Forensic Science Evidence, Clues, and Investigation

Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-A rich compilation of current criminal-investigation techniques. Methods used to identify murder weapons and victims, and locate and identify fingerprints, shoe prints, and even tools and vehicles used to commit crimes are meticulously examined. Nods to historical techniques lead to descriptions of forensic specialties such as anthropology, ballistics, entomology, geology, linguistics, odontology, serology, and toxicology. Steps in investigations are detailed and the accounts somewhat dry. Black-and-white photographs are matter of fact except for a few showing severed human hands and fingers and one of maggots on a dead animal. This is as thorough an overview as can be found anywhere for laypeople. Those who want more will find it in the excellent bibliography and list of "Forensic Science Websites." Cyber Crimes defines the many types of viruses to which any computer may fall victim and distinguishes between hackers, crackers, and phreaks who just love a challenge, and cyber terrorists who seek to cause as much damage as possible. Their efforts and police and government detection methods are given parallel descriptions. Since anyone who uses a computer in any aspect of daily life is a potential victim of today's clever computer criminals, books such as this are vital to increase awareness of dangers. Books, periodical articles, and Web sites in the lengthy bibliography are timely. Average-quality, black-and-white photographs are scattered throughout both titles. Two clear, informative entries.-Ann G. Brouse, Big Flats Branch Library, NY Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.