Forensics
The term forensics encompasses various scientific and technical disciplines concerned with investigating and clarifying criminal acts. The goal of forensics is to collect, secure, and analyze evidence for use in criminal proceedings. Key areas include forensic medicine, criminal biology, forensic chemistry, and ballistics.
Major subfields of forensics
-
Forensic Medicine: Examination of corpses to clarify cause and circumstances of death.
-
Criminal Biology: Analysis of biological traces such as DNA, blood, or tissue samples to identify perpetrators.
-
Forensic Chemistry: Investigation of chemical substances, such as drugs or toxins, related to crimes.
-
Ballistics: Analysis of firearms, projectiles, and gunshot wounds to reconstruct shooting incidents.
Forensics in the digital age
With advancing digitalization, digital forensics is becoming increasingly important. It involves securing and analyzing digital evidence from computers, smartphones, and other devices to uncover cybercrime and reconstruct digital trails that may identify perpetrators.
Forensics at the Brandenburg State Criminal Police Office
In Brandenburg, forensic investigations are primarily conducted at the Criminal Technical Institute of the State Criminal Police Office (LKA). Cutting-edge technologies are employed for securing and analyzing biological and digital traces used as evidence in legal proceedings.
Conclusion
Forensics is an indispensable part of criminal investigation, enabling perpetrators to be identified through scientific evidence. With specialized technologies, forensic experts play a crucial role in uncovering the truth.