Negative forensic evidence can be defined as the failure to find a trace after looking for it. Such evidence is often dismissed by referring to the aphorism “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” However, this reasoning can be misleading in the context of forensic science. This commentary is designed to help forensic scientists understand the probative value of negative forensic evidence.
When does absence of evidence constitute evidence of absence?
Journal: Forensic Science International
Published: 2018
Primary Author: William C. Thompson
Secondary Authors: Nicholas Scurich
Type: Publication
Research Area: Implementation and Practice
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