The Use of Forensic Science in Crime Scenes
The analysis of the use of forensic science in the State Vs. Hayden case.
The Tragedy:
May 14th, 1995, Dawn Fehring was found dead on her kitchen floor after being brutally murdered by Eric Hayden, her neighbor upstairs. During the investigation, the police turned to the FBI to figure out the best way to capture whoever did this horrible crime. The biggest piece of evidence in this case was also the most useless, a bedsheet with a palm print interfered by the bedsheet itself.
The Creation and Discovery:
The FBI turned to photo imaging technology for hopes of a different forensic point of view. A forensic investigator at the FBI was “…able to create a filter that was able to detect a repetitive pattern…”, not only did this lead to a breakthrough in the case but also a breakthrough in all crime and science technology. The addition of the new technology was risky in some situations because it was never submitted as evidence. But after digitally enhancing the palm print from the bedsheet, it was compared to Eric Hayden’s. Hayden was then arrested and charged with first-degree murder.
The Acceptance:
During the trial, the prosecutors were weary because of the evidence found by the new forensic technology. The forensic investigator who created the photo imagining technology ended up showing the jury and the judge the depth of this newly found criminal prevention technology. Through the use of the forensic scientists and the photo imaging technology being applied, Eric Hayden was sentenced to 26 years in prison.
The forensic science technology continues to grow every day. Not only does it change and develop but it continues to keep people safe.
