What role does forensic science play in criminal investigations?

Forensic science is integral to criminal investigations as it involves the application of scientific principles to analyze various types of evidence collected from crime scenes. This may include biological samples (like blood or hair), trace evidence (such as fibers or gunshot residue), and physical evidence (like fingerprints, weapons, or tools). Through rigorous scientific techniques, forensic experts can provide objective findings that help identify suspects, establish connections between evidence and the crime, and ultimately support or refute hypotheses about how a crime occurred. This analysis can provide vital information that informs the investigation and aids in the pursuit of justice.

While conducting interviews with witnesses, coordinating with law enforcement agencies, and drafting legal documents are all important aspects of the criminal justice process, they do not specifically pertain to the application of scientific methods in the examination of evidence in the way that forensic science does.