Role of Forensic Science in Rape and Murder Cases: Measures for Viable Results

In rape and murder cases, Forensic Science has a crucial role in identifying victim’s body through advanced forensic techniques such as Forensic DNA Reports. It is also used for crime scene analysis and collection of evidence that provides clinching scientific evidence which corroborates or contradicts the accused’s guilt. These pieces of evidence are useful for investigation purposes and the conclusion of the trial. However, Forensic Science has certain limitations and therefore, forensic experts must adopt the Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs) guidelines for accurate results while sample collection, preservation, and sample storage. If forensic experts failed to adopt these guidelines, it may lead to incorrect or erroneous results. Such erroneous results may be obtained due to inadequate quantity, improper collection methods, delay in testing, etc. Therefore, forensic experts and other frontline responders shall strictly follow Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) guidelines, otherwise, the courts may acquit the accused due to the inadmissibility of such evidence. This article focuses on the role of forensic science in rape and murder cases and the need to follow appropriate protocols to produce viable results.