The correct evaluation, presentation and interpretation of evidence –
particularly forensic evidence – is a critical aspect of the investigation and
prosecution of crime, especially crimes against the person such as murder,
serious assault, or sexual crimes. The need for accuracy and improvement in
this area has been highlighted by the recent media attention paid to DNA
profiling and by the Royal Commission on Miscarriages of Justice. Incorrect use
of evidence can and does lead to problems ranging from wasted police time
carrying out unnecessary forensic tests, through appeals against court rulings
due to inappropriate use of evidence in court, to possible miscarriages of
justice where a person is charged on the basis of "positive "
evidence without adequate consideration of "negative" evidence.
A multidisciplinary Centre for Forensic Statistics and Legal Reasoning has been
set up, drawing on skills in statistics, law and artificial intelligence from
the University of Edinburgh and Glasgow Caledonian University. The objectives of
the Centre are:
The Centre began its operations on 1 March 2001. Its current staff are:
Michael Bromby
David Lucy
Patricia McKellar
Two further appointments will be announced shortly.