National Institute Of Justice Reports

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has welcomed the report by the National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academy of Sciences entitled, Strengthening the National Institute of Justice, released on July 2, 2010. The report offers a significant blueprint for NIJ to move forward as the premier federal science agency focusing on the research, development and evaluation of crime and justice topics. On July 22, 2010, I was sworn in as the Director of the National Institute of Justice. Never before in the history of the Institute has the position of Director been filled by someone with a Ph.D. in criminology and criminal justice and with extensive research experience. Some have called this a turning point for the field and it is a clear indication that science is and will be an important part of the mission of NIJ, the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and the Department of Justice as a whole.

Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.