The Evidence Trail

In this episode, we head to Brazil to explore the science of crime scene reconstruction with senior forensic specialist Andrei Portinho.

Andrei has built a distinguished career in forensic investigation, publishing research on crime scene reconstruction, presenting his work at professional congresses, and helping advance forensic science in Brazil. With a new book set for release later this year, he is also a leading voice in forensic education, sharing insights with audiences across YouTube and Instagram.

Together, we discuss how investigators reconstruct events from physical evidence, the challenges of complex crime scenes, the role of forensic science in uncovering the truth, and some of the most important lessons Andrei has learned throughout his career.

Whether you're fascinated by true crime, forensic science, or the meticulous process of turning evidence into answers, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Follow Andrei Portinho on YouTube and Instagram: @portinho.peritoforense.

 

I'm heading to CrimeCon London 2026 and YOU are invited! Clear your calendar for the 3rd and 4th of October 2026 because the ultimate true crime event is back - bigger, bolder and more gripping than ever. Head to CrimeCon.co.uk to secure your tickets - and don't forget to use my code EVIDENCE for 10% off. Hope to see you there. 

In this episode of The Evidence Trail, I’m joined by Emily Gilbey, a forensic science graduate with a deep passion for tackling wildlife crime through science and conservation. Alongside her work for the NHS, Emily volunteers with Wildlife ACT, a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting Africa’s endangered species and supporting frontline conservation efforts.

Together, we explore the growing threat of wildlife crime, the role forensic science plays in investigating offences against endangered animals, and the challenges faced by those working to protect vulnerable species. Emily also shares insights from her conservation work, the realities of wildlife protection on the ground, and why raising awareness of wildlife crime has never been more important.

I'm heading to CrimeCon London 2026 and YOU are invited! Clear your calendar for the 3rd and 4th of October 2026 because the ultimate true crime event is back - bigger, bolder and more gripping than ever. Head to CrimeCon.co.uk to secure your tickets - and don't forget to use my code EVIDENCE for 10% off. Hope to see you there. 

In this episode of The Evidence Trail, we’re joined by special guest Jodie, a digital forensic examiner.

We explore the different career pathways into forensic science—whether you’re coming from a traditional science background or a complete novice. Jodie offers practical advice for students and aspiring professionals, including how to stand out in applications, what skills employers are really looking for, and how to gain relevant experience.

Whether you’re considering a future in forensics or just curious about the field, this episode is packed with insights, honest reflections, and actionable tips to help you take your next step.

 

I'm heading to CrimeCon London 2026 and YOU are invited! Clear your calendar for the 3rd and 4th of October 2026 because the ultimate true crime event is back - bigger, bolder and more gripping than ever. Head to CrimeCon.co.uk to secure your tickets - and don't forget to use my code EVIDENCE for 10% off. Hope to see you there. 

Welcome to Be the Detective, the immersive spin-off from The Evidence Trail.

In this series, the roles are reversed. Instead of hearing the conclusions, you’ll step into the investigation itself. Each episode invites you to follow a case as it unfolds—listening carefully, gathering details, and piecing together the truth from the clues left behind.

These stories are inspired by my own experiences as a crime scene investigator, but there’s a twist: the cases you’ll hear take place in a time before forensic science became the cornerstone of modern investigations. As you follow these cases, you’ll have that modern knowledge at your disposal, highlighting just how vital forensic science has become in solving crimes.

While you listen, you can make notes, track the evidence, and form your own theories—or simply follow along in your head. You can play alone, or work together with friends, comparing conclusions and challenging each other’s instincts.

The question is simple: can you gather the clues, connect the dots, and solve the case before the truth is revealed?

It’s time to step into the scene.

It’s time to Be the Detective.

 

I'm heading to CrimeCon London 2026 and YOU are invited! Clear your calendar for the 3rd and 4th of October 2026 because the ultimate true crime event is back - bigger, bolder and more gripping than ever. Head to CrimeCon.co.uk to secure your tickets - and don't forget to use my code EVIDENCE for 10% off. Hope to see you there. 

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.

 

I'm heading to CrimeCon London 2026 and YOU are invited! Clear your calendar for the 3rd and 4th of October 2026 because the ultimate true crime event is back - bigger, bolder and more gripping than ever. Head to CrimeCon.co.uk to secure your tickets - and don't forget to use my code EVIDENCE for 10% off. Hope to see you there. 

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. 

 

I'm heading to CrimeCon London 2026 and YOU are invited! Clear your calendar for the 3rd and 4th of October 2026 because the ultimate true crime event is back - bigger, bolder and more gripping than ever. Head to CrimeCon.co.uk to secure your tickets - and don't forget to use my code EVIDENCE for 10% off. Hope to see you there. 

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/

 

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. 

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

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