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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989 Questions

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Last Answer on July 21, 2022

Best Rated

Would there be DNA left if someone used a forge and turned a murder weapon (say a knife) into something else, or maybe just folded the steel multiple times?

Asked by RDSBandit about 9 years ago

I'm fairly sure that the high temperatures used in melting metal would destroy any DNA.

795 Votes

Can you test for how long dna evidence is present. Like if I cut myself on accident three days ago could you time stamp that without me telling you how long ago the accident happened.

Asked by PF about 9 years ago

No. There is no time stamp on DNA, so far as I know.

795 Votes

So you wanna be a Forensic Scientist?

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Do firearms have a unique spray pattern when fired? Something similar to a fingerprint?

Asked by Marco over 8 years ago

No. You might be able to estimate muzzle to target distance from a spray pattern, but not firearm type or brand.

794 Votes

An HVAC condensate leak resolved 1mth prior yet occupant complained of 'worms' & 'biting bugs' entering via the air vents. Photo enlargement an assumed mold/debri pile in pan looks to be decomposing carcass. https://photos.shutterfly.com/full/6232696

Asked by Sleepy almost 9 years ago

I doubt I can help you but I'll try to get the pic.

794 Votes

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How long would it take for a deceased body to drop below 32 degrees centigrade if they were in good health previously and the ambient temp was 17 degrees centigrade. Would the body be cold and blue to touch inside 2 hours?

Asked by Iain almost 9 years ago

I'm sorry but I have no idea. That's a question for a pathologist. Sorry I couldn't help!

793 Votes

What are some of the difficult parts of this job

Asked by Angel almost 9 years ago

Being 'on call' and knowing you can be interrupted at any moment of the day and have to go to a crime scene, even if it's the middle of the night or a holiday. I've also had to change vacations because I have to testify in a trial. I hate that. 

793 Votes

Hello, my name is Maria and I'm currently a High School senior. For my college and career project I need to interview someone in my field of interest which is forensics. Is it possible I could interview you through FaceTime or something? Thank you:)

Asked by mariataipe1523 almost 9 years ago

Sure, send me your email address. If you don't want to post it here you can email me through my website: www.lisa-black@live.com.

791 Votes

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