Case Review essay about the Zodiac Killer

CCJ 240 INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE Spring 2021

CASE REVIEW PAPER FORMAT

Each student will prepare a “case review” that illustrates the application of forensic science methods and techniques as a major contributing factor in arrest and prosecution in a specific criminal case. Your case review paper will provide a thorough examination and assessment of the contribution of one or more forensic science methods or practices to the successful conclusion of the case

Your paper must be organized in relation to the following general outline.

· Title Page

· Abstract

· Introduction of the Case,

· Identification and Description of Forensic Science Disciplines Involved

· What forensic methods were employed in this case

· Presentation of Principal findings

· Conclusion and Recommendations

· Bibliography and References

TITLE PAGE

ABSTRACT (up to 50 words)

INTRODUCTION OF THE CASE

Provide a short summary of the case you have selected and (a) cite the legal case(s) (e.g., Gotti v State of New York, CCR 00001X), (b) briefly review facts and circumstances of the crime, criminal behaviors, and or criminal defendants involved, (c) identify the forensic science discipline(s) and method(s) examined in your review, and (d) define the investigative, prosecution and/or evidentiary problem(s) or issue(s) involved. The purpose of this statement is to acquaint the reader with the subject and introduce him/her to the principal events, forensic methods and techniques considered and used in developing and trying the case, so that he/she may understand central points that you will be making in the next section of your paper – findings.

PRESENTATION OF PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Present the factual information or “findings” derived from the application of forensic science disciplines and methods employed in the criminal case. Identify what forensic science disciplines and methods were employed at each stage of the criminal case and briefly explain how these disciplines and methods contributed to the development and resolution of the case. Discuss evidentiary and procedural issues that could have limited or enhanced the contribution of forensic science in this and similar types of criminal cases.

In your analysis, be sure to identify and briefly explain the relevance of the scientific method as a guiding philosophy in the investigation of crimes and prosecution of offenders.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

What empirically supportable conclusions can be made, based upon the research evidence, about the effectiveness and accuracy of these forensic science methods and techniques employed in criminal investigation.

What recommendations, if any, can be made for improvements in forensic methods and procedures based on these conclusions.

While recommendations are not required, if offered, you should include concrete actions intended to increase the effectiveness and strengthen the validity and reliability of forensic methods in the legal process. If you choose to present recommendations, be sure to refer to the support, cited earlier in your paper, which motivates your arguments. If warranted include any recommendations you have regarding future research on this topic.

BIBLIOGRAPHY AND/OR REFERENCES

The paper will require reviewing (a) current relevant literature on the forensic science discipline and methods regarding their utility, validity and reliability and (b) the facts associated with the specific criminal case(s) you examined in which that forensic science discipline and method was used to “solve the case” and bring the offender to justice.

Case Review papers must be typed, doublespaced, using APA format, with a separate cover page, a separate onepage abstract, and a separate page containing a bibliography of the articles and reference works covered by your review and analysis. Citations should be in the form of footnotes. Papers must be at least 12 pages (15 pages counting Title page, Abstract page Table of Contents and Bibliography pages) but should not exceed 30 pages. A well-written paper for this course is typically between 15 to 20 pages in length.

DUE DATES

Each student, separately, will prepare and submit a formal paper (1 printed copy and one digital version.) Case review papers are due by Friday, April 30, 2021 The digital electronic copy of your case review paper must be submitted in MS Word format and uploaded to drop box in Canvas LMS by 6:00 pm.

To receive extra credit, all case review presentations should be prepared using power point. A digital version of your case review presentation should be provided to the instructor before the presentation. If you elect to do a case review presentation, your oral presentation PPT file must be submitted in final form, incorporating all changes and modifications by 4:00 PM Thursday, April 29, 2021.

Richard B. Groskin, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor and Director Page 1 of 15

Criminology and Criminal Justice Sciences Subject to revision by instructor