Forensic Literacy: Helping to Solve the Problem of Wrongful Convictions

Presenter

Nathan LaPointe

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Elena Carbone, Honors College, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A5, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 1 (A1-A20) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Background: Forensic science bridges the gap between science and law. It’s an interdisciplinary and multifaceted field that is constantly evolving. The Sixth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States guarantees that the verdict of all criminal trials will be decided on by a jury made up of one’s peers. However, the average citizen serving on a jury may not understand the intricacies of different evidence collection techniques nor the correct conclusion to be drawn from the evidence presented. For the purposes of this research, forensic literacy is defined as the degree to which individuals have the ability to understand and use forensic evidence to inform their arguments and decisions supporting their verdict.  

Problem: The lack of forensic literacy in a jury, combined with bias accumulated throughout the evidence collection process has led to an alarming number of wrongful convictions; thus, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the evidence among jurors.   

Methods: Articles related to eight forms of forensic evidence (fingerprinting, bitemark analysis, handwriting analysis, hair and nail analysis, ballistics, bloodstain pattern analysis, eyewitness testimony, and DNA evidence) were drawn from two databases. The articles were reviewed, and the strengths and limitations of each method were identified.  

Conclusion/Significance: Most types of forensic evidence are flawed. By identifying the strengths and limitations of each type of evidence, we can best equip jurors with the forensic literacy skills necessary to ensure more just and accurate outcomes. 

Keywords

Forensic Evidence, Forensic Science, Criminology

Research Area

Crime and Justice

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