Ep 6. Testing the Evidence

In Making a Murderer season 1 episode 6, titled Testing the Evidence, viewers are taken through the process of scientific testing and how it can potentially exonerate someone who has been wrongfully accused. The episode primarily focuses on the DNA evidence from the murder case and how it was tested.

Viewers are introduced to Dr. Karl Reich, who was hired by the defense team to conduct DNA testing on a sample found on the victim's car key. This key was crucial evidence in the trial which supposedly linked Steven Avery to the murder of Teresa Halbach. Dr. Reich explains that he was able to conduct testing that was more advanced than the technology that was available during the original trial, giving him the opportunity to gather more conclusive results.

The episode also provides a comprehensive look into the DNA testing process, showing how DNA is extracted and analyzed in a laboratory. It also delves into the chain of custody for evidence, explaining the importance of documenting who has access to the evidence before it is tested to ensure its integrity.

Throughout the episode, viewers are also shown footage from the original trial, including the examination of the evidence and the testimonies from forensic experts. The defense team argues that the initial testing on the evidence was flawed, and it is revealed that evidence may have been contaminated due to the improper handling, which is shown to be a crucial factor in the integrity of the evidence.

The episode raises a lot of questions about how evidence is gathered and analyzed, and how the justice system can potentially fail due to human error. It also highlights the importance of science and technology in detecting and correcting mistakes.

In addition to the scientific aspect, the episode displays the emotional stress that comes with being wrongly accused of a crime. Family members and friends of Steven Avery share their feelings about the trial and the impact it has had on their lives.

Overall, Making a Murderer season 1 episode 6 is a thought-provoking exploration of the scientific and legal processes that determine guilt and innocence in our criminal justice system. It examines the importance of evidence, scientific testing, and the crucial role that proper handling of it plays in ensuring a fair trial. It is an engaging and emotional episode that leaves viewers with a lot to consider about the flaws in our criminal justice system.