Forensics
Forensic expert demands meeting on Knutby case
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Sweden's chief prosecutor refuses to seek a retrial in the notorious 2004 Knutby murder, despite new details from an investigation. Forensic technician Sonny Björk challenges the decision and demands a meeting to present unanalyzed evidence. Autopsy assistant Bo Ask backs the criticism by noting no blood at a gunshot wound.
The Department of Public Works has handed over a new forensic laboratory to the South African Police Service in KwaZulu-Natal, aimed at reducing a backlog of over 27,000 exhibits. The facility is expected to fast-track forensic analysis and strengthen investigative capacity. Officials note it requires additional equipment and staff to become fully operational.
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One of the notable cases in a recent review of forensic bryology—covered in our earlier article on moss solving crimes—is the 2009 Burr Oak Cemetery scandal in Alsip, Illinois. A small clump of moss provided crucial evidence when employees were accused of relocating graves to resell plots. Forensic analysis identified the moss species and estimated its burial time, linking remains to recent disturbances and contributing to convictions in 2015.
Researchers at Maynooth University in Ireland have created a novel electrochemical process to recover fingerprints from fired bullet casings, a breakthrough long considered impossible in forensics. The safe, non-toxic technique reveals hidden ridges on brass casings in seconds using mild voltage. This could allow investigators to link evidence directly to suspects rather than just weapons.