Reading Assignment for Section 4

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 4: Forensic Science in Drug Cases.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll explore the scientific tools and methods used in drug identification and evidence analysis. You’ll learn how forensic experts ensure the integrity of evidence through best practices and address modern challenges like synthetic opioids and dark web trafficking. By the end, you’ll understand how forensic science supports law enforcement and legal processes in addressing complex drug crimes.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 4: Forensic Science in Drug Cases

• SLO 1: Explain the scientific principles and technologies, including GC-MS, handheld spectrometers, and toxicological testing, that underpin drug identification, overdose investigations, and evidence analysis.
• SLO 2: Describe best practices for evidence collection, preservation, and chain of custody to ensure the integrity and admissibility of physical, biological, and digital evidence in drug-related cases.
• SLO 3: Analyze the unique challenges posed by new drug trends, such as synthetic opioids, counterfeit pharmaceuticals, and dark web trafficking, and evaluate how forensic methods address these issues.
• SLO 4: Assess the role of forensic experts, including chemists, toxicologists, and digital analysts, in interpreting evidence, presenting findings in court, and meeting legal standards like Daubert and Frye for admissibility.
• SLO 5: Evaluate the intersection of forensic science and law enforcement in drug cases, focusing on the use of advanced techniques to meet the burden of proof, ensure justice, and address the complexities of modern drug crimes.

You are welcome to print a copy of pages from this Open Educational Resource (OER) book for your personal use. Please note that mass distribution, commercial use, or the creation of altered versions of the content for distribution are strictly prohibited. This permission is intended to support your individual learning needs while maintaining the integrity of the material.

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