Blood Evidence: How DNA is Revolutionizing the Way We Solve Crimes - Book Review

Science News, June 21, 2003

HENRY C. LEE AND FRANK TIRNADY

Lee is best known for his testimony in the O.J. Simpson trial several years ago. However, he was also the chief criminalist for Connecticut for more than 20 years. During that time, he helped introduce forensic DNA analysis as a routine and reliable category of evidence in criminal and civil cases, as well as a helpful tool in identifying human remains, tracking diseases, and establishing paternity. With writer Tirnady, Lee takes readers behind the yellow police tape at crime scenes to show them how genetic evidence is collected from cigarette butts and bloodstains. They explain the principles and science behind DNA testing. Moreover, they tell the history of how this science evolved over a short period and the implications for it in the future. Perseus Publng, 2003, 418 p., hardcover, $26.00.