Forensic Science Experts for Criminal Defence Solicitors

Call head office 01782 394929
London Office 0207 118 9001
Freephone 0800 999 7 666

Murder to Manslaughter: Diminished Responsibility

Written by: Alan Baker 25th October, 2024

Diminished responsibility is a legal defence used in criminal cases to argue that a defendant’s mental capacity was significantly impaired at the time of the offense, reducing their ability to fully understand or control their actions. While it doesn’t absolve the defendant of guilt, it can lead to a lesser charge, such as manslaughter instead…

DNA Transfer in Everyday Interactions

Written by: Alan Baker 25th October, 2024

Over the years, the sensitivity of DNA analysis has seen remarkable advancements. Today, forensic scientists can generate informative DNA profiles from trace amounts of DNA—sometimes originating from just a few cells. This means that nearly any item or surface in a home or other environment can be sampled with a reasonable chance of yielding a…

Investigating Cocaine Use in Hair Samples

Written by: Alan Baker 25th October, 2024

Introduction When testing for cocaine (COC) in hair samples, one key challenge is distinguishing between ingestion and external contamination. The body can absorb cocaine into the hair both through the bloodstream after consumption and from environmental exposure. Testing for metabolites (the substances formed when the body breaks down cocaine) plays a crucial role in proving…

Pink Cocaine

Written by: Alan Baker 22nd October, 2024

The world of illicit drugs has always evolved, with each new substance bringing fresh challenges. One such drug, often referred to as “pink cocaine” or “tucibi,” has been making waves. Despite its misleading name, pink cocaine is not usually related to cocaine. So, what is it, and why is it becoming a growing concern?  …

Organic and Inorganic Gunshot Residue

Written by: Alan Baker 18th October, 2024

A firearm discharge produces two distinct types of residues: Organic  Gunshot Residue (OGSR) and Inorganic Gunshot Residue (IGSR). While both are valuable for forensic analysis, they differ in composition, origin, and transfer. Composition: OGSR: Primarily composed of organic compounds. These include partially burned or unburned propellant chemicals, stabilisers, plasticisers, and other additives used in the…

RSS All Top News — ScienceDaily

  • DNA evidence rewrites story of people buried in Pompeii eruption
    Researchers have used ancient DNA to challenge long-held interpretations of the people of Pompeii. Contrary to physical appearances, the DNA evidence revealed unexpected variations in gender and kinship, revising the story as written since 1748. The genetic data also underlined the cosmopolitan nature of the Roman Empire, showing that Pompeians were mainly descended from immigrants […]
Share this page