thanks to this technology, alleged corruption like that of Jacob Zuma, VBS bank and the EFF could be exposed in the finest detail. In this article, we look at the lead up to how South African citizens were defrauded out of around 2 billion rand. This includes a capture of the case’s current status and insight on the fraud examination process.

Background

In 1982, the Venda Building Society (VBS) bank was established by the Venda Homeland Government. Initially the bank was a small financial institution without the bells and whistles of a national bank like FNB, ABSA and Standard Bank. VBS’ main priority was to help communities to invest through the Mutual Banks Act of 1993.

The Mutual Banks Act of 1993 requires that Mutual Banks be regulated by the Reserve Bank. Within their management system, depositors become shareholders with voting rights. This exact structure led to the initial doubts around VBS bank.

In 2016 the bank granted Jacob Zuma a loan of around R7 million to pay back his debt for the upgrades on his Nkandla home. During this same period, Zuma became one of the bank’s major shareholders. This changed the small regional bank to a national bank overnight.

Shortly after this, ANC-controlled councils in Limpopo and one in Gauteng started depositing money into VBS bank. These funds were then redirected to bank executives like Mphephu Ramabulana, politicians and 52 other implicated individuals .

In 2018 the bank collapsed, unable to pay its customers.

What’s Happening Now?

At the beginning of this article, we mentioned the power of technology in the modern world. It is thanks to contemporary connectivity and crafty fraud-examination techniques that the movement of funds and those who authorised them could be investigated.

In the recently released report by advocate Terry Motau and law firm Werksmans, two key factors were brought to light. It is now evident how the finance officials at councils were stopped from asking questions regarding the transfer of funds to VBS bank. Included was how these funds were distributed and finally channelled to Julius Malema and deputy EFF president Floyd Shivambu. The report also revealed how these two spent the money on personal luxuries .

The chairperson of VBS and Vele Investments, Tshifhiwa Matodzi, was first arrest on the 17th of June 2020. Matodzi was charged for manipulating the bank’s financials to hide its true state. Followed were 8 others who were charged with money laundering, theft, corruption and fraud .

What is the fraud examination process?

Our Certified Fraud Examiner, Nick Olivier, explained that in essence, the standard fraud investigation procedure would include receiving the complaint and conducting a preliminary investigation to determine if there was merit to inspect any further. If additional investigation is warranted, a file is opened, and the investigation is planned with both witnesses and victims being interviewed.

Running parallel to this is the identification, preservation, collection and examination of evidence in order to prove that elements of the crime are under investigation. It is either at this point or possibly at an earlier stage that identified suspects are interviewed. Depending on the mandate or scope of the investigation, a criminal case should be registered with the South African Police Service.

The opening of a criminal case does not prevent a victim from initiating a civil case against the perpetrators who caused a loss, in order to recover the ill-gotten gains.

Sources

https://www.news24.com/citypress/News/what-is-vbs-mutual-bank-everything-you-need-to-know-2 0160922

https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2020-06-18-vbs-bank-heist-arrests-whos-next/#gsc.tab=0

https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/business/2018-10-10-venda-king-drawn-into-vbs-mutualbank- drama/

https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2018-10-10-r2bn-looted-from-corrupt-rotten-vbs-bank-saysreport/

https://ewn.co.za/2020/06/17/from-bank-heist-to-arrests-a-timeline-of-the-vbs-scandal

Update: How Important Is Forensic Evidence In South Africa

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 06:48:00 GMT

The Van Breda-Murder case

One of the most exciting things about forensic science is its ability to reveal the untold truth. Like the saying goes; there is your version, my version and then there is the [scientifically proven version].

Nick Olivier, Pretoria based Forensic Investigator highlights this in the use of forensic science in South African courts. The more questions the court has about the true events of a case, the more value it places on forensic evidence.

In our previous post , we discussed the importance of evidence in a crime. Now we will highlight these subjects using a real case scenario, And show you, as Nick mentioned, how forensic science can play a vital role in the outcome of a case.

The Van Breda-Murder case

Overview:

In January 2015 emergency response received a call from Henri Van Breda. He requested for medical assistance and informed the operator that his family had been attacked by an intruder with an axe.

His father Martin van Breda was the managing director of Engel & Völkers in Australia. Martin’s impressive businessmen ship, including ventures like Netstar, had provided a prosperous and comfortable lifestyle for the family. At the time of the murder, the family resided in the prestigious De Zalze Wineland Estate.

Of the 5 family members both parents, Martin and Teresa were killed along with their eldest son Rudi. The Breda’s daughter and youngest, Marli survived but was severely injured during the attack. She later made a full recovery. Henri ‘escaped’ with minor injuries.

The Trial:

The case took a whopping 9 months from the time of arrest and first court appearance to the trail in the Western Cape High court. None the less the prosecution was skeptical from the onset about Henri’s version of events. From his minor injuries to the crime scene, investigators found too many inconsistencies with what Henri had reported and what the forensic evidence revealed. The case was made that Henri himself had killed both his parents and brother with an axe before attempting to murder his sister Marli.

What Forensic Evidence Reveal About The Case:

The primary evidence used to build the case aimed to answer the question of whether Henri had indeed killed his family or was it an intruder as he claimed?

This was achieved by analysing his behaviour before and during the night of the murder. Gathering evidence to establish Henri’s position within the family. Collecting forensic evidence from the crime scene and compiling a plausible motive for Henri to have killed his family.

Early on in the case, investigators established that Henri had a drug problem. They interviewed his potential dealer and also found records where he was institutionalised in 2014. This was significant because of the correlation between drug and alcohol abuse and violent crimes.

Crime Scene Evidence:

Sergeant Marlon Appollis and his team found that there was no forced entry into the Breda’s home the night of the attack. The Breda’s property was also in a 24-hours monitored security estate. To further strengthen this, investigators also noticed from the onset that valuables like electronic devices were not taken.

During the trial, the state revealed that there was evidence that Henri had tampered with the crime scene. His cellphone records showed that he had made an unsuccessful call to his girlfriend at 04:00. Shortly after he searched for emergency services. Two hours elapsed before the call was made.

This arose suspicion, why had it taken so long to call for help. Although Henri had said that he had fainted after the attack. The state had evidence that proved that he tampered with the evidence in this time instead along with inflicting wounds on himself to mislead police to believe he had been in an altercation. Further, the wounds were made with a knife rather than with an axe, which was the primary weapon used on all of his family members.

Blood Spatter Analysis and Autopsy:

Police captain Marius Joubert who analysed the blood spatters concluded that the crime scene had been tampered with and was inconsistent with his statement. According to Henri, he was hiding in the bathroom when his brother Rudi was attached. But after analysing the blood spatter on his shorts and socks. The case was made that he had been “in close proximity to the source of blood when force was applied”.

Nick adds that the place where the axe was found after the attack, where the victims are lying and how the blood splatter spread can reveal the position of the attacker when the murders took place. "You can, for example, derive where the attacker was if the victims were lying down or were on their knees when they were attacked, whether or not there was a long struggle before they were killed, how long it took to kill the victim and how tall or strong the attacker is."

The autopsy report by Dr Daphne Anthony showed that Martin was taken by surprise as he had no wounds relating to defense and also had a blow to the back. Again, this was inconsistent with Henri’s statement that his father had attacked the “masked intruder” while he was paralyzed in the bathroom.

DNA (DeoxyriboNucleic Acid):

Lieutenant-Colonel Sharlene Otto the chief DNA analyst for SAPS tested 216 samples collected from the crime scene. From there she could identify Martin and Teresa’s DNA from scrapings taken from underneath Henri’s nails.

Importantly the state analysis also found no unknown DNA at the crime scene. This along with the lack of empathy sown by Henri during the emergency call and during the trial itself finally debunking the intruder claims in Henri testimony.

On May 21, 2018, the evidence against Henri Van Breda was overwhelming and Judge Siraj Desai had no reason to doubt the state’s findings. Henri was charged with 3 counts of murder, one of attempted murder and obstruction of justice for lying to the police.

Resources:

1. News 24 - van-breda-tampered-with-crime-scene-state-alleges-in-indictment

2. CTV News - south-african-man-23-found-guilty-of-axe-murders-of-family

3. IOL- five-things-to-know-about-the-henri-van-breda-axe-murder-case-24987359

Understanding Forensic Careers Through Case Examples

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 13:39:00 GMT

The Case Of Oscar Pistorius

A forensics career in South Africa can at times be quite a fickle matter. What we mean by this is that setting out your career path with a single job title in mind might not always be possible. The forensic landscape in our country is constantly transforming.

To give you a better understanding of what a forensic career ‘might’ look like we decided to use real crime examples. From these cases, we will highlight some of the career paths and main fields that you can aspire to.

If you missed our outline of the different fields of forensics in our previous post. View it here for a better understanding, before reading on.

In this article, we will focus primarily on the manner which certain evidence was collected and presented in court during the trial. The purpose is to highlight forensic fields in South Africa and not used to give an opinion on the case itself.

In the early hours of February 14th, 2013 Oscar fired 4 bullets from his 4mm parabellum pistol. The bullets traveled through the wooden door of a separate toilet section in his bathroom, killing Reeva Steenkamp. She was a 29-year-old law student and model

dating Oscar at the time.

The police were called to the scene and arrived shortly after the first responders. This allowed them to do a preliminary evaluation of the events leading up to the murder shortly after the incident took place. They drew conclusions and presented them in court a few days later to help determine Oscar Pistorius’s bail application.

The primary role of forensics in law enforcement is this; to apply scientific methods to evidence collected in order to link an individual or object to the incident scene in a manner acceptable to be presented in court . Once the evidence is presented as exhibits during a trial, the court decides if it were sufficient to prove an accused guilt.

The Crime Scene:

During the initial part of the investigation, the crime scene technicians were primarily involved under the command of the lead investigating officer Hilton Botha. The crime scene (Oscar’s house) was sealed off and a police photographer started taking photo evidence.

First, was Reeva’s deceased body that lay at the bottom of the staircase. Then Oscar, covered in her blood from carrying Reeva downstairs to the first responders. They then focused on the path leading up the stairs. And finally, the bedroom, bathroom

and toilet cubicle were photographed.

After documenting the scene, the police started the collection of physical evidence from the scene. The door which Oscar shot through, the bat that was used to break open the door, the cell phones of both Reeva and Oscar. The firearm and bullet casings that were shot to name a few.

All the physical evidence was bagged and marked in order for the Forensic Science Laboratory to analyse and interpret their findings in context of the scene.

The Physical Evidence:

Because of the dispute on Reeva’s position behind the door at the time of the shooting. A Blood Spatter Analyst was called to the case. Expert Colonel Ian van der Nest compiled his report from investigating the crime scene itself and by being present at the autopsy. He then presented his findings during the trial. Blood Spatter Analysis is a specialized forensic field and requires specialized training as well as experience in the field.

The next crucial part of the case was the shooting itself. Captain Christian Mangena interpreted at which angle the bullets had gone through the door. This is known as ballistics in forensics and it used to measure the trajectory of a projectile unit like a

bullet (bomb or missile).

In this case, the court already knew that Oscar had fired the gun that killed Reeva from his statement. They, therefore, used ballistic evidence to determine the victim’s position upon impact to form part of the state’s argument for premeditated murder.

In order to be able to scrutinize the relationship between Oscar and Reeva. The state needed to access all the data on 2 apple iPads, a MacBook Pro laptop as well as 2 cell phones found at the crime scene. In order to do so, they tasked the then head of

detectives, Lieutenant-General Vineshkumar Moonoo, Colonel Mike Sales and Captain Francois Moller to firstly access the devices with the help of the manufacturer and then analyse the data using an XLY forensic tool. This is referred to as Digital

Forensics . Finally, they had to present their findings in court which consist of all the WhatsApp correspondence, internet activity and phone calls.

Biological and Psychological Evidence:

Let us look at the Oscar case through the lens of forensic psychology . Colonel Gerard Labuschangne, then head of the South African Police Service’s Forensic Psychology section along with his superior called for a reading of Pistorius’ psychological state.

Gerard allegedly made the decision because there were no eyewitnesses and he foresaw that Oscar’s defense would lodge a ‘psychological defense’.

While Oscar was in hospital, a doctor took scrapes from under his nails for Forensic DNA , reviewed his body for any evidence like scratches and bruises. Then took urine and blood samples to test for any alcohol or drug use . This is referred to as Forensic

Chemistry .

The forensic pathologist Prof Gert Saayman examined Reeva’s body. He found that the bullets that had been used were expanding bullets. These bullets are designed to cause maximum damage when fired. He also noted that she was shot in the hip, arm and her head. Other injuries were also documented like the smaller abrasions and flesh wounds on her back and buttocks. He also examined her clothes and stomach content all of which he later presented his findings to the court.

Evidence and The Court:

The case of Oscar and Reeva is a fantastic example of how evidence is used in court to scrutinize the intention of the perpetrator, contributing events leading up and during the crime itself. From the device data, the court could see a glimpse into the

relationship between Oscar and Reeva. From the crime scene, forensics teams could recreate theories of how Reeva was killed. The autopsy showed the timeline and scrutinized the cause of death.

Resources:

1. Oscar Pistorius - www.saflii.org/za/cases

2. Being a forensic scientist in South Africa - businesstech.co.za

3. Oscar trial - www.enca.com

4. Oscar Pistorius Trial Evidence - www. BBCNews.com

5. Chase Your Shadow: The Trials of Oscar Pistorius - By John Carlin

6. Routledge Handbook on Victims' Issues in Criminal Justice - edited by Cliff Roberson

7. Bloody Lies - By Thomas Mollett

8. In Crime's Archive: The Cultural Afterlife of Evidence - By Katherine Biber

Understanding Fields of Forensic Science in South Africa

Tue, 05 May 2020 14:45:00 GMT

In our previous post , we discussed the study paths of forensic professions in South Africa. We explained the difference in studying forensics versus entering the industry through field experience.

In this follow-up post, we will take a look at the main fields of forensic science. But first, let us take a look at the long relationship between forensics and law.

Using Forensics Science in court

In ancient Roman times, people who broke the law was ‘tried’ during the daily forum. This forum included community members made up of scholars, politicians, and merchants. The word 'forensic' stems from the Latin word 'forum'. What we know today as forensic science refers to the application of scientific disciplines to investigation in preparation of a case for court purposes.

Whether you are interested in working in a forensic laboratory, collecting evidence from a crime scene, conducting forensic investigations or working at forensic pathology services, the main objective of all forensic professions is to conduct an examination of evidence in order to aid in the findings in legal proceedings.

The legal system itself is a large and complex body of knowledge. That has consequently birthed a family of forensic careers. Take for example a situation where the police find an unknown substance in a person’s possession. A forensic laboratory first needs to analyse the substance and compile a report indicating that the substance fits the molecular profile of a drug. Only then will the police be able to prove any charge of drug possession against this person.

Corroborating evidence, applying scientific methods to investigations, and proving the elements of an alleged crime forms the basis for the use of Forensic Science.

Fields of Forensic Science

Now that we briefly discussed the history of forensic science and its application to the investigation process, we will look at the different fields of forensics science. These fields can be grouped into three main services.

Crime Scene Technician Services

This involved the collecting, preserving, and documenting of all evidence from the crime scene. The collection of evidence including fibres, hairs, fingerprints etc. Photography is used to capture and reconstruct a scene. Evidence storage is where the collected evidence is held for months and even years. These tasks are mainly the responsibility of the police but other forensics professionals like fraud examiners in the private sector would apply the same principles with the main aim to show that the chain of custody remained intact and that the evidence was not contaminated or tampered with. This is an extremely important function that can make or break a case. Think back to Oscar Pistorius case and how the mistreatment of evidence caused controversy during the court proceedings.

Physical Forensic Science Services

Trace evidence, firearm, and ballistics, questioned documents, toolmarks and fingerprint-examination are all critical to link physical evidence collected at the crime scene to a specific victim or suspect. For example, linking a shell casing with a firearm found in the possession of a suspect or to verify that writing on an important document belongs to a specific person.

Biological Forensic Science Services

From all three services, this one provides the most powerful conclusions in a case by applying scientific methods relevant to chemistry, biology, anatomy, physiology. An autopsy of a body or analysis of the skeletal remains could determine the gender, identity, and time and possible method of death. The analysis of bodily fluids can provide a Forensic DNA profile that can be compared with the DNA of the suspect or victim.

Today forensic science can use DNA analysis to assist in solving so-called ‘Cold-cases’; historical cases that were not resolved before DNA analysis became a valuable tool for investigators. Take for example the case of the American serial killer John Wayne Gacy. Out of the 27 bodies the police found buried underneath and around his house, 7 were not identified. In 2017 investigators have used DNA evidence to identify one of the seven remaining unknown victims.

Resources:

1. Oscar Pistorius - http://www.saflii.org/za/cases/ZAGPPHC/2016/724.html

2. Being a forensic scientist in South Africa - https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/281091/what-its-like-being-a-forensic-scientist-in-south-africa/

3. John Wayne Gacy: Victim Is Identified After Four Decades - https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/19/us/john-wayne-gacy-victim-identified.html

4. John Wayne Gacy Serial Killer Timeline - https://www.chicagotribune.com/history/ct-john-wayne-gacy-timeline-htmlstory.html

Forensic Science Careers In South Africa

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 06:28:00 GMT

Are you interested in a career in forensics?

Charles Manson, Ted Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer, John Wayne Gacy, these names have completely reshaped our understanding of the human psyche. They have brought us terror, they have sparked horror stories, and they have cultivated new fields in forensic science. But would we even know of these names if it was not for the teams of investigators and forensic scientists who cracked these cases? The unique individuals who had the ability to look beyond the horror of these cases and bring the facts into full view of the court.

Forensics scientists are a unique breed of individuals and our mission is to foster that desire and send you in the right direction to start your career in this field, especially in South Africa. In this post, you will find information on different fields of forensic science, the study path of each and where they can be studied in SA.

In South Africa, a forensics education looks a little different from what it does abroad. Unlike other parts of the world, South Africa only has post-graduate programs for Forensic Scientists. University of Cape Town (UCT) defines the career path of a South African Forensic Scientist quite well as “a scientist in one of the disciplines of science who applies his or her knowledge to ‘forensic cases”.

What is Forensics Science, and why does it matter?

Forensic Science is the application of a scientific method to the investigation of a criminal investigation of which the result can be presented in a court case to support the prosecution or defence in a criminal trial. The fields of forensics draw from a variety of science disciplines including physics, chemistry, biology to name a few.

Forensics Science has been a key part of criminal investigations and convictions for decades. From fingerprint classification created by Sir Edward Henry, commissioner of the Metropolitan Police of London in the 1890's to the first comparison microscope created by American physician Calvin Goddard to distinguish which bullets came from various casings all the way to the first crime lab by Edmond Locard in France during 1910. Forensics Science has come a long way since analysing bullet casings and fingerprints and today there are over 14 different fields of learning, including DNA analysis and Digital Forensics.

How to enter the discipline of a forensic science in South Africa

There are three paths to a career in forensic science in South Africa, the fist is through an undergraduate qualification to become a forensic technician ( National Certificate Forensic Science on NQF 5 ). The second is through a postgraduate degree after an initial degree that we will discuss below, the third is through experience (primarily from police work). We will explain the variations to each option, but before we look at studying options let's first look at required high school subjects.

School Subjects:

In order to set up your career, you will need to complete your matric with preferably high marks in Biology, Science, and Mathematics. The only exception to this rule is for those that wish to complete the National Certificate in Forensic Science with at least 8 years of experience in the field. Keep in mind that even with this option you will still need to have completed at least grade 10 or 11.

Where to study undergraduate degrees:

After you have completed your schooling you can now apply for a degree in either biology, biochemistry, chemistry, psychology, medicine, finances or business. You can use this quick search tool to search for all programs available in SA. Before choosing your degree first have a look at the lists of fields below and their study paths to make sure you choose the right qualification that will allow you entry into your preferred postgraduate.

Forensic fields and postgraduate degrees:

Once you have completed your degree you can now focus on a postgraduate. In order to help you make the right decision, we have given you a list of fields along with their career patch and institutions where they have programs available.

Examples of forensic studies include:

1. Forensic Science: focuses on scientific principles grounded in molecular biology to analyse a scene and/or evidence. You must first establish foundation knowledge of science through a degree before specialising in forensics.

Study path: start with a BSc or BSc with Honours in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology or physics. Once completed you can then apply for specialty training with the SAPS in order to work in one of their forensic laboratories.
Specialised Study programs: National Certificate in Forensic Biology on NQF 6.

2. Forensic pathology: unlike science, pathologists work with cadavers (dead bodies) to examine the cause of death in the case where the cause of death is unknown, known as an autopsy. Beyond this, the pathologist can also be called to a murder scene by the police, research evidence on cases and teaching undergraduate medical students and lawyers.

Study path: This is an extremely specialised position that first required a Medical Degree (MBChB), 4-5 years’ experience and then studies towards a Master Degree in Forensic Pathology (M Med Path Foren).

3. Forensic Psychology: much like the other fields there are no undergraduate programs for forensic psychology. But unlike the other career paths, this one poses a bigger challenge because the title of a forensic psychologist is not a registered category by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) .

Luckily this does not mean that the field does not exist in SA, the HPCSA simply forces you to register for one of the following categories which are Clinical, Counselling, Educational, Industrial and Research.

Study path: You will first need to finish a Master Degree in Clinical Psychology. Once registered you will then need to work closely with law firms to work with them on cases to build up your reputation in the field of criminal psychology.

Due to the rise in interest in this field, there has been a call on the HPCSA to include categories for forensics. You can follow the news here.

4. Forensic DNA: these biologist work in laboratories focusing primarily on biology to complete forensic examinations. The primary role of this career path is the ability to analyse material collected and make findings that can be used in the judicial process (in a court).

Study path: Thanks to an initiative by the DNA Project and the University of the Free State you are now able to study an undergraduate BSc degree in Forensic Science.
Specialised Study programs: National Certificate in Forensic Biology on NQF 6.

5. Fraud Investigation: this field of thought requires more analytical and research ability and is less grounded in science. These investigators help businesses find fraud for example in insurance claims.

Study path: a fraud investigator must begin with a strong financial or law qualification like a Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Audit or Law etc. and then complete further education to become a Commercial Forensic Practitioner or Certified Fraud Examiner .
Specialised Study programs: Occupational Certificate Fraud Examiner on NQF 8.

After you have completed your studies you can apply for employment in either the private or public sectors.

Resources:

1. What it's like being a forensic scientist in South Africa: www. businesstech.co.za

2. What is forensic psychology: www. forensic-psychologist.co.za

3. Forensic Analyst or Scientist: www.gostudy.net/occupation/forensic-analyst-or-scientist

4. Studying forensic Science at UCT: www.forensicmedicine.uct.ac.za

5. Outsourced Learner Management : www.forensics4africa.com/qualifications

6. Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: www.acfe.com

7. Institute of Commercial Forensic Practitioners: www.icfp.co.za

8. www.educations.com/search/south-africa

Crime does not pay even after death as the Constitutiunal Court orders corruption proceeds be paid back from deceased estate.

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 07:54:00 GMT

"ConCourt orders corruption proceeds be paid back from deceased former ANC official's estate" By Riaan Grobler from News 24 on 31/03/2020 @ 17:32

The Constitutional Court last week ordered the full proceeds from corruption be recovered from the deceased estate of Yolanda Botha, who was an ANC official in the Northern Cape.

Botha, who served in Parliament's social development portfolio committee, died in December 2014 from complications of skin cancer , News24 reported.
The Constitutional Court upheld an appeal by the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) against a Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) ruling that the estate of the late Yolanda Botha only pay R750 000 of R1.1 million, which was the full value of renovations the Trifecta group of companies effected on her Kimberley house. The NPA's Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) was seeking to recover the money as proceeds of corruption, the NPA said in a statement. The ConCourt ruling means the full amount can be recovered from her deceased estate. Botha, Trifecta director Christo Scholtz and senior ANC leader John Block faced charges of fraud, corruption and money laundering related to leases for government buildings. The Trifecta group of companies entered into a number of agreements with Northern Cape government departments in which rentals or rental space were grossly inflated. Botha was the head of department of the Northern Cape's Department of Social Development from January 2001 until April 2009, when she received the payment from Trifecta. The Constitutional Court at the time ordered that Botha pay the full amount into the Criminal Assets Recovery Account (CARA) within a period of six months, failing which her house would be sold by way of public auction. 'Unprecedented scale of corruption' According to the NPA, Botha had embarked on an "unprecedented scale of corruption" by awarding tenders to Trifecta for the lease of government premises. Trifecta would acquire well-constructed but rundown buildings within the Northern Cape, then renovate them to lease to government at exorbitant rates, resulting in the State incurring a loss in excess of R26 billion. In September 2009, Trifecta started renovation work on Botha's family home that she legitimately acquired in 2004 by means of a bank loan. When Botha was charged by the State, along with the others, for offences of tender corruption and other offences, the AFU applied for preservation and forfeiture orders against the renovations and shares. This was granted by the Northern Cape High Court. "However, the High Court erred at forfeiture stage when it forfeited the entire house. This occurred while Botha was technically not found guilty as she passed away before the criminal case was concluded. Botha's defence to the civil forfeiture was that she had repaid R411 000 to Trifecta for the renovation 'loan' agreement and that this amount ought to be deducted from the R1.1 million, and she persisted with that when she approached the SCA," NPA spokesperson Bulelwa Makeke said. "The NDPP countered that the so-called loan was a sham and an afterthought after Botha realised that she was under investigation by Parliament and the police. However, the SCA agreed with Botha's argument in relation to the deduction of the R411 000 and agreed with the High Court that her shares in Trifecta were forfeitable." 'Excellent extrapolation against corruption' The NDPP approached the Constitutional Court, relying on the legal principle that proportionality ought not to apply to proceeds of unlawful activities. All eight justices agreed and forfeited the entire R1.1 million to the State. "The NDPP strongly believes that the judgment is an excellent extrapolation against corruption as well as settling the legal point that proportionality does not apply to proceeds of unlawful activities," Makeke said. Last year, the SCA upheld a judgment authorising the NPA to confiscate R59.8m belonging to the Trifecta Group . Block was found guilty of corruptly using his political influence to ensure that Scholtz's Trifecta group of companies were awarded lease agreements with various Northern Cape government departments between 2006 and 2008. News24 previously reported that, in exchange, Block received gratifications, including two payments of R228 000 and R500 000. They were found guilty and convicted for corruption and money laundering in the Northern Cape High Court in Kimberley. Both are serving 15-year prison sentences.

SIM swop fraud rises by 104%

Sat, 05 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

5 January 2019

Cape Town - There has been a massive increase in cyber-related crimes specifically targeting online and mobile banking apps, warns IRS Forensic Investigations. Other such crimes include phishing, malware, and SIM swops.

“The SA Banking Risk Information Centre (Sabric) reported that South Africa lost a quarter of a billion rand through these type of banking app frauds in 2017. “What is really concerning, however, is that Sabric reported an increase of over 100% in the following year’s study from January to August 2018 in respect of SIM swop fraud in particular,” said IRS director Chad Thomas. SIM swop incidents doubled from 4040 from January to August 2017 to 8254 over the same period the following year. This is a 104% increase according to Sabric statistics. National police commissioner General Khehla Sitole said at the release of the 2017-2018 financial year crime stats, cybercrime would be added to crime statistics this year. He said the police were gathering more expertise and knowledge about cybercrime, and travelled to China and Thailand to learn more about it. “The cybercrime strategy is at an advanced stage,” said Sitole. Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo confirmed to the Weekend Argus that the police were developing the cybercrime strategy and it would be integrated into their Organised Threat Analysis strategy. In 2017, Sabric said there were 13438 incidents across banking apps, online banking, and mobile banking which cost the industry more than R250million in gross losses. While incidents from January to August last year showed a 64% increase, this is compared to the same period in 2017. Mobile banking incidents showed an increase of more than 100%, with gross losses of R23593631 and online banking incidents showed an increase of 44% with gross losses of R89368722. Banking app incidents increased by 20%, with gross losses of R70156364. Kalyani Pillay, Sabric chief executive, said criminals were very skilled at using social engineering to manipulate their victims into divulging their personal or confidential information. “They capitalise on the fact that not all digital banking clients are digitally literate and exploit this vulnerability. “Using technology, coupled with social engineering, criminals can gather sufficient information to impersonate victims, bypassing bank security protocols. “South Africans using social media are at risk of phishing and should constantly be on the alert for activity which seems out of the ordinary. “People should not rely solely on the preloaded internet security which comes standard with their computers and their operating systems – they should invest in more advanced security systems that are upgraded regularly – this extra cost is well worth it in the long run,” said Thomas. The Weekend Argus interviewed three victims who had their internet banking illegally accessed with SIM cards swopped and in two incidents, ported to a different cellular network. One man had R3.1m taken out of his business account when a sim swop was authorised without his consent. A 78-year-old man almost lost his life savings when a SIM swop that he also didn’t authorise was done, a second attempt was made to take money out of his account after he got his number back. However, he managed to freeze his bank account. Another man was preyed on twice by cybercriminals. Once in 2016 when they took R1.2m and in December last year. He is still trying to recover R82 000 from the bank. https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/western-cape/sim-swop-fraud-rises-by-104-18694770

Dundee Municipality gets placed under administration

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

14 December 2018

Durban - The embattled Endumeni Local Municipality (Dundee) has been placed under administration after a report in October by the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) revealed that senior officials and a councillor were involved in fraud, corruption, maladministration, and irregular, unauthorised and fruitless expenditure. The report emanated from the Mdledle Incorporated forensic investigation into maladministration at the muni- cipality.

Yesterday, the department said the beleaguered municipality was placed under administration in terms of Section 139 (1) (b) of the Constitution. In a statement yesterday, Cogta MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the council had been embroiled in internal strife which saw the entity go without a mayor and speaker for a “considerable” period of time. She said the October report implicated some of the most senior elected leaders and appointed officials at the municipality. The council was given 21 days within which to process the report and advise the MEC of remedial action to be taken. To date there was no response and the report appeared to have gone missing, she said. Cogta had supplied another copy to the council, which was expected to speed up the opening of criminal cases against all those implicated. The council was also expected to fast-track the disciplinary process and usher in a new era of good and clean governance. “We are implementing this intervention because we want to see positive change in the lives of the people and how this municipality is governed. Nothing will change unless all those implicated in the corrupt dealings that have crippled this municipality are arrested and barred from dealing with public money,” Dube-Ncube said. She said the administrator would be announced soon. The Mdledle investigation exposed payments to individuals disguised as donations to religious organisations, which were found to be non-existent, and payments made to business entities to purchase equipment in contravention of the municipality’s own policies. Other issues highlighted were fraudulent subsistence and travel claims, the irregular appointment of service providers, and excessive and irregular expenditure on security services. Former Endumeni mayor Siboniso Mbatha said the move was Dube-Ncube’s attempt to wrestle the municipality from the IFP. He said no action was taken against wrongdoing during the ANC’s tenure at the municipality. “Around 2014/15, the ANC was in charge of the municipality and during that time R7.1million for the municipal infrastructure grant was returned to Cogta and nothing was done to those responsible,” Mbatha said. The DA’s Ifri Bedassi said he hoped the administrator would implement remedial action. https://www.iol.co.za/dailynews/dundee-municipality-gets-placed-under-administration-18493571

Deaths due to tainted herbal medicine under-recorded

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

University of Adelaide

A University of Adelaide forensic pathologist is warning that potentially harmful substances found in herbal medicines may be playing a bigger role in deaths of 'health tourists' than previously thought.

Professor Roger Byard is calling for closer checks during post-mortems for the presence of drugs and adulterants that originate from herbal remedies. "There is a possibility that harmful materials found in herbal medicines are either contributing to, or causing, deaths of overseas travellers," says Professor Byard. 'These factors should be considered in all medical and legal cases involving recent overseas travel, particularly to Asian destinations." As part of health and wellness tourism, Western travellers to many Asian countries now often visit herbal centres. Free health checks may be performed at these centres and herbal products are offered for sale. They offer hope to a growing number of people looking for a cure for their health problems. "This type of health tourism is based upon learning about and consuming traditional medicinal herbs and is an important part of the worldwide medical tourism industry," says Professor Byard. "Patients wrongly believe that they are being treated without using harmful chemicals or drugs. Studies have found some herbal remedies have been adulterated with approved or banned drugs and even toxic heavy metals. Adulterants have been linked to a range of side effects of varying severity including hyper tension, heart problems, psychiatric disorders and in some instances even deaths. "The composition of many of these products is uncertain, there may be contaminants and pharmaceutical additives, and their interaction with prescription medications is unpredictable," says Professor Byard.

"However, the potential role and impact of herbal medicines, and possible adulterants within them, is usually not considered in medicolegal cases. "Forensic facilities may be missing the presence of harmful or toxic substances when carrying out post mortem assessments not because the substances aren't there but because pathologists may not be looking for them. "When considering cases in which a person has died after taking herbal medicines sourced from overseas, forensic pathologists need to take extra care to consider the possibility that adulterants have played a role in the person's demise," says Professor Byard. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181025103344.htm

Story Source: Materials provided by University of Adelaide . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Rachael Farrington, Ian Musgrave, Christine Nash, Roger W. Byard. Potential forensic issues in overseas travellers exposed to local herbal products . Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine , 2018; 60: 1 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2018.08.003

Forensic report uncovers rampant corruption at Endumeni Municipality

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

16 October 2018

Durban - Fraud, corruption, maladministration, irregular, unauthorised and fruitless expenditure involving a councillor has been uncovered at Endumeni Local Municipality in Dundee, north of KwaZulu-Natal. These revelations were contained in a report tabled at the municipal council by KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) department on Monday.

The report follows a forensic investigation into irregular expenditure at the municipality in terms of Section 106(1)(b) of the Municipal Systems Act (Act 32 of2000). In a statement, Cogta MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the investigation, by Mdledle Incorporated, exposed payment of donations to individuals under the pretext that these were donations to religious organisations. These organisations were found to be non-existent. Some payments were made to business entities to purchase equipment in contravention of the municipality’s own policies; fraudulent subsistence and travelling claims; irregular appointment of service providers in violation of the municipality’s supply chain management procedures; excessive and irregular expenditure on security services among other things. “This forensic report is proof of our commitment to good and clean governance. As government we are committed to ensuring that our municipalities spend each and every rand on the real needs of communities. We are fighting maladministration, fraud and corruption in municipalities wherever and whenever these occur. All reported allegations are duly investigated without fear or favour and Cogta does regular follow-ups on the progress with implementation of its recommendations,” Dube-Ncube said. She said the allegations that led to the investigation were directed at some of the most senior elected leaders and appointed officials at the municipality. She said the council has been given 21 days within which to table the report before full council, deal with specific details contained in the report and thereafter report to her office on the remedial actions. https://www.iol.co.za/dailynews/forensic-report-uncovers-rampant-corruption-at-endumeni-municipality...

Using bloodstains at crime scenes to determine age of a suspect or victim

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

American Chemical Society

From the spatter analysis made famous in the TV show Dexter to the frequent DNA profiling of CSI and the real cases covered in the FBI Files , blood tests are ubiquitous in forensic science. Now, researchers report in ACS Central Science that a new blood test, which could be performed at a crime scene, could help determine the age of a suspect or victim within just an hour.

Despite their usefulness, current blood tests that analyze samples from crime scenes have limitations. Many tests cannot be completed in the field, some take a long time, and others can destroy the sample. Typically, DNA and fingerprint analyses both require that the person of interest is included in a database. And even if the person's information is in a database, some characteristics like age cannot be determined by conventional DNA profiling or fingerprint analysis. To estimate age, one would ideally monitor something that changes over the course of a lifetime. Some components of blood (particularly the structure of hemoglobin that gives blood its characteristic red color) fit the bill. A technique called Raman spectroscopy provides information about the chemical composition and molecular structure of material. Thus, Igor Lednev and colleagues wanted to see whether they could use this method to analyze blood components to determine the ages of victims and suspects. By performing Raman spectroscopy on samples from human donors, the researchers looked at samples from three different age groups: newborns (under one year), adolescents (approximately 11 to 13 years of age) or adults (43 to 68 years old). The researchers could distinguish between the groups -- adolescent and adult samples were differentiated with greater than 99 percent accuracy, and there were no errors in the identifications of the newborn samples. Because the method is a non-destructive technique that requires no sample preparation, the authors say this could be a useful on-site addition to the current cohort of available tests. In the future, they plan to refine their model to provide more specific ages, not just large age ranges, of the donors. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/06/180620094835.htm

Story Source: Materials provided by American Chemical Society . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Kyle C. Doty, Igor K. Lednev. Differentiating Donor Age Groups Based on Raman Spectroscopy of Bloodstains for Forensic Purposes . ACS Central Science , 2018; DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.8b00198

How important forensic evidence?

Fri, 05 May 2017 13:16:00 GMT

The courts have high regard for the value to forensic evidence says Pretoria based forensic consultant and Certified Fraud Examiner Nick Olivier. "Forensic evidence is – amongst other things - based on the premise that someone leaves a trace of themselves behind every time they touch something at the crime scene.

Still all sorts of testimonies are heard by the court and they don't necessarily attach more value to a forensic testimony than they would any other. "If the court is sceptical about the testimony of the accused or a witness then the forensic evidence will be of a greater value as it can either support or disprove their version of events, because the analysis thereof is based on scientific principles," Nick says.

Nick agrees that forensics can play a vital role in the outcome of a case. "There are determined calculations, for example, in connection with speed and the direction of blood spatter, and these recognised calculations can be used to make trusted conclusions."

What can forensic evidence reveal about a crime?

"Because blood has certain qualities the grouping, pattern and distribution of a splatter can be a good indication of the movements of the victim and the directions in which both the victim and perpetrator went, the sequence of events, where the crime took place, what kind of weapon was used and much more," Johan says.

He says the analysing of blood splatters can help the courts to determine if the testimony of a witness or the accused is true or not.

Nick adds that the place where the axe was found after the attack, where the survivors were found, where the victims are lying and how the blood splatter spread can reveal the position of the attacker when the murders took place. "You can for example derive where the attacker was, if the victims were lying down or were on their knees when they were attacked, whether or not there was a long struggle before they were killed, how long it took to kill the victim and how tall or strong the attacker is."

A post mortem examination could shed even more light on the crime, Nick adds. The nature of the victims injuries, how deep the wounds are, whether or not there are signs that they fought back also add a great deal of insight.

The Locard's principle is one of the most important principles in forensic science and states that the perpetrator of a crime will bring something into the crime scene and leave with something from it, and that both can be used as forensic evidence. This evidence can include DNA left behind on the murder weapon as well as blood splatters on the victim's or perpetrator's clothes."

What role do the police play?

In South Africa there are strict rules about how the scene of a crime must be approached and how evidence must be processed. If protocol is not followed, the credibility of the evidence is undermined. The court can decide that a piece of evidence is not of much value to the case or they can decide to dismiss it altogether because the correct process was not followed, Nick says.

"A quick response from the police is often crucial to the success or failure of an entire investigation, because when the crime scene is left unprotected it is vulnerable to contamination. Contamination happens when evidence is tampered with or when crucial evidence is removed or destroyed."

VIEW THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Body of 19th Century Serial Killer H. H. Holmes Exhumed Near Philadelphia

Fri, 05 May 2017 06:36:00 GMT

The body of a 19th century serial killer is being exhumed in suburban Philadelphia at the request of his great-grandchildren, who hope identifying his remains will quell centuries-old rumors that he conned his way out of his execution and escaped from prison. A Delaware County judge gave the go-ahead to exhume the remains of Dr. H. H. Holmes in a court order dated March 9. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia, which owns Holy Cross Cemetery in Yeadon where the body was located, confirmed the exhumation was to take place but it wasn't immediately clear when the process started. WCAU-TV in Philadelphia showed footage for a front-end loader removing dirt from a grave at Holy Cross Cemetery on Friday. Holmes, the pseudonym of New Hampshire-born physician Herman Webster Mudgett, is believed to have killed an undetermined number people at his hotel of horrors during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. It featured a bizarre labyrinth of windowless rooms, secret passageways, false floors, trapdoors, and a vault. Most of the rooms had gas vents, which were controlled from Mudgett's bedroom. Many of the rooms were soundproof and could only be locked from the outside. But it was the murder of his business partner in Philadelphia that led to his conviction and hanging in 1896. The exhumation and DNA analysis will be performed by the Anthropology Department at the University of Pennsylvania. The great-grandchildren — John and Richard Mudgett and Cynthia Mudgett Soriano, all of California — submitted DNA samples to the university, according to their petition seeking the exhumation. Judge Chad Kenney's order states that the remains are to be re-interred in the same grave after testing, whether or not they belong to Holmes.

John Mudgett's wife said by phone from California Wednesday that the great-grandchildren weren't commenting. They're related to Holmes through his son with his first wife, Clara Lovering. Holmes was executed in a public event at Philadelphia's Moyamensing Prison on May 7, 1896. Witnesses said he maintained his cool to the very end, even telling the executioner not to rush. The New York Times reported it took Holmes more than 15 minutes to die. Holmes had left specific instructions for his burial. He was to be laid in a pine box and the box was then filled with cement, buried 10 feet in the ground and covered again with cement. Despite it all, rumors started swirling that he'd managed to swap another convict to be executed in his place, and he went free. Holmes was the subject of the 2003 best-selling book, "The Devil in the White City," by Erik Larson. "I have absolute confidence the body in that grave is Holmes," Larson said in an email to The Associated Press on Wednesday.

SOURCE:
ForensicMag

U.S. Mexican Border Crossings

Fri, 05 May 2017 06:30:00 GMT

DNA Deep Dive into Ancestry of the Desert Dead

A humanitarian tragedy continues to unfold along the U.S.-Mexican border. As American border security has tightened since the 1990s, a “funnel effect” has pushed people seeking to sneak into the U.S. into more remote areas, particularly the inhospitable Arizona desert. Thousands have died from heat and exposure, and occasionally homicide. Hundreds remain unidentified. But a new deep dive into the DNA of these nameless dead has indicated they have disproportionately greater Native American ancestry rather than European genetics, a team reports this week in the journal American Anthropologist . The work makes new forays into how much traditional DNA databases can tell us about the most desperate, and desperately unknown, persons of all. PULLING ANCESTRY FROM CODIS The paper looks at 238 unidentified persons and 118 identified people based on the 13 CODIS markers in their genetic profiles. Those profiles were compared to a reference samples of some 1,200 predominantly indigenous people, as well as approximately 1,000 people of mostly European background, along with nearly 100 African-Americans. Ancestry is not supposed to be encoded in the simple set of CODIS markers, which was intended in the 1990s to be a series of simple individual identifiers without any other information attached. But some of the authors, including Bridget Algee-Hewitt of Stanford University, dropped a bombshell analysis last year in the journal Current Biology : CODIS markers do indeed tell a story of ancestry that is just beginning to be understood . The latest exploration of the unidentified border crossing (UBC) dead is external validation of those revelations, said Algee-Hewitt. The DNA showed these dead of the Arizona desert, examined at the Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner from 1972 to 2013, fit a trend. The UBCs were mostly from native populations in the southernmost states of Mexico. "Identification bias" is shown in the ongoing years of anthropological work, said Algee-Hewitt. Increasing numbers of people with more European genes are successfully identified, while the indigenous people continue to go unnamed. Because the people were generally disenfranchised and desperate in life, their deaths left an unanswerable riddle for authorities on both sides of the border. The complex racial history of Mexico complicates what is happening along the border, added Cris Hughes, an anthropologist at the University of Illinois who is another of the authors. “In Mexico, indigenous populations are concentrated in southern states, and poverty is more prevalent in the south,” said Hughes. “There is a deep distrust between indigenous peoples in Mexico and their government, founded on a history of oppression by those in power.” Further breakthroughs were also made by Algee-Hewitt, well-known for her work in craniofacial measurements and bone aging through pelvic observations. The Stanford anthropologist told Forensic Magazine that applied craniometry also backed up the DNA findings— preliminary results of which were presented at the annual February meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences . “The quantity of Native American ancestry has increased in recent years, is distributed along a Northwest to Southeast geographic cline, and is greatest among individuals for whom ID status is low and identification-related information (e.g., place of birth or origin) is incomplete,” said Algee-Hewitt. The work is ongoing, she added. ‘THE DESERT DOESN’T DISCRIMINATE’ These people die along the border mostly as they seek specific blue-collar jobs in the United States, according to Bruce Anderson, a forensic anthropologist at the Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner, and one of the authors. Nearly 3,000 people have died along the border over the last 18 years, Anderson told Forensic Magazine . The environment is unforgiving, even among the younger males who attempt to make the crossing. “The desert doesn’t discriminate based on ancestry,” Anderson said. “It’s always been a deadly crossing, and it’s only gotten more deadly since the INS changed their policies in the 1990s.” Anderson and others have demonstrated in a series of papers how the so-called “funnel effect” of tightening border security in California and Texas had driven smugglers and the immigrants to the more desolate deserts of Arizona—and increased danger. A separate 2014 investigation in the Journal on Migration and Human Security found that most border crossings were made during the summer months. That was exactly why most of the hundreds of deaths annually were due to hyperthermia and other heat-related environmental causes, they found. But often the cause is not known—especially if only bones are left, Anderson said. The populist campaign of Donald Trump that won the U.S. presidency last November was based on a promise to build a wall along the border with Mexico, at Mexico’s expense. Anderson said knowing the realities of the smuggling along the border has shown that a complete wall will be an impossibility, due to geography and the persistence of people seeking a way under or around it. The end result of building a new wall will be more bones out in the desert, Anderson added. “If you put a wall between a desperate person and their goal, they will find a way around it,” said Anderson. “Probably more deaths will occur.”

SOURCE:
ForensicMag

Saliva At Crime Scenes Could Reveal Gender

Mon, 28 Nov 2016 09:03:00 GMT

Assist investigations in real-time

Forensic investigators could get a head start on tracking down suspects, using a new technology to assess saliva for gender, according to a new study.

The technique is part of a growing body of work at the University at Albany intended to assist detectives in real-time, using tools directly at a crime scene, right from the moment of discovery.

The researchers reported being able to determine gender with 94 percent accuracy, as reported in the latest issue of the journal, Analytical Chemistry .

“This would be done entirely on site with the use of a portable Raman instrument, all without risking any damage to the sample,” the authors write. “It would allow investigators to immediately develop a preliminary suspect or victim profile at a crime scene.”

Currently, saliva can be collected and then processed at a laboratory using intensive techniques. But that is time consuming, and it also potentially destroys the sample.

The Raman spectroscopy method, which essentially uses lasers to vibrate molecules and measured the scattered light, can be taken directly to the sample instead – and then used without destroying it, the scientists report.

The 48 samples assessed with the technique determined the chemical signatures that differed between males and females. They accurately identified the sex of 45 of the donors, they report.

Scientists at the school have been incrementally working toward a chemical toolkit for criminal forensics to deploy at scenes. Much of the work has been helmed by Jan Halamek, a biochemist focused on the chemical clues in bodily fluids. Halamek and his team have about a dozen papers recent published or pending on the forensic applications of the secrets held by bodily fluids. (Though Halamek did not take part in this latest paper).

Late last year, Halamek and his the team published a paper in the journal Analytical Chemistry in which they found the amino acids within a fingerprint were more than 99 percent accurate in determining sex, since females have higher concentrations of them. Earlier this year, the Halamek team published their findings on blood markers – how a single chemical marker in the blood – alkaline phosphatase, or ALP – not only indicates what age a person is, but also can determine how long ago a sample was deposited at the scene.

“It’s all about the biomarkers, looking for the attributes of a person,” Halamek told Forensic Mag earlier this year in an extended interview. “It’s pure chemistry.”

The latest saliva findings appear to further that concept – though more validation needs to be done on larger segments of the population, write the scientists.

“This study brings us one step closer to the successful completion of developing a universal method for the analysis of body fluid traces at a crime scene, and should be considered a proof-of-concept since it still needs to be expanded to realistic crime scene samples of saliva on common substrates,” they add.

SOURCE:
Forensic Mag

Officer Training to Improve Crime Scene Processing

Thu, 20 Oct 2016 11:25:00 GMT

Crime scene technicians are responsible for photographing, looking for latent prints, and collecting evidence at crime scenes. Because of crime volume, crime scene technicians do not respond to all crime scenes. Many departments rely on specially trained officers or public safety aides to handle crime scene processing of less violent offenses, such as motor vehicle thefts and burglaries of homes and vehicles. Training of officers for this time-consuming and methodical work is often a limited, one-time event. Refresher courses on crime scene processing are typically not offered, providing minimal assurances that officers are following protocol or handling evidence properly. Without periodic training, officers are also not exposed to changing technology or more efficient methods of crime scene processing and evidence collection. Challenges of Crime Scene Processing
Every crime scene is different and involves decisions such as whether to process evidence at the scene, collect evidence for later processing at the crime laboratory, or request assistance from the crime scene unit. When deciding how to approach latent print processing, factors that may affect the method include weather conditions, contamination of evidence, and whether the evidence is on a porous or nonporous surface. Weather becomes an issue when it is raining and the officer is faced with processing a soaking-wet vehicle. The best course of action is usually to tow the vehicle to a police facility to allow the vehicle to dry before processing. If this is not an option, the second-best option is to ask the victim to call for processing when the vehicle is dry. If neither of these options is available, the officer is often limited to processing items inside the vehicle for latent prints and possible DNA. Touch, wear, or saliva DNA can often be found in a burglarized vehicle. DNA should be the officer’s first focus. Collecting it would involve taking a sterile swab lightly dampened with distilled water and swabbing the steering wheel, turn signal, gear shift, and edges of the rearview mirror. Inside the vehicle, there may be other miscellaneous items that the officer may decide to swab such as drink cups or cans, cigarette packs, or cell phones. If the victim is available, the officer should ask him or her to carefully look inside the vehicle to see if they see anything that does not belong to them, and therefore may have been left by the perpetrator. After carefully collecting possible touch DNA swabs, the officer should process the following locations for latent prints:

Dash and console
Rearview mirror and all windows
Metal portion of seatbelts
Miscellaneous items in the console, on and under the seats, and on the floor
Items contained in glovebox and trunk

The decision whether to process items found inside a burglarized home or vehicle often hinges on whether or not the item is porous or non-porous. Porous evidence consists of items that, when touched, will absorb fingerprint residue like a sponge. Examples would be unfinished wood, paper, cardboard, and fabrics. Non-porous evidence consists of items that, when touched, will preserve the latent print on the surface unless disturbed. Examples of these would be glass, metal, and plastics. Non-porous items can be processed at the crime scene using black or gray powder and a fiberglass brush. More advanced methods of chemical processing for non-porous evidence include superglue fuming and enhancement with powder or fluorescent dyes. If the officer suspects the object may have belonged to or been touched by the suspect, the best decision would be to collect and preserve the evidence for latent print processing in the crime laboratory. Porous items usually respond better to chemical processing methods, such as iodine or ninhydrin, than the application of fingerprint powder. Vehicles that have been exposed to rain or heavy humidity will often have damp miscellaneous paper items scattered in the vehicle or in the glove box that will need to be dried before processing. There are some chemicals, such as Oil Red, which develop prints on damp paper more efficiently than ninhydrin or iodine. Paper items that have recently been touched react well to processing with magnetic powder; however, as a basic rule officers should collect paper items and submit the evidence for processing in the crime laboratory. Specially trained patrol officers and public safety aides play a crucial role in solving crimes by assisting the crime scene technicians with less violent offenses. Periodic training in crime scene processing can assist these officers, which is beneficial to any police department. Citizens in the community who are victimized expect law enforcement to respond to burglaries and motor vehicle thefts and identify suspects. The more efficient officers are in processing evidence, the more time they will have to answer other calls.

SOURCE:
In Public Safety

DNA Leads to Arrest in 20-year-old Double Murder

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 11:27:00 GMT

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Although Jan Cornell never stopped hoping for closure in the brutal 1990 murders of her daughter Robin Cornell and roommate Lisa Story, she calls the arrest of a suspect nothing short of a miracle.
Cape Coral police Chief David Newlan announced Wednesday that Joseph Zieler, 54, of North Fort Myers, was arrested for the murders of Story and Cornell. “It was like winning the lottery of justice,” Cornell said. “Every prayer, every word, everything, came full circle.” Cornell was at her boyfriend's home on the evening of May 9, 1990, watching television when she fell asleep. When she returned home she discovered that her daughter, 11, and roommate, 32, had been killed inside the apartment. Zieler was in Lee County jail on a felony aggravated battery charge for shooting his son with a pellet gun in August when a DNA test matched him to evidence found at the scene of the murders 26 years ago. Zieler, who was 28 at the time of the double murder, will face five charges, including two counts of sexual battery, one count of burglary and two counts of first degree murder. He is scheduled to have his first appearance for these charges Thursday morning in Lee County court. Jan Cornell said there was no way to describe how she felt when police came to her home Monday to give her the news. “It was a miracle,” she said. Cornell said she has no idea who Zieler is, has no connection and no information on the man who has been implicated in the double murder. “I’ve looked at every outlet to see where there might have been a connection,” she said. Cornell credited the 2009 law that requires DNA testing for those arrested for felonies for helping break the case. “When you are looking for someone who killed people you loved you just get more hope,” she said. ”If (Zieler) never got in trouble this case would never be solved. This is the beginning of the end.” The Lee County Sheriff’s Office notified Cape Coral police when Zieler's DNA received a hit on CODIS, Newlan said. Further DNA from Zieler was obtained and tested by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The results came back positive with evidence collected in the apartment at Courtyards of Cape Coral Condominiums. "We got him," Newlan said. “This brings closure to the family. Twenty-six years is a long time.” The arrest closes the city's longest open homicide. The case has drawn attention over the years airing on America’s Most Wanted three times as well as on other similar crime shows and in dozens of publications. Police officers and others involved in the case shared Cornell’s elation. “To tell you the system works is the best thing ever,” said Christy Jo Ellis, chief investigator for the Cape Coral police. “I’m over the moon. It was so surreal when I got the phone call. I said, ‘Are you kidding me?’” Ellis said that the case is on track to being solved makes her feel great as she approaches the 25th anniversary of her police career, adding that she always believed the case would be solved. “It’s just phenomenal,” she said. “We have the lock, we just need the key.” She said Zieler's arrest was a welcome surprise. “This guy has been off the radar for 26 years,” she said, noting Zieler has been in the community the entire time, 20 years at his North Fort Myers address, seeing the yearly updates. “Because he had an arrest in 2016 and due to a DNA swab it just shows that the system works.” Barrett Walker, Ellis’ supervisor in the major crimes unit, said that the department is building a case. “Now we have to organize the case. We have other evidence,” he said, adding that Zieler has not confessed to the crime. “We still have a lot of answers we need to get to.” Walker said those who knew Zieler in the 1990s or knows him now need to contact the Cape Coral police. Steve Russell, the 20th Judicial Circuit State Attorney, said the arrest of Zieler and subsequent prosecution should give hope to victims’ families and fear to those who commit crimes that cases can be solved at any time. “The Cape Coal Police Department never let this go away,” he said. Newlan, Walker, and Ellis all stressed that the double murder was not a cold case and that it never became a case that languished. “A lot of detectives have kept in touch, different generations of law enforcement,” Newlan said. Walker cited the evidence-gathering chain from the initial investigation. “It makes us proud of what we were and proud of what we are,” he said. “They documented and preserved evidence the right way.”

SOURCE: MSN News

The Scent of a Crime: can traces of perfume crack the case?

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 06:45:00 GMT

Can traces of perfume crack the case?

The core tenet of physical evidence collection is that an offender leaves traces behind at a crime scene – while taking other traces with them. The concept is Locard’s Exchange Principle, and has been increasingly applied to fingerprints, body fluids, touch DNA, pollen, and near-invisible signs of contact. Could perfumes and colognes be the next clue? Key parts of chemical signatures are transferred by direct contact, according to a new study by University College London researchers in the journal Science and Justice . “While there is a lot of work in forensic science on transfers – for example, the transfer of fibers or the transfer of gun-shot residue – until now there has been no research on the transfer for perfumes,” said lead author Simona Ghergel, a doctoral student, in a UCL statement. “We thought there was a lot of potential with perfume because a lot of people use it. We know about 90 percent of women and 60 percent of men use perfume on a regular basis.” A series of volatile organic compounds are in a wide variety of common perfumes and colognes. Some of the most common are limonene, linalool, geraniol, eugenol, and coumarin. The UCL researchers concocted a test mixture that includes those key chemicals, as well as other assorted ingredients included in many scents. Samples of the test perfume were allowed to dry and “age” prior to the experiments – for as short as five minutes, to six hours or even seven days. Then they conducted a series of experiments to determine whether direct contact, or rubbing, could transfer the signature. The contact was as quick as one minute, and as long as an hour. Rubbing with a gloved hand lasted two minutes. The subject surfaces were then measured for microscopic traces by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The transfer depended on how strong the perfume was, how it aged, and how long the contact was. But transfer happened . Direct contact for just one minute left behind 15 components of the original 44 in the signature, they said. The drawback is – the evidence disappears after it is collected. It would need to be analyzed almost immediately, they said. “There might be a considerable time delay between the crime and the collection of the evidence, in addition to a delay from collection to the analysis of the evidence, which can make an accurate interpretation of perfume trace evidence difficult,” they write. Even though the proof-of-concept experiments won’t immediately translate to crime scenes, they contend they could eventually part of an important toolkit, particularly when it comes to sexual assaults. “Due to the close contact between the victim and assailant during sexual assault, fragrance analysis has the potential to be an additional forensic tool that could be used to demonstrate a contact has taken place, and potentially indicate thy type of contact made and the timeframe since the contact,” they contend. The potential for first measuring odor in textiles was proposed by a Polish scientist in 2003, in an industry journal. However, the scientist contended such analysis would require massive research to properly quantify.

SOURCE:
ForensicMag

The Dangers of Hidden Apps for Forensic Investigations

Mon, 01 Aug 2016 10:26:00 GMT

"Just because you don't see it, doesn't mean it's not there.."

Hidden apps are growing in popularity. While initially marketed as a way for teens to hide videos, photos, forbidden apps, and text messages from the watchful eyes of parents, the use of hidden apps is quickly expanding. Hidden apps are increasingly used for criminal activity. At the local level, they can be used as a tool to facilitate drug transactions, sexual assaults, child-porn, as well as data exfiltration and theft. On a much larger and more dangerous international scale, these apps can be used for recruitment purposes by ISIS and other terrorist groups. Because hidden apps are becoming more common sources of evidentiary data in criminal cases, it is essential that forensic investigators take the time to learn about them. Otherwise, key evidence could be missed. When it comes to hidden apps, awareness is critical. Forensic examiners must know these apps exist and how to find them. While there are many hidden apps on the market today, new ones are introduced virtually every day. A quick Internet search is an excellent way to stay current on what’s available and trending in the world of hidden apps. Along with knowledge of what’s out there, examiners must know how apps and data are being hidden to ensure they are not overlooked. Types of Hidden Apps There are three main ways to hide apps. Some users manipulate their phones to hide things in places where they don’t belong. Others use apps that are designed to hide other apps inside. Then there are “official” hidden apps (also known as decoy apps), which appear to do one thing while they are actually designed to do something else. One of the most popular hidden apps is the calculator app. These apps are fully functioning calculators with a twist. Once a password is entered, a new interface appears that allows users to access and store pictures, videos, documents or files that are otherwise hidden to someone reviewing data on the phone. A less technical, but commonly seen way to hide apps is for the user to create folders or nests of folders on their phone that appear to be harmless, and then to store data they wish to hide within that folder. They may even install an application that allows them to change an app’s icon so that it appears to be a different app on the phone. Hidden apps reinforce a valuable lesson in the world of forensics, just because you don’t see something initially, doesn’t mean nothing is there. While it is not realistic to expect examiners to stay current on each and every app, knowing they exist and might be installed is essential. During an investigation it is wise to consider a hidden app might be in use, which means a deeper dive is necessary.

SOURCE:
ForensicMag

DNA sampling joins the fight against rhino poaching

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 11:49:00 GMT

Efforts are underway to track down the international syndicates involved in the rhino horn trade, thanks to a new DNA system. This meant a rhino horn confiscated in Vietnam could be linked back to a crime scene in the Kruger National Park. “With this it will be possible to identify smuggling routes and more role players than just the poachers,” says Dr Cindy Harper, developer of RhODIS Rhino DNA system. She is also a director at the University of Pretoria’s veterinary genetics laboratory at Onderstepoort. DNA profiling would help law enforcement agencies find the trafficking route, the couriers, kingpins, and end users. One prosecutor dealing with rhino horn poaching cases welcomed the development. “The kingpin and the mastermind are the ones we should be prosecuting, and with RhODIS becoming available to international forensic scientists and investigators, we are getting closer,” Ansie Venter said. "We might soon be able to connect a horn in Vietnam to a poached rhino in the Kruger National Park. What an immense breakthrough.” Harper said it was introduced in 2010. The database contained information about more than 20 000 individual rhino. Countries using the system included Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, and Botswana. At a RhODIS Scientific Workshop held in the Kruger National Park recently, it was agreed that the system would form the basis for the international DNA testing of rhino and rhino products. DNA forensic scientists, law enforcement officers and investigators from countries including Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India attended the workshop. They were taken to a poaching crime scene in the park, allowing them to see first-hand the savagery inflicted on two rhino killed for their horns. Scientists participated in DNA sample collection training at the crime scene using the forensic sample kits developed for RhODIS. SANParks spokesperson Isaac Phaahla said they supported the collection of DNA as it was part of the criminal investigation. “We think our colleagues in the NGO sector concentrating on user markets are doing a sterling job,” he said.

SOURCE:
News24

Utilizing DNA Evidence Decades after Pitchfork

Tue, 12 Jul 2016 08:09:00 GMT

The news that convicted murderer Colin Pitchfork was denied parole was shocking. Not that he was denied, but that he was still alive. Certainly, the first case in history that utilized DNA evidence in a forensic context had to be a very long time ago. In truth, Pitchfork was put away 28 years ago. Back then, there wasn’t a single offender DNA database in the world. Now, they are standard in over 50 countries and expanding almost on a daily basis. We’ve gone through RFLP, Castro and the admissibility wars, Budowle and Lander and Nature Magazine , NRC I (and II), Dotson and Bloodsworth, and Simpson. We are even looking at the reality of performing DNA analysis in 90 minutes in police stations. DNA databases have been used to help convict Lonnie Franklin Jr., known as the Grim Sleeper, using familial testing, and have also been used to exonerate 300 innocent people and counting in the US alone. On this odd recognition of the Pitchfork conviction, it’s important to realize that the changes brought about by the integration of DNA technology into the world’s criminal justice systems have been systemic. Statutes of limitations have been altered and even eliminated to allow for more exonerations and to crack cold cases. The passage of legislation to create DNA databases has created one of our more effective crime fighting tools. But, the broadest impact of DNA technology has been conceptual. What started as a better piece of evidence has become a better understanding of the weaknesses in our system. Our concepts of quality forensic science, reliable evidence and trustworthy convictions have changed dramatically. Ultimately, that’s a very good change. I would even argue that our sense of responsibility to that system has changed. We can do more to protect the wrongly accused and the innocent victim, therefore we have the responsibility to do more. While original claims of DNA-based exonerations were met with skepticism and automatic objection, prosecutors now take a more thoughtful approach. But, while we should appreciate the relative lightening-like speed with which we have leveraged the benefits of DNA in a criminal justice system designed to move slowly, we should also recognize how far we have to go. Four hundred thousand untested rape kits nationwide? Seriously? It shouldn’t be news that the Grim Sleeper was convicted with familial DNA analysis. It should be standard operating procedure. Somewhat ironically I’ve spent the week in Manila, the Philippines with forensic DNA pioneer George Sensabaugh speaking to law and forensic science students about the impact that DNA has had on criminal justice systems since its introduction. In other words, none of my audience was alive for the Pitchfork conviction, and many weren’t even around when O.J. Simpson was declared not guilty. As I looked at the picture of Pitchfork on my PowerPoint slide, and talked about all the future applications of DNA technology that were contained in that one case, it struck me that our next responsibility is to keep the next generation of forensic scientists, prosecutors and defense attorneys inspired. Newness and novelty were great motivators for the scientists and attorneys responsible for DNA’s seismic impact over the last two decades. But DNA has been around long enough now for Colin pitchfork to qualify for, and be denied, parole. As a new generation of scientists and lawyers integrate into criminal justice systems throughout the world, it’s important to ensure that they are not just good scientists and lawyers. As emphasized at our conference in Manila, “science in the service of society,” must remain the core message of our educational efforts.

SOURCE:
ForensicsMag

Photographing Bloodstains: Bluestar Reagent

Thu, 07 Jul 2016 09:37:00 GMT

In late summer of 2012, police officers in a small, Midwestern town were called to the scene of a homicide. The caller indicated they had been exploring the creek in a wooded area on the north end of town and located a deceased male weighted down by rocks in the creek.

The victim had significant wounds to the neck that appeared consistent with a large, edged weapon. Further examination of the area revealed an approximately 20-yard blood trail that led back to a large pool of blood in a homeless camp next to the creek. Police located a machete in between two trees near the blood trail. Investigators did the best they could to document the trail of blood in the daylight; however, due to the length of the trail, they were unable to show it in its entirety.

Investigators returned to the scene after dark in an effort to obtain a photograph of the blood trail utilizing Bluestar Forensic latent bloodstain reagent, a luminol-based blood-visualizing chemical that causes trace amounts of blood to luminesce. The process of photographing bloodstains in an outdoor crime scene requires several important pieces of equipment and adequate personnel in order to capture the luminescence after the application of the chemical, while at the same time illuminating the scene adequately enough for the viewer to appreciate the composition of the crime scene. This list includes:

Digital SLR camera with a minimum of f/3.5 capability
Tripod
Cable shutter release cable or remote (for extended shutter times required)
One or more external flashes
Bluestar Forensic latent bloodstain reagent, minimum of two bottles of prepared solution in spray bottles
Enough personnel to operate camera, flashes, and spray bottles

Several factors about the use of a DSLR in low-light scenes should be kept in mind when utilizing this technique. First and foremost, the camera settings must be set to the widest aperture possible and the lens must be in manual focus mode—otherwise, in near total darkness, the camera will attempt to focus itself by emitting light from the LED on the camera, which in turn can ruin the image. Second, a tripod and a cable shutter release or remote shutter release must be used in an effort to eliminate movement from holding the camera by hand or even by depressing the shutter for an extended period of time. In this case, because the scene was located in a wooded ravine with very little ambient light and no moon, the final exposure required a 255-second time frame. Without the tripod and cable release, the image would likely have been blurry due to movement of the camera. Prior to beginning the exposure, ensure your focus is correct by illuminating the scene with a light source.

Next, in a large outdoor scene such as this, the use of external flashes is required in order to illuminate the area beyond what a single flash would be able to show. Keep in mind it is best to have those who are operating the flashes ensure they are standing out of view of the camera. The required flashes can be activated at any time during the exposure, but it is recommended to either fire the flashes at the beginning of the exposure or the end of the exposure to ensure you do not illuminate personnel who are applying the Bluestar through the spray bottles.

Finally, ensure those spraying Bluestar keep moving during the exposure for two reasons: 1) to maintain application of the chemical, ensuring the luminescence is visible for the entire exposure; and 2) to prevent any ambient light from illuminating them during the long exposure. Additionally, more than one test exposure is likely to be required in order to determine the proper number of flashes and the amount of time the shutter should be open, given the lighting conditions at a particular scene.

Keep in mind, this technique of illuminating blood evidence should only be used as a way of telling the story of the event, not as evidence of presumptive positive testing for the presence of blood due to the fact the chemical reacts with other substances, such as bleach.

All of the images were captured using a Canon EOS Rebel XS SLR digital camera with an 18-55mm IS lens. The scene was in the bottom of a shallow ravine in a heavily wooded area with very little ambient light other than that provided by a moonless night sky. This technique relied on the darkness in order to allow very long exposures, ensuring the Bluestar luminescence would be visible all the way to the end of the trail.

SOURCE:
Evidence Technology Magazine

Forensic Odorology Scientifically Validated

Tue, 28 Jun 2016 09:40:00 GMT

The dog sniffs the reference scent and then smells a series of human scents, one of which corresponds to the reference. If the dog recognizes the reference scent it lies down in front of the relevant scent; if the dog does not find a match, then it does not stop or lie down.

Odorology is a technique that uses specially-trained dogs to identify human scent. It is used in police investigations to establish that an individual has been at the scene of a crime. However, there is no international norm on how these dogs are trained. At the Centre de recherche en neurosciences de Lyon , researchers specializing in scents and their memorization have analyzed data, provided since 2003 by the Division of the Technical and Scientific Police (DTSP, Ecully) on dog performances in scent identification tasks. Their results show that, at the end of a 24-month training program, the dogs are able to recognize the smell of an individual in 80-90% of cases and never mistake it for that of another. These findings validate the procedures that are currently in use and should convince the international community of the reliability of this method. This work was published on 10 February 2016 in the journal PLOS ONE .

Odorology, or the science of smells, is a method of identifying human scents. It has been used in France since 2003 in police investigations to establish that an individual has been present at a crime scene. The method is based on the fact that each person has their own scent and relies on the powerful canine sense of smell (which can be 200 to 10,000 times more sensitive than that of a human being). It involves a long period of dog training. This technique consists in using a specially-trained dog to compare a human scent collected from an object found at a crime scene with scents from several people, including that of a suspect or victim. As the results of these tests are of critical importance for investigators, they need to be obtained through viable and reproducible methods. However, there are no internationally recognized norms for the training of these dogs or for their inclusion in investigations -- hence the occasional reluctance to treat their evidence as proof. By analyzing results collected since 2003 at the Division of the Technical and Scientific Police (DTSP, Ecully), researchers from the Centre de recherche en neurosciences de Lyon have succeeded in demonstrating the viability of the technique used.

During basic training, the German and Belgian shepherd police dogs must learn to make the link between two scents from the same individual through the completion of increasingly complex tasks. By the end of this training, the dogs are able to carry out identification exercises during which they sniff a reference human scent and then compare it with five different human odors, one of which is the reference scent. When a dog matches the scent in the jar to the reference one (which it shows by lying down in front of the correct jar) it is rewarded with a treat or a game. The human odors may consist of traces collected from an object that someone has touched or of a scent collected directly from a person. The analysis of the data obtained with the 13 DTSP dogs since 2003 shows that after they have learned the task's principles, 24 months of regular training is necessary for stable and optimal performances. At the end of the first twelve months, the dogs no longer made any recognition errors, i.e., they did not confuse the scent of one person with that of another. Furthermore, their olfactory sensitivity increased significantly over the training period: on average, after two years, the dogs managed to recognize two scents from the same person in 85% of cases. The remaining 15% of cases in which no match was obtained, were mostly the result of poor scent sampling rather than poor recognition. The researchers also found that German shepherds were better than Belgian shepherds, undoubtedly because they are more disciplined and attentive. At the end of their basic training, the dogs are able to participate in criminal cases and receive continuing training throughout their lives. In practice, each identification test is carried out by at least two dogs. Additionally, each dog performs at least two tests with the same panel of scents: the collected scent is presented either as a sample to be sniffed at the start of the task, or in one of the jars that the dog sniffs successively. Between 2003 and 2016, odorology was used in 522 cases at the SDPTS and helped to resolve 162 cases. In these criminal cases, the sampled scents were only a few hours or days old. The researchers now want to study how the dogs perform on older scents. Scent samples can in fact be stored in scent libraries over several years.

SOURCE:
ScienceDaily

Murders by Women Differ from Those by Men

Wed, 22 Jun 2016 06:57:00 GMT

Each homicide has a unique fingerprint of circumstances and motive, from drugs and alcohol, to financial reasons, to the intangibles of jealousy and mental illness. No two killings are exactly the same. Men kill more often, according to innumerable studies. But now a study looks at a population of women who kill – and finds the fatal scenarios almost always play out right within the home, and between close members of the family. Twenty years of Swedish homicides became the focus of the study, published recently in the International Journal of Forensic Mental Health . The 1,570 homicides committed by a single killer were split, as usual, between the 90 percent by men, and the 10 percent perpetrated by women. But men were more likely to kill strangers and acquaintances in unfamiliar locations. Women, on the other hand, most often kill intimate partners or family members in their own homes, according to the Swedish researchers. “The adult victims of female perpetrators were more often male and an intimate partner,” said Thomas Nilsson, a researcher at Sahlgrenska Academy. “The victims were often under the influence of substances at the time of the crime and they died mostly due to knife violence.” Some 80 percent of the victims of women killers were family members. About 50 percent of homicides committed by females victimized intimate partners. And nine of 10 female killers took the victims’ lives in their own home. The females were more likely to live under ordered social conditions, and to have sought assistance from social services or police. Women were more likely to be classified as having a severe mental disorder at the time of their crimes – and their actions were more frequently classified as manslaughter or infanticide (women were more likely to kill children).
Men, on the other hand, had more charges and convictions of murder or involuntary manslaughter by assault. “These results taken together lend support to a quite common prototypical scenario, in which a habitually abusive man, disinhibited by intoxication, initiates a spiral of escalating aggression that culminates in him being killed by his female partner,” the authors write. Sweden has among the lowest per-capita homicide rates in the world. For instance, California has nearly as many annual homicides (approximately 1,600 – 1,700 per year) as the Scandinavian nation reported over the two decades of the study.

SOURCE:
ForensicMag

Crime Scene Movements Reconstructed with Footprints

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 10:01:00 GMT

Footprints are a piece of impression evidence which can place a suspect at a crime scene, based on unique shoe sizes or patterns. An orthopedic student in Scotland investigated the possibility of identifying signature body movements off the tracks, using a 3-D motion-capture system, in a dissertation. Fernando Bueno Neves, of the University of Dundee, found that he could determine if a person was walking or running at a scene – but it fell short of trademark movements or gait, according to an announcement by the school. Eleven volunteers walked and ran with bare feet or shoes covered in artificial blood. A motion-capture system recorded the movements. Techniques to isolate and identify a person’s movements based on the impressions were limited – but the student said the pilot study could lay the tracks for further investigation. “Crime fiction has fascinated me since I was young, so I had the desire to know the limitation of actual forensic research and to recognize what investigators can achieve,” said Neves, who is completing a degree in applied orthopedic technology. “This was my first attempt to conduct a study of this scale, but I hope that this pilot might help to design new approaches in forensic science.” The work is important in the current world of forensics, said Sue Black, director of Dundee’s Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification. “This is a really interesting and incredibly timely project, given the current high level discussions being held with the Judiciary over the communication of forensic science within the courtroom,” the professor said. The United Kingdom isn’t the only country considering major overhauls of the way forensic evidence is used in the courts. A reevaluation of nearly all forensic disciplines started in 2009, with the publication of a National Academy of Sciences report questioning all manner of evidence. It has prompted an investigation by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Ten disciplines are being reevaluated – one of which is footprint evidence. Currently, the evidentiary value of footprints is best found in trademark signs of wear, characteristic fittings, injuries, or other unique aspects of shoes, according to the textbook Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation by forensic scientist Barry A.J. Fisher. Size, make and model, and tread pattern have less evidential value, Fisher adds. But markers such as a limp, injury, drunkenness, carrying a heavy object, or even certain gait patterns can be determined by podiatrists, the book contends.

SOURCE
ForensicMag

Ancient Egyptian Pigment Reveals Latent Prints in the Near-Infrared

Wed, 08 Jun 2016 13:53:00 GMT

Egyptian blue is the world’s first known synthetic pigment, used for thousands of years until the ancient recipe was lost after the fall of the Roman Empire. Now, researchers are recreating the pigment, and using its unique properties to help solve modern day crime. A team from Curtin University in Australia have demonstrated that the pigment actually glows in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum, which can be extremely helpful to investigators pulling latent prints from shiny or patterned materials. “The most common approach to detecting latent fingerprints has been the use of dusting powders made from white, black or fluorescent powders,” said Forensic Chemistry professor Simon Lewis, in a statement provided by the university. “However, there remain many highly patterned and/or reflective surfaces that continue to prove troublesome, making it hard to see fingerprints.” Researchers first crushed, or micronized, the pigment into a fine powder, and dusted for prints. They then used a white-light source to illuminate the surface, and a digital camera to photograph the prints. According to the researchers, the Egyptian blue powder outperformed commercially available dusting powders on patterned and reflective surfaces. Dr. Gregory Smith, a fellow researcher on the project, has used near-infrared imaging to find Egyptian blue pigment on millennia-old Egyptian artifacts for more than a decade. “I’d always wanted to investigate Egyptian blue for fingerprints because it exhibits strong photoluminescence in the NIR region,” he said. “It’s also non-hazardous and very stable, with painted artefacts dating back several thousand years still showing strong NIR luminescence.” Also known as cuprorivaite, the pigment is made up of roughly 65 percent silica, 15 percent calcium oxide, and 20 percent copper oxide. The first recorded preparation of the pigment was before 3,200 B.C., according to researchers, and was used throughout the ancient world until the beginnings of the Dark Ages. “The secret of how to make it was lost after the Roman Period, but then rediscovered in the 19th Century,” Dr Smith said in a press release. The team said the technique is a safe and simple way to image latent prints, and can also be extremely cost effective. What has made the pigment so vivid and durable over so many thousands of years, also makes it very useful to modern day investigators. The study, “ Micronised Egyptian blue pigment: A novel near-infrared luminescent fingerprint dusting powder ,” was published in the journal Dyes and Pigments .

SOURCE
ForensicsMag

Forensic Breakthrough’ Leads to Potential Suspect in 40-Year-Old Irish Massacre

Tue, 31 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The Kingsmill massacre, the execution of 10 unarmed men, is one of the most infamous attacks from the violent era of the ‘Troubles’ in Northern Ireland. Forty years later, an overlooked palm print on the getaway car has led to one of the suspects, according to The Belfast Telegraph . The palm print reexamination has led to a potential match in the database for the Police Service of Northern Ireland, who reportedly called the match a “massive development.” No identities have yet been released by the authorities. The hit came just a week into a new inquest into the incident. The minibus carrying a dozen textile workers was stopped by a camouflaged gunman on Jan. 5, 1976, in the rural south part of County Armagh. The workers were asked their religion. One Catholic was ordered to run away. The 11 Protestants were lined up and shot by a group of still-unknown killers, who had been hiding in hedges along the rural road. The getaway car was found abandoned across the border in the Republic of Ireland shortly after the attack. The Irish Republican Army (IRA) was long suspected for being behind the attack, and it was popularly believed to have been retaliation for killings of Catholics in the area around the same time. The single surviving victim of the attack, Alan Black, was shot 18 times. Black told the newspaper that he was stunned by the new evidence. “It’s nearly unbelievable that they had it all this time and now, when we’re into the inquest, they suddenly find a match,” Black reportedly said. “It’s unbelievable they couldn’t have done this before.” The police investigation was sharply criticized in a 2011 probe, which found that detectives had not appropriately investigated the massacre. The guns used in the Kingsmill incident were later linked to 110 other attacks and killings during the Troubles.

SOURCE
ForensicMag

Cops, criminals refusing to have DNA samples taken, Parliament told

Wed, 25 May 2016 07:31:00 GMT

SOURCE
News24

Parliament – Criminals and some police officers were refusing to have their DNA samples taken, Parliament heard on Wednesday.

The National Forensic Oversight and Ethics Board, also known as the DNA board, gave its annual progress report to Parliament’s police committee. And it would appear the board has other unexpected issues - part of their budget last year was used to fight xenophobic attacks - without their approval, they now claim. Detailing the problems they incur, DNA board deputy chairperson Vanessa Lynch said some offenders refused to have samples taken, as they did not understand why their samples were being extracted.

And some people, including police officers, did not to have their samples on the database, she said. Police officers who worked with forensics had to have their samples on file for elimination purposes. "And some of the police officers are simply refusing - that’s an issue that is obviously a big concern and we have to follow that up." She said they were working on a book explaining the need for samples to be taken, especially for arrestees.
Convicted offenders were being released without having their samples taken, she said. "That obviously is a grave concern because you only have one opportunity to do that. It’s a very important function that a convicted offender’s samples be held on the database, not only to possibly link them to previously unsolved cases, but also in the event that they commit an offence again." Correctional services and forensics were working together to generate lists of prisoners that would be released monthly, Lynch said. Economic Freedom Fighters MP Phillip Mhlongo suggested sedating prisoners and getting their samples. "They are in prison, so they forfeit some of their rights," she said. Democratic Alliance MP Zakhele Mbhele raised concerns about officers not wanting to have their samples on the database. "It raises the question of what they might be trying to hide," he said. The lack of adequate funds was also raised as a challenge for the board. Lynch said they had been operating on a shoe-string budget since they were launched in 2015. The board falls under the Civil Secretariat, she said, and part of their budget last year was used to fight xenophobic attacks, without their approval. Another issue raised by MPs and the board was the delayed implementation of the combined DNA Index System. Lynch said they were waiting on approval from the State Security department. The board was praised for doing good work under difficult circumstances.

Genetic Genius: The Quest for Leonardo da Vinci's DNA

Thu, 05 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

SOURCE
ForensicMag

Leonardo da Vinci had one of the most celebrated brushstrokes in the history of the Western World. But, the master didn’t only paint with brushes. He often used his fingers. Now, researchers are hoping that tiny pieces of his epidermis might have been left behind in the 500-year-old paint that could provide his true genetic code. But cracking the real da Vince code will take a team of researchers from around the world including Spain, Italy, France and the US. If they succeed, any doubt about the authenticity of Leonardo’s remains in Amboise, France would finally be put to rest. Likewise, genetic artists are hopeful that by using DNA phenotyping they might even be able to recreate a replica of the artist’s true face. “His life marked the rebirth of Western civilization, but no gravestone marks with certainty the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci,” said Jesse Ausubel, vice president of the foundation that helped create the project. “Now using modern techniques, anthropologists and geneticists are seeking Leonardo’s remains not simply to mark the spot but also to study and better understand his remarkable abilities and talents,” he said in a statement.

Famed for the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, Leonardo was the quintessential Renaissance Man that was not only a prominent artist and sculptor, but even designed plausible flying machines and military tanks hundreds of years ago.

The Leonardo Project, announced in the journal Human Evolution , is multi-organizational mission to recover the genius’s genetic code and learn more about the mind that produced such enduring works. Scientists hope to discover clues about the food he ate, and if he had any diseases, or genetic predispositions. The international team is taking a multipronged approach. Researchers first tracked down several probable relatives, alive today, that might seemingly provide a maternal link back to Leonardo. If researchers extract DNA from Leonardo’s remains, the genetic information from his relatives could authenticate the remains. Another team is performing an arsenal of tests on Leonardo’s works and notebooks to determine if any usable DNA might have survived from fingerprints, dust or even hair. The first test is expected to be performed on the “Adoration of the Magi” that has been undergoing restoration in a laboratory in Florence for the past two years. Any genetic information recovered could also be matched to the remains in France to determine an exact genetic code. But whether or not DNA could survive after hundreds of years and multiple restorations efforts remains to be seen. For more information, visit the Angelo Pontecorboli Editore website.

Lifting Impossible Prints

Sun, 01 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

SOURCE
ForensicMag

On July 21st, 2001, a female victim reported a burglary, assault and attempted rape that had occurred at her residence in Fairfax County, VA. With no actual rape, there was no semen or other fluids, from which to extract DNA for database profiling. However, there were several objects handled by the perpetrator at the crime scene, including a pair of sunglasses belonging to the suspect. These were processed in the standard manner for latent prints at that time, including superglue (cyanoacrylate) and black powder, followed by tape lifting. Unfortunately, this resulted in some ridge detail, but nothing approaching the quality needed for AFIS matching purposes. Several other items were sent to the forensic lab and swabbed for DNA but without success. With no print, no DNA, and no other trace evidence to go on, the case inevitably went cold. In 2014, a Fairfax County cold case detective, Jeremy Hinson, revisited the case, and on July 9th, decided to see if new latent print imaging modalities could reveal any usable print details. Laser on Sunglasses During August, 2014, we examined three pieces of evidence from this cold case that had previously been processed for trace evidence: a black nylon wallet, a black cordless phone, and a pair of black-framed sunglasses. Examination of these clearly showed that prior testing had occurred. The wallet had been processed using ninhydrin, and the phone had been processed using superglue and black powder. Neither of these objects showed any promise or potential for further processing. However, the sunglasses still showed a ridged area, and we decided to focus all further efforts on this area. The Fairfax County Police Department had acquired a forensic laser in 2010, and our first course of action was therefore to treat this area with rhodamine and photograph the area with this green laser at a wavelength equal to 532 nanometers.

Laser illumination is now widely accepted as the best approach for capturing fluorescent images of prints and other organic trace evidence—either treated with rhodamine or even from native (incipient) fluorescence. The principles of fluorescent imaging are schematically illustrated in figure 2. The object or surface under test is illuminated by light in particular wavelength band, usually green. The natural fluorescence or dye-aided fluorescence of trace organics occurs at a longer wavelength in the yellow and orange part of the visible spectrum. In order to preferentially image the weak fluorescence relative to the much brighter scatter from simple reflection of the light source, a blocking filter is placed between the object and the digital camera. This boosts the visibility of the fluorescence by many orders of magnitude. The laser gives superior results compared to a filtered lamp because it provides high spectral brightness (monochromaticity) with zero out-of-band light. Laser light at a single wavelength, and the coherent nature of a laser beam means that almost all the laser power can be directed to a particular area, usually by a handpiece coupled by a fiberoptic umbilical. Prior to laser scanning of the sunglasses, they were rinsed with methanol to remove any excess material other than the residual. Disappointingly, no new ridge details were revealed by using rhodamine and the laser in the standard manner. Nonetheless, six laser fluorescence images were printed and together with a DVD were submitted to the Northern Virginia Regional Identification System (NOVARIS). On August 21, we received notice back that the images were not of sufficient identification value.

Imaging Attempts with RTI
We then attempted to reveal the requisite ridge details using Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI). This is a software method of image processing that captures the surface shape or contour, and allows the viewer to observe localized details under optimum illumination and depth of focus for each location on the surface. We had recently been trained in the use of RTI by the widely recognized experts in this technology, a non-profit called Cultural Heritage Imaging; RTI is often used on historical and culturally important objects. Based on this training, we thought that if the shape of the glasses was accurately captured we might get print details that could be used for perpetrator identification. Briefly, a conventional digital color image consists of red, green and blue (RGB) intensity values for each pixel. A composite RTI image data set consists of RGB intensity as a function of illumination angle. In technical terms, the RGB values are assembled as a function of two spatial and two angular parameters that uniquely define the location of the illumination lamp. Basically, the surface shape is derived from the relative brightness of shadows and both specular and diffuse reflections of the camera flash. The image can then be locally optimized for the surface angle impact on brightness, color bias, depth of focus and so on. In practice we created a total of 36 color exposures from different known illumination angles. After about 90 minutes of processing, the final processed images were obtained. Unfortunately, while RTI clearly improved the images, we did not achieve AFIS usable quality. Attempts with HDR Photography Originally developed for artistic purposes, High Dynamic Range photography is another software based technique that is being used increasingly in forensic work. A conventional photograph is recorded with a given aperture and exposure time determined by the camera or the photographer. But, any photographer knows that varying exposure parameters, such as shutter speed and aperture, will optimize the color rendition and detail in different parts of a scene. (The human eye and brain do this automatically as we scan and study a real scene). In HDR, several full color images of the same scene are recorded under different exposure conditions. The HDR software combines these in a single composite image. This can then be manipulated by the skilled user to highlight details in any part of the overall image. In this case, we took image sets consisting of three and five exposures using a standard filtered lamp light source, and then processed these using HDR. Again we could see improvement of the capture ridge details, but sadly still not to AFIS standards. Combining Laser and HDR In a final throw of the dice, we decided to combine HDR with the laser, rather than lamp illumination. Again we recorded two different image sets—one with three exposure times, and one with five exposure times. Both image sets yielded a HDR optimized image of the ridge details that was definitely superior to anything we had achieved before. For reasons the author can only speculate about, the three-exposure data set surprisingly produced a slightly better HDR image than the five-exposure set. We believed that the best HDR image met AFIS standards and on November 6, 2014 we submitted the laser-HDR images to NOVARIS. On the same day, we received notification that the ridges provided a conclusive match with a print from Aaron Hijjnalike Thomas, sometimes referred to as the “East Coast Rapist.” He was already serving three life terms, plus 80 years, for a multiple rape conviction in Prince William County, Virginia and had been further sentenced in March 2013 to two additional life terms for other rapes in Loudoun County, Virginia. Based on this fact, the prosecutor, in consultation with the victim, decided not to pursue the case further. Most importantly, however, Detective Hinson was able to provide closure for the victim in this case with the knowledge that her perpetrator was incarcerated with zero possibility of parole release. Closure In addition to being able to assure the victim and the public that this dangerous serial perpetrator had been apprehended, the authors also had the satisfaction of knowing this case was solved via a latent print—a print obtained after 14 years in a cold case file. We believe this validates the unique advantages of combining laser print detection together with the newest image processing methods, along with a good, old fashioned dose of dogged persistence. A full description of RTI can be found at: http://culturalheritageimaging.org/Technologies/RTI .

Secondary DNA Transfers Questioned in Cold Case Murder Trial

Thu, 28 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

SOURCE
ForensicMag

A New Jersey man charged in two 1989 murders is challenging the DNA allegedly linking him to the two Philadelphia crime scenes. Part of his argument relies on some unknowns concerning the secondary transfer of trace amounts of genetic material. Rudolph Churchill, now 54, is charged in the strangling deaths of 19-year-old Ruby Ellis in March 1989, and 33-year-old Cheryl Hanible, found the next month. Both women were drug addicts working as prostitutes in the northern part of the city, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer . Ellis was discovered in an abandoned car in a lot in North Philadelphia, near a bloody paper towel. Hanible’s decomposed body was found in a burned-out bar, strangled with a shoelace from her sneaker. Touch DNA found on the sneaker, and the genetic mixture in the blood, connect Churchill to both crimes, prosecutors contend. But defense attorney Gina Capuano cross-examined the DNA analyst. Her questioning this week at trial indicated that the DNA could conceivably have come from secondary transfer – from spit in a highly-trafficked area, for instance – that was found on Hanible’s sneaker heel. The mixture reportedly came from as many as three people, at least one male. The defense attorney also challenged the findings of the expert that 15 of Churchill’s 16 alleles were found at the scene, and that the final marker was inconsistent with the suspect. The defense has attempted to cast doubt on the DNA analysis involved in the investigation. A used condom found near Ellis’s body was apparently lost in storage – though swabs from the condom were still admitted in trial. The defense has claimed that the evidence is “compromised” since it was uncovered in those years . The defense also contends that the crime scenes were in highly-trafficked places with trash, drug paraphernalia, and other debris that contaminates evidence. The crimes remained unsolved for decades, until a federal grant for Philadelphia police allowed further testing in cold cases in the city starting in 2013. The DNA from the two scenes produced a CODIS hit: Churchill had been required to give a DNA sample when he was released from a Georgia prison in 2007, according to The Inquirer . Churchill was arrested in 2014 and charged with multiple counts of murder and rape. “Secondary transfer” DNA has been a controversial subject for several years, as the sensitivity of genetic testing tools has increased, and picked up unforeseen traces of unintended individuals. A University of Indianapolis study last year found that DNA could be transferred by a handshake from a person to another person, and then to a knife handle .

Spotting a Lie Isn't Easy, but There Are Clues

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Source
Forensic Magazine

WASHINGTON (AP) — Spotting a lie isn't as quick and easy as it looks on television. With time and training, it is possible to get a good sense of when someone is deceiving you, experts say. "It's really about how to observe very carefully," said Pamela Meyer, author of the book "Liespotting" and chief executive officer of the private firm Calibrate, which trains people and companies about how to spot deception. "It's really not a parlor trick." It's a skill that can be developed with practice, said David Matsumoto, a San Francisco State University professor of psychology. He's also a consultant to law enforcement and intelligence agencies and chief executive officer of Humintell, a company that trains police agencies, lawyers and businesses in how to read emotions. Some clues to detecting deception: BASELINE IS KEY There is no magic tell or giveaway, Meyer and Matsumoto said. There are hints — or "leakage," as Meyer calls it — but they aren't the same for everyone.

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What experts look for is change from truth-telling to deception, but not one specific change. So they need a baseline, a sense of what people look and talk like when their guard is down and they are telling the truth. While it is possible to get a baseline with 20 seconds to 30 seconds of observation, it works better with more time. Different people have different baselines. Some people can act nervous — especially when being questioned by police — even if they are telling the truth. Once a normal is established, the idea is to ask open-ended questions and look for cues, changes in verbal and nonverbal behavior, Meyer said. VERBAL CHANGES Look for changes in language and grammar, Matsumoto said. Meyer points to distancing language, such as Bill Clinton's "I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky." Liars may split hairs, decline to answer, change the subject or tone, protest a question, even put up their hands while protesting, Meyer said. Also, look for extraneous information. That's often is a clue of deception, but not always, Matsumoto said. Police will ask for a disjointed or backward timeline of someone they are interrogating, he said. Constructed fake memories are done in chronological order so they are harder to call up backward. NONVERBAL CHANGES
There's a myth that fidgeting is a sign of lying, Meyer said. Some people naturally fidget or naturally freeze. The key is change, not a specific action, she said. That said, look at the face, Matsumoto recommended: "If something happens in the face it can happen anywhere" on the face. "Research has shown that the bulk of messages in any action is communicated nonverbally," Matsumoto said. Meyer tells people to look at the smile. A real smile is seen in the eyes, a fake smile is only in the mouth. Also watch for a smile of contempt with one lip corner curled, as if the liar thinks he or she is getting away with something, Meyer said. POLYGRAPH
The National Academy of Sciences gave a decidedly mixed review to the usefulness of polygraphs, especially as a means of screening out potential security threats in advance. A 2003 report said that if the person being examined isn't trained in countermeasures that can fool a lie detector machine, "specific-incident polygraph tests can discriminate lying from truth telling at rates well above chance, though well below perfection." But the same report said "almost a century of research in scientific psychology and physiology provides little basis for the expectation that a polygraph test could have extremely high accuracy." Matsumoto said much research points to the quality of the polygraph examiner, not the machine itself, as the most important factor. Well-trained people can divine truth without the machine, Matsumoto said — just ask his children. "My family gave up a long time ago trying to lie to me," he said.

South Africa to Fight Crime with New DNA Law

Thu, 07 Apr 2016 13:46:00 GMT

It took a distraught Lindie Mdluli several days to summon the courage to go to a South African police station after she was raped in 2007. When she got there, Mdluli says that police officers didn't discuss the kind of investigative DNA work that she had seen on television detective shows.

"Nobody told me about crime-scene DNA," said 37-year-old Mdluli, whose assailant was arrested but later released. "From watching TV, I thought they were going to ask for my clothes, but nobody asked."

Mdluli's story of failed opportunities to build a criminal case is common in South Africa, which struggles with high rates of rape and murder. In a rare bright spot, a new law will expand a state DNA database used to fight crime by compelling police to take samples from convicted offenders as well as suspects in crimes ranging from homicide to theft, a major undertaking that will test the nation's troubled police force.

Dozens of countries have legislation similar to the so-called DNA Act, which was signed by President Jacob Zuma on January 27. The goal is to match more offenders, including many who break the law more than once, with their crimes, exonerate the wrongly accused and crack cold cases. It will take a while to implement nationwide. Some 100,000 police are to receive training in the collection of genetic evidence; education starts in April and is expected to last five years.

While South Africa's forensic experts are highly skilled, police on the beat have been tarnished by cases of corruption, mismanagement and even violent crimes. Last year, a South African magistrate harshly criticized a police detective for shoddy work in the murder investigation of Oscar Pistorius, the double-amputee athlete who says he killed his girlfriend after mistaking her for an intruder in his home. Pistorius' murder trial starts March 3.

Last week, top South African police officials said they were committed to enforcing the DNA Act during a forensic science conference in Pretoria, the capital.

Activist and lawyer Vanessa Lynch said of skepticism of the police: "I just want to put a positive spin, instead of it becoming a mudslinging match against the police."

Lynch co-founded the DNA Project, an advocacy group that campaigned for the new South African law, after her father, John, was killed in his Johannesburg home in 2004. His clothes, a potentially valuable source of DNA samples, were discarded. Police did not take DNA samples from bottles from which the attackers had been drinking before the murder. Family and friends cleaned up the crime scene before investigators arrived, inadvertently destroying evidence.

The new law will give rape victims, including children, "a voice to speak for them," said Mdluli, the rape victim who was a panelist at a Johannesburg conference last week on the measure. She recalled her discomfort at pitting her word against her alleged assailant, a man she knew, without the support of DNA evidence. She eventually dropped the case.

Another woman at the conference, Karen Howell, immediately had DNA samples taken after she was raped in 2011 in her Johannesburg home, set up a neighborhood network to track her two assailants, called police to arrest one of the men after she saw him walking in a street and hounded police until they put a more responsive investigator on her case. Last year, the two attackers received lengthy jail terms.

"I had to help the police, help educate the police, even the courts," Howell said.

South African police recorded about 66,000 sexual offenses between April 2012 and March 2013. A separate 2010 study in Gauteng, South Africa's most populous province, concluded that only one in 25 rapes was reported to the police. The research, conducted partly by the South African Medical Research Council, also said one in four women in the province has experienced sexual violence.

The test under the new DNA law is as simple as a Breathalyzer test, requiring a swab inside the cheek that takes half a minute. Police must deliver a DNA sample to a lab within 30 days of taking it, and the law has another 30 days to analyze it and load it onto the database. A backlog of cases could also balloon as laboratory technicians try to cope with a flood of new DNA data.

Currently, the DNA database of the South African police has 180,000 profiles, in a country of about 53 million people. Lynch said the collection of several million profiles would make it far more effective.

Getting samples has already proven effective.

Last week, a state prosecutor asked an alleged rapist in a Johannesburg trial why his DNA samples were found on a 4-year-old girl whose body was left hanging on a hook in an abandoned building, The Star newspaper reported. It quoted the suspect, Modise Motapane, as saying: "I don't know."

On Monday, Motapane was sentenced to life in prison.

Source - Forensicmag.com

http://www.forensicmag.com/news/2014/02/south-africa-fight-crime-new-dna-law

DNA Exonerates Man Convicted on Bite-Mark Evidence, 33 Years Later

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Source
Forensic Magazine

Keith Allen Harward spent 33 years in prison due to a conviction for rape and murder, based on bite-mark evidence. Harward, however, was declared innocent by the Virginia Supreme Court on Thursday – and he walked out of Nottoway Correctional Center less than 24 hours later. He choked back tears as he recounted how his deceased parents never got to see him as a free man. "I'll never get that back,” Harward told a crowd. The DNA evidence from the crime scene, retested with modern methods, recently excluded Harward as the rapist and killer – and instead matched an inmate who died in an Ohio prison in 2006. The writ of actual innocence completely cleared Harward of the murder of Jesse Perron and the rape of the man’s wife in Newport News in 1982. “After conducting its own evaluation of the facts, including the results of the biological testing, the Commonwealth agrees no reasonable trier of fact would have convicted Harward of the murder, rape, forcible sodomy and robbery had this new scientific evidence been available at the time his trial, and affirmatively joins in Harward’s request for relief,” the judges ruled. “The Director of the Department of Corrections is ordered to release Harward from custody imposed by these convictions forthwith.” Harward was locked up in 1983, after being convicted of the four criminal counts. Harward had been a sailor on the U.S.S. Carl Vinson at the time. Even though he was 26 and had a moustache (an eyewitness description pegged the killer as 19 or 20 and clean-shaven), he was convicted based on bite marks on the surviving woman’s legs. Two forensic odontologists told the jury the marks conclusively came from Harward. Years of appeals failed. However, the Innocence Project got approval for the latest DNA testing of evidence from the crime scene. The DNA profile turned up a person from the national DNA databank: Jerry L. Crotty, who died in an Ohio prison in 2006. Crotty had also been a sailor aboard the U.S.S. Carl Vinson .
Prosecutors then pushed for Harward’s quick release. “This is wonderful news and it’s great to know that Mr. Hayward will soon be reunited with his family,” said Mark R. Herring, the Virginia Attorney General, in a statement . “It’s just heartbreaking to think that more than half of his life was spent behind bars when he didn’t belong there. The Commonwealth can’t give him back those years, but we can say that we got it wrong, that we’re sorry, and that we’re working to make it right.” Harward initially faced the death penalty, but his capital murder conviction was overturned in 1985, said Olga Akselrod, an Innocence Project attorney. "The fact that this case involved an innocent man who faced the death penalty should terrify everyone, not just in the state of Virginia but also in the 31 other states that still have the death penalty," Akselrod said. The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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Beyond Proof-of-Concept: Making Forensic Science Research Count

In the Age of AI: Transforming Forensic Science While Practitioners Remain Vigilant

Smart Policing: Where Research Meets Reality in Crime Prevention

Uncertainty Is Inevitable: Time for a Coherent Forensic Framework

Reconstructing a Staged Crime Scene using Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA)

Gathering Evidence from the Scene of a Traffic Accident

Editorial: (Evidence Gathering) "Collecting Evidence from the Scene of a Road Crash."

The “Fraud Wonderland” Framework: Living in a Distorted Reality by Joha-Maine Andrianatos

Editorial: Fraud Examination

"A High-Level Critical Review of the "Fraud Wonderland" Framework"

The Role of DNA in Crime Investigation: A Look Back at 2002

A Tribute to Dr N.J.C. Olivier †

Honouring his Contribution to Forensic Science and Biology Education in South Africa

Standardising Biology Laboratory Curriculum for European Undergraduate Programs in Health Education

Editorial: Forensic Education

"Standardising Biology Laboratory Curriculum in Health Education: A Blueprint for European Undergraduate Programs."

Emerging Evidence about Trauma-Informed Approaches in Forensic Science Education

Analysis of Digital Accounting Education Literature From 1982 to 2023.

Forensic Accounting in South African Banks to Reduce Fraud Risk.

Fraud: The Hidden Epidemic!

Is Your Child Unknowingly Laundering Money?

Revisiting the Essence of Forensic Science

Bridging the Gap between Education and Forensic Workplace

Forensic DNA Phenotyping

Digital Pathology and AI in Forensic Medicine

Fingerprint-Based Blood-Grouping

Outsmarting Real-Life Criminals in the Virtual World

Forensics and TheScientificWorld

From “familial searching” to “forensic genetic genealogy”: New frontiers – and challenges – of DNA analysis in criminal investigations

AI can simplify complexity in litigation support

Editorial: AI can simplify complexity in litigation support

The genetic witness: forensic DNA phenotyping

Editorial: The Genetic Witness: Forensic DNA Phenotyping

Forensic Uses of DNA Profiling Technologies

Editorial: Forensic Biology

"Risky Profiles: Societal Dimensions of Forensic Uses of DNA Profiling Technologies

Four Foreign Nationals, South African Found Guilty of Fraud and Corruption

Successful prosecution in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court for the HAWKS

The Wealthy and the Criminal Justice System

The Wealthy and the Criminal Justice System.

Remain Blind, Lady Justice.

Reeva Steenkamp Murder

Chanelle Henning Murder

A History of Controlling Behaviour

Key Witness

Charges Dropped

CSI TV. Are You Ready for Reality?

CSI TV: Are You Ready for Reality?

Clearing Your Name- How Forensic Evidence is Being Used in the Johnny Depp Defamation Trial

A claim of defamation

How To Become A Forensic Technician In South Africa

In this article we will explain the difference between a forensic technician and scientist.

The VBS Scandal

Link to Original Story: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2020-06-18-vbs-bank-heist-arrests-whos-next/#gsc.tab=0

Update: How Important Is Forensic Evidence In South Africa

The Van Breda-Murder case

Understanding Forensic Careers Through Case Examples

The Case Of Oscar Pistorius

Understanding Fields of Forensic Science in South Africa

Forensic Science Careers In South Africa

Are you interested in a career in forensics?

Crime does not pay even after death as the Constitutiunal Court orders corruption proceeds be paid back from deceased estate.

"ConCourt orders corruption proceeds be paid back from deceased former ANC official's estate" By Riaan Grobler from News 24 on 31/03/2020 @ 17:32

SIM swop fraud rises by 104%

5 January 2019

Dundee Municipality gets placed under administration

14 December 2018

Deaths due to tainted herbal medicine under-recorded

University of Adelaide

Forensic report uncovers rampant corruption at Endumeni Municipality

16 October 2018

Using bloodstains at crime scenes to determine age of a suspect or victim

American Chemical Society

How important forensic evidence?

Body of 19th Century Serial Killer H. H. Holmes Exhumed Near Philadelphia

Editorial: (Evidence Gathering)
"Collecting Evidence from the Scene of a Road Crash."