C2ST in the News

As seen on TV: ‘CSI’ versus forensic science

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By Anthony Raap and Jennifer-Leigh Oprihory, Medill Reports

“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and other TV dramas have created unrealistic expectations that can swing jurors, law enforcement officials say. Defendants may walk free in cases that should be slam-dunk convictions.

This phenomenon, called the “CSI effect” in law enforcement, has left many investigators feeling frustrated.

Doug Seccombe, special agent for the FBI in Chicago, said many jurors don’t understand that television shows often don’t mimic reality.

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C2ST in the News

Declassified: The real story behind solving the crime

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By Anthony Raap and Jennifer-Leigh Oprihory, Medill Reports

Doug Seccombe couldn’t believe his eyes when he peered into 14-year-old Emmett Till’s metal coffin.

Fifty years after the black teen’s brutal murder in Mississippi for whistling at a white woman, Till’s remains were exhumed in 2005 at south suburban Burr Oak Cemetery.Because of how much time had elapsed, Seccombe, an FBI agent who specializes in forensic evidence, figured Till’s body would be skeletonized. But the remains were remarkably well preserved.

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Event

Crime, Evidence and the Law

Abstract: The Chicago FBI office will overview the FBI’s Evidence Response Team’s mission, training, and field work including their use of special forensic equipment and expertise. The talk will also highlight training requirements that ensure a high level of competence during the collection of evidence that can be introduced in courts throughout the U.S. and the World. Continue reading “Crime, Evidence and the Law”

C2ST in the News

X-rays reveal Picasso’s secret

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By Jennifer-Leigh Oprihory Medill News Serivce

Picasso’s “Old Guitarist” hides a past life of a former painting.

The Art Institute of Chicago x-rayed the painting to reveal the menagerie image underneath of a woman, child and animals.

The Illinois Institute of Technology, in conjunction with the Chicago Council on Science and Technology and Argonne National Laboratory, hosted a crossroads event Wednesday, bridging the art and science of understanding Picasso.

Continue reading “X-rays reveal Picasso’s secret”