Laura Sherman

1
Forensic Geology

• Laura Sherman
• March 12, 2002

Knowledge of Geology. Practical but limited.
Tells at a glance different soils from each
other. After walks has shown me splashes upon
his trousers, and told me by their colour and
consistence in what part of London he had
received them.
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What is Forensic Geology?

• Use of earth materials as evidence in criminal
  and civil investigations and court cases
• History
• Fundamental tenant of forensic geology
• Rely upon
• Sufficient sample material
• Investigator collection of sample material
• Existence of rare materials and diversity

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How are comparisons made?

• Questioned vs. control samples
• Comparison methods
• Color, density, size
• Microscopic identification
• Refractive Index
• Chemical methods
• X-ray diffraction

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Physical Evidence

• Soil
• Rocks
• Fossils (macro and micro)
• Artificial/Commercial Materials

5
Why is forensic geology important?

• Where did this sample come from?
• What is the probability that it is specific to
  one area?

• Key evidence in criminal and civil cases
• Capital crimes
• Theft and burglary cases
• Oil spills and environmental regulation
  enforcement