Behind the Bastards Part One: The Bastards of Forensic Science
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Apr 23, 2024 Dr. Kaveh Hoda exposes flaws in forensic 'science' like unreliable micro expressions and eyewitness accounts leading to wrongful convictions. The discussion critiques fingerprint analysis errors and biased forensic practices, including a case of wrongful accusation. Biases in forensic analyses are explored, along with a disturbing assault case. The podcast also delves into the flawed practice of bite mark analysis, highlighting cases of innocent individuals wrongly sentenced based on flawed evidence.
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The Case of Steven Cowans
- Steven Cowans was convicted based on flawed fingerprint evidence, spent six years in prison, and was later exonerated by DNA testing.
- Tragically, he was shot and killed three years after his release.
Fingerprint Matching Limitations
- Fingerprint matching, while more reliable than other forensic methods, is not foolproof and shouldn't be the sole basis for conviction.
- There's a distinction between the science of fingerprints and the application of fingerprint analysis in forensics.
Early Use of Fingerprints
- In 1911, Thomas Jennings was the first person in the U.S. convicted using fingerprint evidence, which was found on wet paint.
- Fingerprints have been used for identification since ancient times, but their use in criminal justice is relatively recent.