From: jcs
The evolution of technology over the past two decades has significantly enhanced the efficiency of forensic investigations [00:00:30]. This progress allows for the examination of crucial components that previously would have taken weeks or even months to process [00:00:40].
Key Technological Components
Internet Search History
Internet search history is a critical piece of evidence in building a criminal case [00:00:49]. It can reveal many aspects of a suspect’s personality that might otherwise remain hidden [00:00:54]. In some instances, this data can be more effective than information obtained during a full confession [00:00:59].
- Case Example: Stephen McDaniel
- Stephen McDaniel’s internet search history showed a significant amount of time spent watching pornography with themes of violence and torture [00:01:07].
- He also conducted repeated searches on topics like “how to commit sexual assault” and variations of “how to molest sleeping girl” [00:01:14].
- Forensic analysis suggests that excessive exposure to online pornography can lead to desensitization to sexual activity, building a tolerance to traditional forms of sex and potentially driving an individual to seek more potent stimuli [00:01:26]. For McDaniel, this online activity reportedly escalated to planning and carrying out acts he viewed [00:01:40].
Digital Devices and Media
Digital devices, such as flash drives, can yield significant evidence in criminal investigations.
- Case Example: Stephen McDaniel
- Hundreds of pictures of the victim, Lauren Giddings, were discovered on Stephen McDaniel’s flash drive [00:37:25].
- Multiple video recordings taken inside the victim’s apartment were also found on his flash drive [00:37:31].
Surveillance Evidence
The investigation process and surveillance evidence can involve physical monitoring and recording.
- Case Example: Stephen McDaniel
- Stephen McDaniel filmed Lauren Giddings as she left and returned to her apartment at various times [00:03:10].
Forensic DNA Testing
DNA analysis plays a crucial role in linking suspects to crime scenes and identifying victims or weapons.
- Case Example: Stephen McDaniel
- A hacksaw found in a supply closet of the apartment complex was marked with what was later identified as Lauren Giddings’ blood through DNA testing [00:37:34].
- The packaging for the exact same hacksaw was found in Stephen McDaniel’s apartment [00:37:42].
- Detectives attempted to use the presence of Stephen’s hair at the scene as evidence [00:27:18]. However, since Stephen had entered the victim’s apartment after her death with her friends, this could nullify its use as damning evidence, a fact Stephen, as a law student, would likely have been aware of [00:27:31].
Impact on Investigations
The use of technology, particularly digital forensics and DNA analysis, provides irrefutable evidence that can lead to confessions or plea deals [00:37:47]. Even when interrogation techniques, such as those used in criminal investigations, prove ineffective against a suspect’s performance, overwhelming technological evidence can lead to conviction [00:37:14].