Understanding Forensic DNA

Suzanne Bell · John M. Butler

Sep. 2022 · Cambridge University Press

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Forensic DNA analysis plays a central role in the judicial system. A DNA sample can change the course of an investigation with immense consequences. Because DNA typing is recognized as the epitome of forensic science, increasing public awareness in this area is vital. Through several cases, examples and illustrations, this book explains the basic principles of forensic DNA typing, and how it integrates with law enforcement investigations and legal decisions. Written for a general readership, Understanding Forensic DNA explains both the power and the limitations of DNA analysis. This book dispels common misunderstandings regarding DNA analysis and shows how astounding match probabilities such as one-in-a-trillion are calculated, what they really mean, and why DNA alone never solves a case.

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Suzanne Bell is Emeritus Professor of Forensic Science at West Virginia University, United States. She served on the National Commission on Forensic Science. In addition to numerous scientific publications and books, she has written multiple editions of Forensic Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques (5th edition, CRC Press, 2019) and Forensic Chemistry (3rd edition, CRC Press, 2022).

John M. Butler is based at the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). He is one of the most highly cited authors in forensic science and legal medicine and an internationally recognized expert in forensic DNA typing. He is the author of the leading textbooks in forensic DNA typing and served for many years as Associate Editor of Forensic Science International: Genetics.