Question

Discuss the functions of a forensic scientist. Why should the police rely on evidence collected by evidence technicians rather than evidence collected by patrol officers or​ detectives? Do you think all police officers should be trained in evidence​ collection? Mention its pros and cons.

Answer 1

A forensic scientist analyze any kind of physical evidence found at a crime spot,by using scientific principles(like-DNA fingerprinting). The evidences involve trace or DNA evidences like blood,hair,nail etc.,or presence or absence of drugs,alcohols etc.in urine,blood samples. So a forensic scientist must have enough problem-solving or thinking skills. Forensic scientists play an important role in case of improper evidence for a crime.

The police should rely on only the samples collected by technicians because this job needs severals cautions to follow.Example-to avoid contamination,the site should be physically covered by ropes,walls or gates.To collect the samples,medical personnels are present with them to avoid contamination.They scan the whole area,take safety cautions.Entry or exit of any person or vehicle is to be controlled.For these reasons,technicians are very reliable.

Yes police officers also should be trained in evidence collection for much more smooth and convenient investigation procedure. Otherwise it takes time to call the technicians and the biological samples in the spot might get washed away till then.

Pros of this involve better evidence collection,better documentation of the crime,overall a better understanding of what has actually happened.Cons.-higher cost,complexity in storage of evidences,privacy issues,lack of management skills etc.