Ep 2. Bodies of Evidence

The New Detectives: Case Studies in Forensic Science season 3 episode 2, titled Bodies of Evidence, focuses on the intricate investigation and analysis behind identifying and solving murders without witnesses using forensic evidence.

One of the cases discussed in this episode is the murder of an elderly woman who was found strangled in her own home. The body had decomposed significantly, making it difficult to determine the murderer. The forensic team had to use advanced techniques such as fly larvae analysis and DNA testing to identify the killer. The process of locating and analyzing the fly larvae found at the crime scene helped forensic experts estimate the time of death, while DNA testing helped identify the suspect.

Another case featured in this episode involves a hunter who discovers a skeleton in the forest while hunting. The skeleton's condition indicated that it had been buried for at least a few years. Further investigations revealed that the deceased had been a missing young woman, and her killer was believed to be her former boyfriend. The forensic team gathered key evidence from tooth imprints, forensic dental analysis, and soil analysis. These analyses played a crucial role in identifying the killer, leading to a conviction for the homicide.

The episode also discusses the use of forensic evidence in solving murders that were initially classified as "accidents." One such case featured a young couple found dead in their vehicle after a gun was fired accidentally. However, an autopsy revealed that the bullet's trajectory was inconsistent with their explanation of the accident, leading investigators to believe it was a homicide. The forensic team used gunshot residue analysis and blood spatter analysis to prove that the gunshot was not accidental but, in fact, a homicide.

The last case involves a triple homicide, where a family was shot and killed in their home. A family member, who was not at home at the time of the killing, discovered the bodies and called the police. The forensic team used bullet analysis, blood spatter analysis, and gunshot residue analysis to identify the number of people involved in the crime and their motives. The team's extensive investigation into the killings revealed that the murder was motivated by greed, leading to a successful conviction.

Overall, The New Detectives: Case Studies in Forensic Science season 3 episode 2, explores the way forensic investigators use scientific techniques to solve what seems to be unsolvable cases. The episode highlights multiple ways investigators can provide evidence to ensure the right individual is held responsible for crimes, no matter how strongly they tried to conceal their actions. With its in-depth analysis of each step of the investigation, the episode offers a glimpse into the science behind forensic evidence and reinforces the role of forensic science in modern law enforcement.