Staffordshire University logo
STORE - Staffordshire Online Repository

Preventing miscarriages of justice: A review of forensic firearm identification

BOLTON-KING, Rachel (2016) Preventing miscarriages of justice: A review of forensic firearm identification. Science & Justice, 56 (2). pp. 129-142. ISSN 1355-0306

This is the latest version of this item.

[img]
Preview
Text
ViewPageProof_SCIJUS_558 Nov 2015.pdf - AUTHOR'S ACCEPTED Version (default)
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) .

Download (1MB) | Preview

Abstract or description

The role of a firearm examiner is wide ranging, involving tasks that require scientific understanding in aspects of chemistry, physics and biology. This article aims to provide a critical review of the key scientific principles and practices specifically involved with forensic firearm identification and to discuss how misidentifications have resulted in cases of injustice. Implementation of quality assured examination practice, demonstration of individual examiner competence and more objective methods of reporting are being adopted by firearm examiners and laboratories to address some of the criticisms relating to subjectivity and standardisation inherent within the discipline. The impact of these changes is outlined and further recommendations are made for both examiners and legal professionals to minimise the potential for future injustices involving firearms evidence. Latest research in the field is cited, continuing to support the theory and use of firearm identification as admissible evidence in court.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Competence; Evidence; Firearm identification; Forensic; Imaging; Miscarriage of justice
Faculty: Previous Faculty of Business, Education and Law > Law
Previous Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Sciences > Sciences
Depositing User: Rachel BOLTON-KING
Date Deposited: 16 Mar 2016 09:51
Last Modified: 24 Feb 2023 03:48
URI: https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/2282

Available Versions of this Item

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item

DisabledGo Staffordshire University is a recognised   Investor in People. Sustain Staffs
Legal | Freedom of Information | Site Map | Job Vacancies
Staffordshire University, College Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST4 2DE t: +44 (0)1782 294000