About the Author

Michael V. Martinez is a Forensic Scientist and Technical Leader in charge of the Trace Evidence Section at the Bexar County Criminal Investigation Laboratory in San Antonio, Texas. He has a Masters of Science Degree in Forensic Science (MSFS) and an extensive array of specialty training (view certificates).

Mr. Martinez presides as president and founder of the International Association for Microanalysis (IAMA), on the board of directors for the Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS), serves on the education and training committee and vendor co-chair (2003) for the Technical Working Group for Fire and Explosives (TWGFEX), and developed the accredited academic degree program in Forensic Science for San Antonio College (SAC).

In addition, Mr. Martinez has also contributed extensively to the volunteer community. His experience would include serving as a Crisis Center suicide prevention counselor (1995-1996), American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (1984), American Red Cross Health and Safety Instructor (1991-1997), American Red Cross Disaster Services specialized technician and instructor (1993-Present) and American Red Cross Instructor Trainer (2000-Present).

Crime Laboratory

Pronounced: fo·ren·sic; (f'-rén-sik) Derived from the Latin word forensis or public, of a forum.

The term Forensic(s) has become a familiar word in the English language. When used as a noun, it is commonly associated in the collegiate arena to represent a public debate. Although, when used as an adjective with the sciences, it's colloquial use most frequently reflects its role in legal proceedings.

According to Marian-Webster, the first published origin of the word was in 1659. However, the history of forensic science can be traced far beyond. The exact origins of forensic science or medico-legal medicine can be traced back to ancient times. But the exact geographic location or scientific discipline for which forensics originated has been a topic of debate for many years. Historical scholars often look to China where the only known text dedicated to forensic medicine was discovered. The book was called Ming Yuen Shih Lu by Chich-ts'si and was published around the 6th century A.D.

The impact of forensic science on society and its evolution in the United States has a little more recent heritage. In fact, the modern medical-legal approach to criminal investigations in the United States originated from 12th century England when as king, Richard the 1st enacted the "Office of the Coroner".

As the population increased, so did crime and soon it became evident that an appointed person of advanced medical knowledge was needed, a physician. The first to implement this plan was Massachusetts who in 1877 adopted a statewide system requiring that the coroners office be replaced by the "Office of the Medical Examiner". Many states eventually followed suite.

As time progressed, so did technology. Much of the world's contribution in understanding criminal behavior through science became more readily accessible. It wasn't long before many law enforcement agencies began processing crime scene information previously overlooked by the medical examiner. This specialized breed of law enforcement personnel became known as forensic scientist or criminalist-(a highly educated and skilled individual proficient in the application of scientific techniques in collecting and analyzing physical evidence in criminal cases). The modern role of law enforcement and its blending with science eventually evolved into a discipline all its own. Some have created the pioneer works of Paul Kirk in emphasizing the importance of a skilled criminalist in assisting with a criminal investigation.