In responding to your peers, identify the costs and benefits of the methods and practices discussed, including any aspects that can improve upon the approach discussed.

PEER POST # 1

Forensic methodologies are designed to systematically investigate criminal cases, and while each approach may differ, several core components remain essential across all of them. The first and most critical component is the collection and preservation of evidence. This process ensures that the evidence gathered remains intact, reliable, and admissible in court. Without proper handling, even the most compelling evidence can be rendered useless (Fisher, 2019). The next vital element is forensic analysis, which involves applying scientific techniques to examine the evidence and draw conclusions that help solve the case. This analysis could include anything from fingerprint identification to DNA testing, depending on the type of evidence collected (Bieber, Calkins, & Hart, 2020). Maintaining a proper chain of custody is fundamental to ensure that the evidence is tracked and stored securely at every stage of the investigation, from the crime scene to the courtroom (Pollock, 2021). This meticulous process ensures that no evidence is tampered with, protecting its credibility during legal proceedings.

Doing my own investigation, I would focus on methods that ensure both thoroughness and transparency. Techniques like DNA analysis and fingerprinting would be my primary tools because of their strong scientific backing and their ability to provide highly reliable evidence (Fisher, 2019). DNA testing, in particular, has proven to be one of the most definitive ways to establish the identity of a suspect or victim in criminal cases (Casey, 2018). As technology continues to play a bigger role in modern crimes, I would also utilize digital forensics to examine devices and data storage that might contain crucial information, such as emails, text messages, or even deleted files (Casey, 2018). Throughout the investigation, I would make sure to maintain thorough documentation of every step, ensuring that all evidence is handled with care and in line with legal protocols. This not only helps maintain the integrity of the case but also provides a clear and defensible record for trial (Pollock, 2021).

PEER POST # 2

It is essential when handling evidence that a specialist is able to incorporate specific methodologies that will ensure the investigations integrity, creditability, and utility in resolving disputes or legal cases. The first methodology that is explained in text is handling data as little as possible. This prevents contamination with evidence. Information about the evidence should be copied prior to examination to be able to validate the originality of the evidence (Easttom,2022). Tools that are recommended are Encase, Forensic Toolkit, and OSForensics also linux commands (Easttom,2022). It is important to handle to evidence very minimally due to the risk of altering the evidence which is a possible every time the evidence is handled (Easttom,2022). What may seem like minor changes can cause complications when presenting evidence and may result in the validity of said evidence. This methodology was adapted by the Locard’s Principle of Transference which simply states that you cannot interact in an environment without leaving some trace evidence (Easttom,2022).

In addition to handling the evidence minimally there is also complying with rules of evidence which includes maintaining chain of custody (Easttom,2022). Maintaining chain of custody will provide an unaltered record of who handle the evidence, when and why. This provides transparency in handling evidence (Chisum, Turvey, 2011).