Crime scenes often contain bloodstains, and bloodstain analysts offer their interpretations as “scientific” evidence in criminal cases. However, a new report published in the August 2021 edition of Forensic Science International says bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA)...
Violent Crimes
Courts allowing ‘junk science’ as evidence, study concludes
Scientists say judges across the United States fail to keep unreliable psychological and IQ tests from being used as evidence, resulting in junk science in courtrooms. The research says such tests can influence juries and judges whether it’s used in bail hearings or...
Standing your ground when an intruder enters your home
You want your home to be a comfortable, safe place. Unfortunately, the threat of an intruder is always present. But if you have firearms, you might feel equipped to protect yourself and those around you.Hopefully, you will never feel the need to fire your weapon at...
Are there external factors that lead to acts of violence?
Like most people, you are probably familiar with some criminal laws within the United States. But if you find yourself in a position where you face accusations of committing a violent crime, you might have questions about what led to your situation, when your legal...
Why is the “Stand Your Ground” law so controversial?
An argument at a gas station escalated, and in a matter of moments a shove to the ground lead to a bullet in the chest. Sound like an overreaction? Well, that’s what Florida law aims to find out.In late August, Michael Drejka was none too pleased with Markeis...
Florida Uber driver killed a man but may not face charges
Last month, Uber driver Robert Westlake was driving down a dark, empty roadway in Polk County. Suddenly, an aggressive driver in a pick-up truck appeared in his rearview mirror. The driver tailgated Westlake for a minute, then swerved in front of the Uber and slammed...
Is it possible to commit a crime in your sleep?
A few weeks ago, the reboot of the hit 90s TV sitcom “Roseanne” was cancelled after its star, Roseanne Barr, tweeted offensive, racist comments on Twitter. After the incident, the comedian claimed that her behavior was a side effect of having taken the common sleep...
Stand your ground changes leave defendants facing uncertainty
Florida is one of approximately two dozen states in the nation to have implemented a stand your ground law. While the bill has always been controversial, it became the subject of heavy criticism during the Trayvon Martin shooting in 2012.Last year, lawmakers revised...
Vehicular homicide convictions come with harsh penalties
Vehicular homicide is defined as a killing of another human being as a result of driving in a reckless manner. It also includes the death of unborn children in the definition per the 2017 Florida statute. The interesting thing about vehicular homicide is that these...
Know your rights if you’re accused of a homicide in Florida
You didn't intend to harm anyone when you were attacked in your home. You fought off the person, thinking he or she was trying to hurt you. It turned out to be a horrible prank, but the person that was paid to scare you didn't get away with his life. Now, you're...