#84: Forensics - A Different Kind of Science, and Here's Why

Crime and the Courtroom

In Episode 84 of Crime and the Courtroom, John Collins explores why forensic science is distinct from traditional sciences and often misunderstood. He examines how forensic methods—such as fingerprint and bullet comparisons—are rooted in stochastics, the study of randomness and unique patterns. Addressing past criticisms, Collins argues that forensic science is a leading preventer of wrongful convictions, not a cause of them. He calls for forensic professionals to uphold ethical standards and embrace their field’s scientific legitimacy. This episode provides crucial insights for those interested in forensic evidence, justice, and the evolving role of expert testimony.

Season: 5 Episode: 84 Duration: 43:22

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REFERENCED RESOURCES

Stochastics (Journal By Taylor & Francis)

Modern Stochastics: Theory and Application (Journal)

ABOUT YOUR HOSTJohn Morrey Collins is a leadership and expertise coach specializing in working with clients in authoritative, high-stakes occupations, but with a primary emphasis on serving leaders, professionals, and organizations that support our complicated systems of criminal and civil justice. John started his private practice, Critical Victories, in 2013 after retiring his award-winning, 20-year career as a forensic laboratory scientist and executive administrator, having served as the Director of Forensic Science for the State of Michigan. His forensic technical expertise was in the examination and testing of firearms and firearm-related evidence, having provided expert courtroom testimony in approximately 130 criminal trials, including death penalty cases and Daubert hearings. John is also the author of three books on forensic science and criminal justice reform. In 2022, he released his fourth book, “The New Superior – A Better Way to Be the One in Charge,” which is available in print and audio. John’s many career highlights include his part in the forensic investigation of the Atlanta serial bombings, which included the bombing of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, as well as his 2013 participation in a historic meeting with the US Attorney General and other firearm experts to discuss the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. John has a master’s degree in organizational management and is formally certified as a Senior HR Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In 2012, John was trained as a professional coach by the College of Executive Coaching, and he became certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach in 2022. He lives and works near Detroit, Michigan.

For more information and resources, please visit www.criticalvictories.com