A Laboratory Manual for Criminalistics: Introduction to Forensics for Law Enforcement Officers helps students develop a fundamental understanding of the process of forensics. The manual bridges the gap between learned material and practical application, challenging students to apply what they’ve learned in lectures to a laboratory environment. 

In Unit One, students are introduced to scientific and safety procedures, system conversions, substance separations, tools and devices used in the laboratory environment, and evidence evaluation and submission techniques. Unit Two explores firearms identification and labeling, ballistics and trace metal detection, serial number restoration, and crime scene sketching. Unit Three guides students through camera identification, labeling, and use. In the final unit, students learn about fingerprint classification and identification, as well as footprint evidence and casting techniques. The manual concludes with an optional project regarding serology and blood spatter analysis. 

The third edition of the manual features updated material in light of advances in technology and their impact on forensic procedures. 

Featuring straightforward and easy-to-understand instruction, A Laboratory Manual for Criminalistics is an ideal resource for courses in law enforcement and policing that include a laboratory component.

Aric Steven Frazier is a lecturer at Oakland City University, where he teaches courses in forensics, investigation, and criminal justice. He is a senior consultant at Frazier Reconstruction Services, specializing in traffic administration; crash reconstruction; law enforcement application, testing, and evaluation; law enforcement promotion testing and interview structure; and law enforcement policy writing and complete manual construction. Frazier earned his master’s degree in criminal justice and law enforcement administration from the University of Evansville, attended the Northwestern University Traffic Institute and the Institute of Police Technology and Management, and previously served as a police officer for the Princeton Police Department.