Commercial fraud, forged documents, counterfeit products and adulterated food substances are commonly encountered in criminal, civil, private and internal investigations. Public safety and security, and trademark protection critically hinge on the timely forensic detection of items such as counterfeit drugs, fake medical devices and tampered security seals. Until recently, members of the public harboring suspicions that a will was forged or tampered with, or their food adulterated by their domestic helper had limited recourse to forensic services, as commercial analytical labs typically do not accept such cases. The formation of The Forensic Experts Group in October 2013 has opened access for all parties to independent forensic examinations.
Though useful, DNA and fingerprint evidences usually provide answers only on “who” was involved. Answering other questions central to the investigation – the “what”, “when” and “how” of the event – requires the forensic examination of other types of physical evidence: trace evidence, marks and impressions, damages and questioned documents.
Participants will learn through the sharing of case studies how different types of physical evidence were used to investigate fraud, forgery and adulteration cases.