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1500
First forensic concept is used
The first known forensic concept was the use of fingerprints as a form of identification in China -
Mathieu Orfila discovers toxicology
Orfila discovers the science of toxicology which helped solve cases that involve poison or other toxic chemicals -
Facial Reconstruction
This process uses skeletal remains to create 2D and 3D reconstructions by using anthropology, anatomy, and creativity. It is crucial tool in forensics because it can give scientist an idea of what victims looked like. -
Edmund Locard develops Locard's Exchange Principle
Edmund Locard known as the "Sherlock Holmes of France" creates the principle which stated that every contact leaves a trace. -
Drug Testing
This form of testing which was originally created in the 1930s, was created to inform forensic scientist of any drugs present in a crime scene. -
The Lindbergh Kidnapping
A German immigrant named Bruno Hauptmann kidnapped 20 month old Charles Lindbergh and the remains of the boy were found just miles from his home. The evidence that convicted Hauptmann was found when handwriting analysts matched Haupmann's handwriting to the handwriting on ransom notes from the kidnapping. This case changed forensic science because it used an everyday item to convict a criminal. It also made the transportation of kidnapped victim a federal crime. -
3D Scanner
In forensic investigations, a 3D scanner can be placed in the middle of a room while the scanner takes 360 degree photos and measures the distance of the room. This changed forensics because it eliminated the time consuming process of sketching a room. -
DNA Sequencing
This test determines the order of four chemical blocks that make up a DNA molecule. It has become one of the most valuable tools in forensic cases. -
Alternate Light Photography
This equipment was helps determine damage to body before physical wounds appear. Used by forensic nurses, this equipment operates by using blue light and orange filters -
Alec Jeffreys develops fingerprint techniques
Jeffreys develops techniques for genetic fingerprinting and DNA profiling.
