Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientist

LIsa Black

Cape Coral, FL

Female, 49

I spent the five happiest years of my life in a morgue. As a forensic scientist in the Cleveland coroner’s office I analyzed gunshot residue on hands and clothing, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, DNA, blood and many other forms of trace evidence, as well as crime scenes. Now I'm a certified latent print examiner and CSI for a police department in Florida. I also write a series of forensic suspense novels, turning the day job into fiction. My books have been translated into six languages.

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Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

What is the point in giving a poly graph if it’s not even admissible in court except for in specific circumstances? (Usually if only the defense and prosecutors agree)

Asked by Zarah almost 6 years ago

That's not something I have anything to do with--it's the detectives' and/or attorneys' decision. I supposed they think if they get results that are really surprising it can hint if they're looking at the right people or not.

What has been discovered or invented by you or other people who work in the field of forensics?
What is something I could tell my class and teachers that would surprise them about forensics?

Asked by Ella over 5 years ago

"Touch" DNA or "Contact DNA" can obtain a profile from an item that someone merely touched: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touch_DNA

I would say Rapid DNA, which can provide a profile in less than two hours and used in the battlefield, but that's been around since 2014.

And though you've seen it on TV every day for 50 years, it has not been possible for the average latent print examiner to scan in a fingerprint and search every person who's ever been fingerprinted, including job applicants and military. Most databases would be just county or state wide, and may or may not include job applicants (or staff) depending on the preferences of the agency, and certainly not the military, ICE or Interpol. At my department we only got the ability to remotely search the FBI database last year.

Hope that helps!

Do you work with cops on the regular?

Asked by Ronna about 6 years ago

I work in a police department, so yes, work with them every day.Though my immediate coworkers and immediate supervisor are all civilians.

CN you really find anyone like in NCIS?

Asked by May about 6 years ago

Nope!

What do you think about the BLM?

Asked by Kaylee almost 6 years ago

I think I am an expert in some areas of forensic science. I am not an expert in law, public safety policy or our political system.

Do people when you give them your email when they are asking homework or school work questions ever really email you?

Asked by Conner about 6 years ago

Sometimes. Perhaps 10% of the time.

Last question. I'm sorry, these were for my class.
If you were just choosing a career field, would you still choose to be a forensic scientist? Why or why not?

Asked by Jessie over 4 years ago

Yes, absolutely. I can’t think of anything I’d enjoy as much.