DNA – Our Unique Blueprint

DNA and fingerprints are unique to each individual, much like a signature that cannot be faked. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is often described as the “blue print of life,” because it contains all the information that an organism requires to function and for
reproduction. Each molecule contains a
genetic code that is specific to one person, except in the case of identical twins.

THE TRACKS THAT ARE LEFT BEHIND

Fingerprints are a highly reliable method of identifying people. They are used in the
process of obtaining identity documents and
passports; providing biometric security
(such as access control to secure areas or systems); identifying unknown deceased persons; and playing a crucial role in criminal investigations by confirming or disproving a person’s identity.

Newsletter Nov/Dec 2024

Read the latest news from the Wesco team as we close the year of 2024. It’s been a wonderful year.
* Read a word from our CEO and founder, Wessie van der Westhuizen.
* We Welcome new members to the team so be sure to see who they are!
* Take a sneak peek into 2025 with all the training we offer!

Unsolved Mysteries: South Africa

Cold cases can be revived with advanced forensic techniques and expert investigation. If these cases employed Wesco Forensics, chances would have been bigger in finding these culprits.

The Silent Witness: Unlocking Hidden Clues in Forensic Science

In the world of forensic science, even the smallest trace of evidence can speak volumes. Silent Witness explores how cutting-edge forensic techniques unlock hidden clues that often go unnoticed, providing a voice for the voiceless in high-profile criminal investigations.

Wesco Servamus August 2024

When a perpetrator tries to hide evidence of a crime, it is commonly referred to as “covering their tracks” such as when a burglar wipes his fingerprints with a cloth after breaking into a home. Although he believes that he has erased his traces, he might not realise that his shoe or vehicle’s tyre impressions can still connect him to the crime scene. These impressions are referred to as “pattern evidence” because they create unique patterns. Shoes and boots leave distinct prints and impressions based on their brand, style and size.

Wesco Servamus July 2024

To prove a person’s guilt, a prosecutor needs to demonstrate that the evidence introduced in court is directly linked to the evidence collected at the site/scene of a purported crime. The prosecution must explain that the handling of the evidence was conducted appropriately, without any contamination or tampering. Failure by law enforcement to handle the evidence correctly opens the door for challenges, asserting potential tampering, unreliable test results or the possibility that
evidence was intentionally placed at the
crime scene.

Wesco Servamus June 2024

Crime scene examiners use sophisticated
methods to retrieve physical evidence from
crime scenes. This includes using various
forensic light sources operating at different
frequencies and employing diverse chemicals to identify and validate the existence of evidence. UV lights are also used to unveil hidden evidence that is not visible to the naked eye. However, the mere collection of physical evidence is insufficient – to hold significance, the evidence must be legally obtained and undergo proper legal processing.The unequivocal identification of physical evidence at the crime scene forms the foundation of a successful investigation.

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