The Evidence Trail

The Silent Trail: When Plants Testify

In this episode of The Evidence Trail, forensic botanist Mark Spencer reveals how plants can become silent witnesses to crime. From analyzing species distribution to tracking regrowth patterns, he explains how vegetation can place suspects at specific locations and times. The episode highlights a remarkable case where a single leaf provided the crucial link needed to solve a murder, demonstrating the surprising power of forensic botany in modern investigations.

The Trail Through the Aftermath: The Untold Grenfell Mortuary Story

This episode takes you inside the forensic response to the Grenfell Tower fire. Former Metropolitan Police Operational Forensic Manager Andrew Langley reveals the realities of Disaster Victim Identification (DVI), mortuary examinations, and the unseen work carried out to identify victims and support justice.

We also explore the emotional and ethical challenges faced by those on the frontline, the lessons learned from handling one of the UK’s most devastating modern disasters, and the dedication of forensic teams working behind the scenes to bring closure to families and communities.

This might be an upsetting topic for some. Listener discretion is advised. 

The Trail You Never See: Following Digital Footprints

In this episode, we’re joined by Digital Forensic Investigator Jake for a fascinating look inside the world of digital forensics and the critical role it plays in modern criminal investigations.

We explore how Jake got into the field, what it really takes to build a career in digital forensics, and the skills and pathways available to those interested in working in unearthing digital traces left behind. Jake also shares insights into real investigations where digital evidence helped secure convictions, giving a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on how devices, data, and digital trails can become key pieces of evidence in the Criminal Justice procedure.

This episode also touches on the sensitive reality that some digital forensic work involves cases of sexual offences. If this raises difficult issues for you, support is available. In the UK, organisations such as Rape Crisis, Samaritans, Victim Support and Sexual Assault Referral Centres offer confidential support, and in the USA similar help can be accessed through national sexual assault hotlines and local crisis centres. You do not have to report a crime to access support. If you need emergency support, contact the emergency services immediately. 

Listener discretion is advised due to discussion of these real, sensitive issues.

🎙️ If you’ve ever wondered how digital evidence helps bring offenders to justice, or how to start a career in this important field, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Patterns of Violence - Understanding Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

What is Bloodstain Pattern Analysis? How do bloodstains differ? Is the science in Dexter anything like real life? All good questions, which I hope to answer in this Podcast!

Having trained with experts in the Netherlands and UK, I discuss the basics of BPA and give you some real examples of how this knowledge can be used at Crime Scenes. 

A great starting point for anyone about to study BPA, or just for those who are curious! 

For more info, please see:

https://www.iabpa.org/

https://www.spattered.co.uk/

https://www.bevelgardner.com/

 

Understanding Death - Inside the World of Autopsies

This podcast may be upsetting to those who have lost people close to you recently. I discuss the facination around death, the trauma that comes with it, and how we assist in an autopsy/post mortem. 

Crime Scene Investigation - What’s Been Happening

We begin a new season of The Crime Scene Investigator! In my first episode back behind the mic, I discuss what I've been up to recently, the news surrounding my department, and my first ever court case. 

 

If you have any questions for me, please head over to Twitter and message me - @CSIChrisGee

From Trace to Truth - How DNA is Recovered at Crime Scenes

I go into more depth about DNA than I have previously, and discuss methods on how to recover DNA samples from Crime Scenes. 

Hidden in Plain Sight - Developing Fingerprint Evidence

There are so many myths and expectations regarding fingerprints, and I aim to answer these in this podcast! Hope you enjoy it and learn a few things.

From Scene to Lab - Recovering Physical Evidence

Ever wondered how to recover an item as evidence, wonder no longer! In this episode I discuss the techniques we use to package some weird and wonderful exhibits. I feel I've said wonder too much...

From Lab to Courtroom - Five Pieces of Evidence That Can Convict

I catch up with previous guest Hayley and discuss the top 5 types of forensic evidence we collect, their positives and limitations, and which piece of evidence would be most useful in a court room.