The Kodak Syndrome: Risks and Opportunities Created by Decentralization of Forensic Capabilities. Issue 1 (5th July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Casey, Eoghan; Ribaux, Olivier; Roux, Claude
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic sciences. Volume 64:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 127
• Page End: 136
• Publication Date: 2018-07-05
• Subjects: forensic science -- forensic intelligence -- problem‐oriented policing -- intelligence‐led strategies -- knowledge management -- systematic knowledge reuse -- big data analysis -- Kodak syndrome; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Gerechtelijke geneeskunde; Gerechtelijke chemie; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; 363.2505
• DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13849
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-1198

Abstract

Abstract: Forensic science laboratories are being challenged by the expanding decentralization of forensic capabilities, particularly for digital traces. This study recommends laboratories undertake digital transformations to capitalize on the decentralization movement, develop a more comprehensive understanding of crime and security‐relevant problems, and play a more central role in problem‐solving collaboratively with law enforcement organizations and other stakeholders. A framework for the bilateral transfer of information and knowledge is proposed to magnify the impact of forensic science laboratories on abating crime, strengthening security, and reinforcing the criminal justice system. To accomplish digital transformations, laboratories require personnel with different expertise, including investigative reasoning, knowledge codification, data analytics, and forensic intelligence. Ultimately, this study encourages managers, educators, researchers, and policymakers to look beyond the usefulness of forensic results for solving individual investigations, and to realize the value of combined forensic knowledge and intelligence for developing broader strategies to deal with crime in digitalized society.