What contributions did Bertillon, Vollmer, and Locard make to the development of criminal investigation techniques?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Alphonse Bertillon developed the Bertillon system, the first attempt at criminal identification that was considered reliable and accurate. It was based on the theory that humans differ in the exact measurements of their bodies and that the sum of these measurements yields a characteristic formula for each individual.

Edmond Locard’s exchange principle asserts that when any person comes into contact with an object or other person, a cross-transfer of evidence will occur. His theory is today widely regarded as the cornerstone of the forensic sciences.

August Vollmer made important contributions to the development of criminalistics and investigative techniques. He instituted a formal training program to ensure that his officers properly collected and preserved criminal evidence and he used outside scientists to assist in investigations. He also established the first full forensic laboratory. Vollmer’s efforts to establish a relationship between his police department and the University of California led other scientists to get involved in forensic science and eventually resulted in the appearance of courses in forensics as part of the biochemistry curriculum at the University of California at Berkeley.