Trace Evidence Symposium 2009

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August 2-7, 2009
Clearwater Beach, FL

Help NIJ and the FBI's Laboratory Division enhance the inclusion of research and casework in the field of trace evidence by presenting at the 2009 Trace Evidence Symposium. Abstracts must be received October 15, 2008 by 5:00 p.m. eastern time.

Trace evidence — a diverse forensic discipline — includes analysis of paint, glass, hair, fibers, particulate matter, botanicals, arson/fire debris, explosives and impression evidence, among others. Trace evidence is rarely the only evidence available in an investigation, but identifying the origin of foreign material can be powerful evidence in a case.

To explore and improve the use of trace evidence throughout the criminal justice system, NIJ and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Laboratory Division hosted the first Trace Evidence Symposium in August 2007. Participants attended educational workshops, listened to plenary sessions and case presentations, and learned more about the field.

NIJ plans to host additional symposia and will post details here when available.

Who Should Attend

The Trace Evidence Symposium will benefit the wide spectrum of professionals who investigate and solve crime:

• Trace evidence examiners
• Prosecutors
• Defense attorneys
• Violent crime investigators

The Symposium will also give lab administrators, policymakers and other relevant stakeholders a valuable opportunity to network and share information about their work, the challenges they face and the solutions they have found.