standardization of forensic sciences

Report Finds Forensic Evidence Lacking
February 27, 2009

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"National Academy of Sciences says much of what's commonly called 'forensic sciences' doesn't meet scientific standards. Experts say the country's forensics methods and systems — from fingerprint identification to bite-mark analysis — need an overhaul...

The research council report recommends that a new, independent National Institute of Forensic Science set a research agenda, enforce standards and push for improvements....

Since the development of highly precise DNA testing in recent years, the scientific basis behind many older forensic methods has come into question.

The committee found there isn't enough research behind many forensic techniques to show how accurate and reliable they are.

It also says forensic labs are underfunded and understaffed, and there's no mandatory certification to ensure quality.

This new institute, according to the report, "must have a culture that is strongly rooted in science" and "must not be part of a law enforcement agency."

The report did not offer specific judgments about past convictions or pending cases, nor did it offer views as to whether courts should reassess cases that have already been tried."