Science Café Cleveland presents
To Catch a Criminal
The Use of DNA Testing in Criminal Investigations
FEBRUARY 13, 2017
FEATURING:
Emily Feldenkris
Forensic Scientist, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation
EVENT INFORMATION:
Forensic scientists at the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) have employed a multitude of efficient technologies to analyze over 12,000 additional sexual assault kits since 2012, thus minimizing a backlog of untested sexual assault kits; this process has led to the successful prosecution of many criminals. Through the addition of these DNA profiles to the federal database, investigators can now quickly identify and link individuals to previously unlinked crimes. BCI’s methods are being used as a model by other law enforcement agencies to restore justice in communities nationwide.
While DNA technology has improved dramatically, many popular articles and TV shows tend to overstate the ubiquity of DNA with evidentiary value. It should be used with discretion, carefully considering the many conditions that need to be met in order for the evidence to reach the threshold of acceptability within a court of law. Join Emily Feldenkris, Forensic Scientist of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, at this month's Science Cafe Cleveland in discussion of how DNA evidence should be used to ensure that justice is served.
LINKS OF INTEREST:
Office of Justice Programs | National Institute of Justice - Forensic DNS
In addition, the Innocence Project, the NAS, the AAAS and others have organized courses for judges on the appropriate use and interpretation of DNA evidence. The link below takes you to an example:
Claudia Lutz. 2014. Genomics for Judges. Educating Illinois On How Genetic Information Can Impact Court Decisions. Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology | University of Illinoise | News
EVENT DETAILS:
WHERE:
The Music Box Supper Club - Concert Hall
1148 Main Avenue
Cleveland, Ohio 44113
WHEN:
February 13, 2017
Doors will be open 5:30 - 9:00 PM (Last call at 8:45PM). Presentation and discussion is 7:00 - 8:00 PM. The Concert Hall will also host a limited menu before and during the event. Not to mention a full bar! (Click here to view menu). Come early, get a good seat, grab a bite and a beverage and enjoy the discussion!
WHO:
Sponsored by Case Western Reserve University chapter of Sigma Xi, WCPN ideastream, and the Music Box Supper Club.
Click here for an event flyer (.pdf)
