The IRE Resource Center is a major research library containing more than 23,250 investigative stories — both print and broadcast. These stories are searchable online or by contacting the Resource Center directly (573-882-3364 or rescntr@ire.org) where a researcher can help you pinpoint what you need. Browse or search the tipsheet section of our library below. Stories are not available for download but can be easily ordered by contacting the Resource Center:
Search results for "forensic examination techniques" ...
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Science Casts Doubt on FBI Bullet Evidence
This story investigated the validity of a forensics technique, comparative lead bullet analysis, that has been used by the FBI crime laboratory since the late 1960's. FBI scientists determine the trace metal profile of a lead slug and then compare bullet profiles. They found there was not a solid scientific backing for this technique and that new research indicates that the conclusions the FBI examiners drew about relationships between were, at best, unwarranted. There was never evidence to conclude that the fact that two bullets share similar trace element profiles means they are in some way connected, and there is now evidence against that conclusion. This is important because the technique is commonly used in murder cases where traditional ballistics cannot be used and, often where there is little evidence.
Tags: forensics; FBI; crime lab; lead bullet analysis; FBI scientists; lead slug; FBI examiners; American Chemical Society; National Academy of Sciences; bullet lead; fingerprint analysis; Iowa State University; National Research Council; Middlesex County Superior Court; crime scene; FBI testimony; National Research Council; rifling-mark analysis
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Penned In
This story is about the conviction and 40-year sentence of John Michael Harvey for the rape of a four-year old girl. Harvey protests his innocence, and so does the jury foreman, the judge in his trial, appellate attorneys, investigators, and even the findings of a lie detector. Even the victim says he didn't do it, and that her family members and the prosecutor coached her into saying Harvey did it. Since Harvey's conviction, the victim and her mother have signed affidavits professing Harvey's innocence. The trial judge wrote a letter supporting Harvey's parole, and the jury foremen says he made a mistake. He's going to testify on Harvey's behalf at the appeal.
Tags: rape; child abuse examiner; prosecutor; forensic examination techniques; Texas Court of Criminal Appeals; Texas Department of Criminal Justice; policy on sex offender treatment; parole division policies on sex offenders; sex offenders; wrongful conviction; child molester; wrongful conviction; appeal