ADJ-12 — Introduction to Criminalistics

Prerequisite: None

Description: An introduction to the role of criminalistics in criminal investigations. The methods utilized in the forensic analysis of crime scenes, pattern evidence, instruments, trace evidence, biological evidence, weapons and firearms, questioned documents, and controlled substances. The categories of direct evidence, circumstantial evidence, physical evidence, testimonial evidence, and exculpatory evidence will be explored, and the pattern, chemical, and biological types of evidence will be examined. 54 hours lecture and 12 hours laboratory. (Letter grade only)