Forensic Criminology

This book provides a much-needed sociological and criminological analysis of the context in which techniques of forensic science are applied to identify and prosecute offenders. In attempting to bring together two interdisciplinary subjects (forensics and criminology), it is the first text of its kind in the UK.
Forensic Criminology will be essential for students of criminology, criminal justice, criminal investigations and crime science. It will also be useful to criminal justice practitioners.

Andy Williams is Principal Lecturer and Programme Area Leader at the Institute of Criminal Justice Studies at Portsmouth University. His main research areas are forensic criminology; forensic techniques and their uses and interpretation in court; dangerous offenders; public protection and offender profiling. His previous books include: The Anatomy of Serious Further Offending (Oxford University Press, with Mike Nash); The Handbook Of Public Protection (Willan, with Mike Nash); and The Myth of Moral Panics (Routledge, with Bill Thompson).

1. Introduction Part 1: The Historical and Epistemological Backdrop 2. Constructed Knowledge and the Philosophy of Science 3. The Beginnings of 'Scientific Criminology' 4. The Beginnings of Forensic Investigation 5. The Beginnings of Criminal Investigation Part 2: Contemporary Forensic Investigations 6. Investigating Crime 7. Information Material and Evidence 8. Crime Analysis and Crime Mapping. 9. Scientific Support and Crime Scene Examination Part 3: Failsafe Forensics 10. Forensics Scientific and Detection Methods 11. Forensics on Trial.