Significance of the Law of Progressive Change in Forensic Investigation

 

The Importance of the Law of Progressive Change in Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Science Laboratories 

Introduction

    The Law of Progressive Change holds significant importance in both crime scene investigation and forensic science laboratory practices. This principle recognizes that various aspects of evidence and the investigative process can undergo transformations over time, influencing the accuracy and reliability of forensic findings. 

Law of Progressive Change

            The Law of Progressive Change states that everything in the  Universe undergoes changes as time progresses. This principle holds significant importance in forensic science, particularly when dealing with criminal investigations, crime scenes, and related objects, as they can all undergo transformations that may render them unrecognizable. For example, let's consider a scenario where a crime is committed outdoors, and evidence such as footprints or tire tracks are left at the scene. Over time, weather conditions like rain or wind can erode or distort these impressions, making it challenging for forensic experts to accurately analyze and interpret the evidence. Similarly, in cases involving the decomposition of human remains, the postmortem changes that occur with time can significantly alter the condition of the body, making identification and cause of death determination more complex.  

Let's explore its significance in both contexts with suitable examples:

Significance of the Law of Progressive Change in Crime Scene Investigation:

 

a. Preservation of Evidence: The Law of Progressive Change emphasizes the need for timely and proper collection and preservation of evidence. Certain types of evidence, such as biological materials or volatile substances, can degrade or evaporate over time, making it crucial for investigators to collect and store evidence promptly to ensure its integrity.

Example: In cases involving biological evidence, such as bloodstains or DNA samples, prompt collection and preservation are essential to prevent degradation, which could hinder accurate analysis and identification of suspects.

b. Weather and Environmental Impact: Weather conditions and environmental factors can alter the appearance and distribution of evidence at a crime scene. Rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations can erase or distort crucial clues.

Example: In an outdoor crime scene fingerprints, footprints or tire tracks may be washed away or blurred by rain, making it challenging for investigators to establish the movement of suspects or vehicles.

Significance of the Law of Progressive Change in Forensic Science Laboratories:

 

a. Forensic Analysis of Decomposing Evidence: In cases involving human remains or biological evidence, the Law of Progressive Change necessitates specialized analysis to account for postmortem changes or decomposition.

Example: In forensic anthropology, experts analyze skeletal remains and take into consideration postmortem changes such as taphonomic processes and bone weathering to determine the individual's age, sex, and potential cause of death.

b. Analyzing Altered Materials: The law highlights the need for adapting analytical methods in the laboratory to handle altered materials. For instance, degraded DNA may require specialized techniques for successful analysis.

Example: When analyzing DNA from degraded or old samples, forensic scientists use advanced methods like mini-STRs (short tandem repeats) to overcome challenges posed by DNA degradation.

c. Revisiting Cold Cases: The Law of Progressive Change encourages investigators and forensic scientists to reexamine cold cases periodically. New advancements in technology and forensic methodologies may provide fresh insights and solutions to previously unsolvable cases.

Example: In a cold case involving a decades-old unsolved murder, forensic experts may use improved fingerprinting techniques or DNA analysis to revisit evidence and identify potential suspects.

 Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Law of Progressive Change plays a critical role in crime scene investigation and forensic science laboratory practices. By understanding and accounting for the dynamic nature of evidence and its potential alterations over time, investigators and forensic experts can ensure accurate and reliable analyses, ultimately contributing to the pursuit of truth and justice within the criminal justice system.