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Articles 1 - 30 of 168
Full-Text Articles in Legal Studies
The Accuracy Of Free Ai Generated Image Detection Tools Compared To Human Judgment, Rachel Tsai
The Accuracy Of Free Ai Generated Image Detection Tools Compared To Human Judgment, Rachel Tsai
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
The rise of artificial intelligence has led to a surge in AI-generated images, creating new obstacles for forensic investigations. As synthetic images become increasingly realistic, distinguishing them from authentic content becomes more difficult. In forensic investigations, it is essential to prove the authenticity and integrity of digital evidence to maintain admissibility in court. Currently, there are various AI detection tools on the market; however, their accuracy and reliability remain uncertain. This study evaluates the effectiveness of several free AI-generated image-detection tools compared with judgments from unaided college students or recent graduates. Participants were asked to analyze a set of 30 …
The Necessity Of Human Taphonomy Facilities, Mia Frame
The Necessity Of Human Taphonomy Facilities, Mia Frame
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This review explores the question of whether human taphonomy facilities (HTFs) are necessary for forensic science research. These facilities are used for multiple facets of research including postmortem interval (PMI) estimation or time since death, entomology, taphonomy, and the study of volatile organic compounds. The use of human analogues like pigs and rabbits will also be addressed to show why taphonomic research on human remains must be done. It is important to look at the physical and logistical limitations of these facilities, as well as ethical limitations including religious beliefs and public perception. This article will conclude by examining future …
The Effects Of Pesticide-Treated Pork Meat On Insect Colonization: Implications For Postmortem Interval Estimation In Forensic Investigations, Alejandra Veja
The Effects Of Pesticide-Treated Pork Meat On Insect Colonization: Implications For Postmortem Interval Estimation In Forensic Investigations, Alejandra Veja
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Forensic entomologists estimate the postmortem interval (PMI) by analyzing insect colonization patterns on remains. Colonization can be influenced by factors such as state of decomposition, environment type, weather, and chemical exposure. Household products and pesticides may be used to conceal remains by delaying decomposition and preventing insect activity. Despite this, their impact on PMI estimation remains unclear. This study examined the effects of 98.11% DEET, 20% picaridin, and 20% IR3535 on insect colonization, compared to a control. Twelve boneless pork chops were placed outdoors in a suburban setting and monitored twice daily at 12-hour intervals. Results showed that high concentrations …
Rape Shield Laws: A Call For Reform, Ava Cunningham
Rape Shield Laws: A Call For Reform, Ava Cunningham
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Rape shield laws were originally created during the 1970s to prohibit the admission of a victim’s past sexual history as evidence in court. Such laws aimed to prevent prejudicial questioning that could alter the jury's perceptions. However, they are deeply rooted in gendered biases, do not ensure fairness in the courtroom, and fail to keep pace with advancing technology. This paper argues that a thorough reexamination of rape shield laws is necessary to address these limitations and achieve impartial legal outcomes. Authors of the justice community display widespread support for reform of such laws. Researchers such as Flowe et al. …
Diagnosing Mushroom Toxicities, Eetu Mäkinen
Diagnosing Mushroom Toxicities, Eetu Mäkinen
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Although mushroom poisonings or “mycetisms” occur more frequently than is commonly recognized, they are often misdiagnosed due to their relative rarity, diverse clinical presentations, and the broad chemical variety of the toxins involved. More than a hundred different mushroom-derived toxins have been identified to cause at least 14 different poisoning syndromes or “toxidromes”, several of which can result in death through means such as organ failure. Understanding the toxicology of these mushroom toxins is essential for diagnosis in both clinical and forensic settings. Modern analytical techniques, such as liquid-chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), have improved the …
The Prison Industrial Complex And The Exploitation Of Prisoners Through The 13th Amendment, Lindsey Adams
The Prison Industrial Complex And The Exploitation Of Prisoners Through The 13th Amendment, Lindsey Adams
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This paper analyzes the relationship between the government and the private prison industry, specifically examining how the exception clause in the Thirteenth Amendment permits conditions resembling modern-day slavery through exploitative prison labor. Neoliberalism and the War on Drugs have contributed to mass incarceration in the United States, which has led to an increase in prison labor. Mass incarceration has disproportionately affected people of color and those living in poverty. To address these issues, more intensive vetting processes are needed at all levels of law enforcement, particularly during hiring, to reduce racial bias and improve accountability.
Development Of Latent Prints On Glass After A Fire, Meg Ross
Development Of Latent Prints On Glass After A Fire, Meg Ross
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
In the United States, there is no standard procedure to collect fingerprint evidence from a fire. The goal of this research is to determine if fingerprints can survive a fire and can be developed using three different techniques. In previous research studies, some fingerprints were able to be recovered. In Australia, they found fingerprints were recoverable at 300℃ and 450℃ after using a cremation oven. However, O’Hagan (2018) claims that fingerprints start to degrade after 100℃ as fingerprints are made of 98% water. For this project, six bottles consisting of 30 fingerprints were put in a fire, with temperatures reading …
Detection Of Blood On Glazed Ceramic Tiles, Alexis Puente
Detection Of Blood On Glazed Ceramic Tiles, Alexis Puente
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This experiment tested how different bleach dilutions effectively remove blood from floor tiles and how they might affect the Kastle-Meyer (KM) presumptive blood test. Matte Calacatta 12 in. x 12 in. glazed ceramic tiles were used. Glazed tiles are considered non-porous on the surface but the ceramic body contains pores that can retain blood; this retained blood can be detected by the KM test. The bleach dilutions used to clean the tiles were 0% (water), 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Trial 1 tiles were cleaned during the day while Trials 2-5 were cleaned at night. After the tiles were dried, …
The Impact Of Stigmatization On Professional Responses And Support For Trafficked Youth: A Qualitative Content Analysis, Kate R. Sandoval
The Impact Of Stigmatization On Professional Responses And Support For Trafficked Youth: A Qualitative Content Analysis, Kate R. Sandoval
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Child trafficking is among the most underreported and misunderstood crimes that affects vulnerable populations. Trafficked youth are often criminalized by law enforcement because they are ill-equipped in identifying them, resulting in arrest and involvement in the system. Signs of victimization are overlooked by healthcare providers, who are typically the first to interact with trafficked youth. As a result, very few investigations are carried out, and victims are discouraged from seeking support. The role of stigma is important in understanding how perceptions and responses to trafficked youth are formed, which impacts their outcomes. This study examined how stigmatization influences professional responses …
Record Clearance: Practical And Essential Justice Reform, Brendan Krepchin
Record Clearance: Practical And Essential Justice Reform, Brendan Krepchin
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Record clearance is the process of expunging and reducing offenses listed on an individual’s Record of Arrests and Prosecutions (RAP). The current regime of laws surrounding the issue of record clearance is a patchwork of state laws that permit and restrict the process depending on the offense, the sentence, and multiple factors pertaining to the judicial process. The mere existence of a RAP sheet creates barriers to achieving any number of goals established at the individual or societal level. This article argues that record clearance should be universally proportional to circumstances across all levels of the justice system, as it …
Militarized Policing In Democratic Societies: Origins, Firearms Proliferation, Impacts, And The Erosion Of Democratic Governance, Carlos Alcantar
Militarized Policing In Democratic Societies: Origins, Firearms Proliferation, Impacts, And The Erosion Of Democratic Governance, Carlos Alcantar
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Police militarization has become a global trend in recent decades across many democratic societies, often justified as a necessary improvement in policing to address contemporary threats. This shift not only changes police agencies’ equipment but also their organizational structure, training, operations, and culture, raising concerns about its impact on democratic policing practices, public safety, and civil liberties. This study examines the historical and structural developments behind this trend, focusing on military-grade equipment transfers, firearms availability, and the global diffusion of militarized security models as key drivers. Using a qualitative comparative case analysis, the research finds that police militarization is shaped …
The Consequences Of Dobbs V. Jackson Women’S Health Organization, Kimber Garcia
The Consequences Of Dobbs V. Jackson Women’S Health Organization, Kimber Garcia
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization came into effect in 2022, and the right to get an abortion was withdrawn for many birthing people; abortion care was no longer protected federally, and states could make their own legislation. This work reviews abortion care procedures, abortion legislation history in the United States, how religion and sexism influence legislation, and the negative effects of antiabortion legislation. The research finds that antiabortion legislation that makes it difficult or illegal to get abortion care inflicts health risks upon birthing people as well as a fear of prosecution. This fear extends to medical professionals, burdening …
The Crippling Of Democracy: Electoral Accessibility, Voter Fraud, And Disabled Disenfranchisement, Diya Agrawal
The Crippling Of Democracy: Electoral Accessibility, Voter Fraud, And Disabled Disenfranchisement, Diya Agrawal
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
While the expansion of voting rights across race, class, and gender is a celebration of American democratic progress, this progress has always excluded disabled Americans. It was not until the late 20th century that the Voting Rights Act and Americans with Disabilities Act successfully codified provisions like voter assistance and large-print ballots. Today, disabled voters are once again silenced by state and federal governments. Conservative lawmakers push to restrict voter assistance, absentee ballots, and electronic voting, claiming that such accessibility made the 2020 election vulnerable to fraud and skewed its results. Analysis of current data and literature finds no evidence …
Differentiation Of Human Pubic And Underarm Hair Using Atr-Ftir Spectroscopy, Kris Weller
Differentiation Of Human Pubic And Underarm Hair Using Atr-Ftir Spectroscopy, Kris Weller
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This study investigates whether ATR-FTIR can differentiate human pubic and underarm hairs, either on its own or as a supplement to morphological examination via light microscopy. Determining somatic origin may provide useful context in criminal cases, especially in sexual assault cases. The morphological similarity between pubic and underarm hair means that these somatic regions are particularly in need of a more quantitative method of differentiation than the current qualitative approach. The ATR-FTIR spectra of pubic and underarm hairs collected from nine volunteers were not visually differentiable. Six peaks in the fingerprint region shared by all the spectra were selected and …
The Night Stalker: The Killer Who Learned To Kill, Briana Farias
The Night Stalker: The Killer Who Learned To Kill, Briana Farias
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Richard Ramirez’s criminal career can be best understood through Akers’ Social Learning Theory, which explains deviance as a learned behavior shaped by social interactions. This paper analyzes Ramirez’s childhood exposure to abuse, violent role models, and criminal reinforcement to demonstrate how his behavior may have developed over time. It draws on empirical studies demonstrating that social learning influences offenses such as adolescent drug abuse, gang affiliation, stalking, and sexual aggression. The analysis suggests Ramirez’s violence was not random, but the product of a social environment that rewarded violence. The paper concludes that understanding learned violence is essential for prevention efforts, …
Liquid Fire Accelerants' Effect On Blood Detectability, Genniltza Ramirez
Liquid Fire Accelerants' Effect On Blood Detectability, Genniltza Ramirez
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Five liquid fire accelerants were studied in their effects on blood detection in attempts to yield presumptive accelerant indicators to benefit fire scene investigators. The experiment involved burning different accelerant types via a 1:1 pig blood and accelerant ratio on cloth squares in trials of three, and then presumptively testing for blood using luminol. Luminol was selected for its sensitivity, subjectivity, and previous use in arson fire and thermal studies. For this study, accelerants were determined to have positive presumptive blood detection if detectable by camera for documentation. Presumptive blood detection of the accelerants resulted in: paint thinner with detection …
Chains Of Equity: How Nationwide Injunctions Are Unconstitutional, Irfan Mohamed
Chains Of Equity: How Nationwide Injunctions Are Unconstitutional, Irfan Mohamed
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Since the early judicial beginnings in the English Courts of Chancery, the principles of equity have guided judicial remedies for centuries. Modern American courts inherited these principles through reception statutes passed by newly independent states, which adopted English common law, including the concept of equity as a means of providing narrowly tailored remedies to resolve specific injuries. This paper examines the historical foundations of equity and argues that nationwide injunctions, which extend beyond the immediate litigants to affect the general public, are inconsistent with these principles and, therefore, unconstitutional. A historical and doctrinal analysis of the English Court of Chancery, …
The Case Against Police Militarization: Stop Turning Police Into Soldiers, Kenia A. Silva Garcia
The Case Against Police Militarization: Stop Turning Police Into Soldiers, Kenia A. Silva Garcia
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This paper will critically explore police militarization in the United States, highlighting its origins, implications, and the urgent need to demilitarize them. The rise of militarized police forces began in the 1960s—the War on Drugs and federal programs that allowed military equipment to be transferred to local police departments made their expansion even more possible. Due to this expansion, this paper discusses that police should not be militarized because it increases violence, disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly racial minorities, and ultimately fails to reduce crime. Evidence suggests that militarized police forces foster systemic inequalities that are rooted in historical racism—a …
Understanding Deviance Through General Strain Theory: A Study Of The Chowchilla Bus Kidnapping, Yazmin Robles
Understanding Deviance Through General Strain Theory: A Study Of The Chowchilla Bus Kidnapping, Yazmin Robles
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
The following paper demonstrates the validity of Robert Agnew’s general strain theory. In particular, the paper thoroughly examines empirical support for general strain theory, applies the theory to the infamous 1976 Chowchilla bus kidnapping, and introduces policy recommendations. The paper finds support, limitations, and suggestions for general strain theory through qualitative literature analysis. Clear connections are made between the empirical findings of the theory and the motivation behind the kidnapping. In particular, the paper highlights the significance of financial strain, emotions, and opportunity as motivators in the Chowchilla case. Policy recommendations are made in connection with the theory application to …
How Mass Incarceration Has Destroyed African American Communities, Angeliki Karvounis
How Mass Incarceration Has Destroyed African American Communities, Angeliki Karvounis
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Beginning with the “Tough on Crime” movement of the 1970s, policies such as mandatory minimums, the War on Drugs, and the Three Strikes law have reinforced racial disparities in the criminal justice system. Multiple historical and systemic factors have contributed to the disproportionate imprisonment of African American individuals. This paper explores the long-term consequences of incarceration, including the erosion of family structures, the economic marginalization of affected communities, and the perpetuation of poverty and crime. The repercussions of parental incarceration on children and the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals seeking reintegration into society are examples of the long-term consequences …
Human Trafficking: An Examination Of Policies And The Impact Of Trafficking On Victims, Hannah Lyons
Human Trafficking: An Examination Of Policies And The Impact Of Trafficking On Victims, Hannah Lyons
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Human trafficking is a pervasive and complex global issue that involves the exploitation of individuals. While there is also the trafficking of objects, this study solely focuses on sexual exploitation and forced labor of humans. This paper defines trafficking and examines the impact that trafficking has on victims’ physical and mental health. This paper also examines the intersection of human trafficking and policies designed to combat it, focusing on the effectiveness of legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms. By analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of current anti-trafficking laws and initiatives, the paper explores how policies can be improved to better address …
The Rape Kit Backlog: Problems And Solutions, Tracey Cao
The Rape Kit Backlog: Problems And Solutions, Tracey Cao
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This literature review examines the ongoing issue of rape kit backlog in the United States. Rape kits are a means of evidence collection from victims of sexual assault that can be used in court. Across the nation, many state jurisdictions have hundreds and thousands of rape kits left untested and locked away in storage facilities. Consent for testing, police bias, and funding issues are the main issues that will be addressed. Many victims choose not to have their kits tested. Other kits never get tested due to police choosing not to submit a kit due to their bias against some …
Detection Canines: An Insight Into Investigative Working Dogs, Adriana Pliego
Detection Canines: An Insight Into Investigative Working Dogs, Adriana Pliego
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
In a comprehensive exploration of detection canines, this paper aims to research the depth of their utilization by many investigative agencies and fields. A relevant case is discussed to present the application of detection canines and how they are useful for investigative measures. Shedding light into the various components of detection canines, this paper will discuss desirable canine characteristics that are sought out. On the other hand, undesirable characteristics are also discussed to inform recruiters of which attributes they should opt out of. This paper continues to discuss the roles and capabilities of detection canines given their unique potential. Then, …
Comparative Analysis Of Forensic Science Systems: Scotland Vs. America, Alec Noland
Comparative Analysis Of Forensic Science Systems: Scotland Vs. America, Alec Noland
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Forensic science plays an important role in the justice system of both the United States and Scotland, but the structure, application, and effectiveness differ significantly. This research paper presents a comparative analysis of forensic science in two different legal and institutional contexts, examining differences between the two forensic science systems. This includes forensic laboratories and services, education and training, policing, court procedures, legal framework, and crime scene investigation. The analysis highlights significant differences such as Scotland’s centralized system versus America’s decentralized system, which impacts resource allocation and standardization for forensic science. Despite major differences, both countries emphasize scientific reliability, standardized …
Prisoner Reentry Into Society Viewed Through The Lens Of Women, Jalak Parekh
Prisoner Reentry Into Society Viewed Through The Lens Of Women, Jalak Parekh
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
In the 1970s, President Richard Nixon declared a War on Drugs and initiated a series of policies that were intended to combat the use of illegal drugs by implementing severe sentences for drug-related crimes. As a result, the focus of the criminal justice system veered away from rehabilitation efforts. Today, the U.S. criminal justice system has considerably high rates of recidivism. This paper examines the importance of successful reentry into society for formerly incarcerated women, especially those who must resume a caregiver role to their children. However, a relapse into criminal behavior seems imminent due to societal barriers in obtaining …
The Lasting Effects Of Gun Violence On Victims And Communities, Anthony Do
The Lasting Effects Of Gun Violence On Victims And Communities, Anthony Do
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Gun violence is a pressing public health and criminal justice issue with lasting effects on victims, families, and communities in the United States. The psychological impact of gun violence can contribute to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and sleep deprivation. The issues are pronounced within marginalized or disadvantaged neighborhoods. The emergence of 3D-printed “ghost guns” presents further complications in the effort to regulate firearms. The United States stands out for its disproportionately high rates of firearm deaths. The findings in this paper highlight the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies that address both the current and future impacts …
The Normalization Of Clandestine Graves In Mexico, Alejandra Vela
The Normalization Of Clandestine Graves In Mexico, Alejandra Vela
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Clandestine graves are increasing at an alarming rate in Mexico, as cartels fight for dominance over the wealthiest territories. Those who fall victim to cartels are brutally tortured into submission or are murdered and disposed of. These graves are the preferred method of body disposal by the cartels. By disposing of various victims in hidden locations, the cartels seek to erase the existence of these individuals. Victims are reduced to only bone fragments and ash. Friends and family of those who have gone missing have created a large search organization, Madres Buscadoras, to combat the helplessness of authorities. Madres Buscadoras …
Incorporating Specialized Courses On The Prevention Of Sexual Misconduct In Policing Academies, Nina Nguyen
Incorporating Specialized Courses On The Prevention Of Sexual Misconduct In Policing Academies, Nina Nguyen
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
A major problem within law enforcement is police sexual misconduct (PSM), where law enforcement officers commit sexual offenses while using the power of their position. Bonds of loyalty and trust between fellow officers are strong enough that offenders have no worries about being reported, even if they are caught. Studies have shown that most offending officers were new to the field or recently completed their training at a policing academy. Since many of the officers committing PSM were fresh out of their training, it indicates that the academy is not training its recruits properly on topics of sexual assault and …
Oviposition And Immature Development Of Blowflies In Forensic Investigations, Amalia Herrera-Benitez
Oviposition And Immature Development Of Blowflies In Forensic Investigations, Amalia Herrera-Benitez
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Forensic entomology is a subspecialty within the field of forensic science where insect evidence is analyzed to solve criminal cases. Insects begin to colonize the body, with blowflies being the first insects to arrive. Within minutes, blowflies can lay eggs on a decomposing body, and the larvae will feed once they hatch. The life cycles of blowflies are analyzed to help determine an estimated post-mortem interval (PMI), which is crucial in investigations, as it can help establish a timeline. Various factors, such as temperature and access to the body, can cause delays in the oviposition of blowflies. A delay in …
Forensic Psychology Of Serial Killers, Karla Suarez
Forensic Psychology Of Serial Killers, Karla Suarez
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Many serial killers share patterns in psychological and neuropsychological disorders and behaviors. These behaviors and patterns should be recognized and acknowledged to understand why serial killers murder without remorse or guilt. It is important to discuss matters such as common patterns, typologies, and characteristics within serial killers. After looking at these essential aspects of serial killers, common neurodevelopmental disorders, brain damage, and biological epigenetics will be further explored. In order to fully assess this topic, forensic psychology and behavioral analysis are essential to aid in understanding serial killers and how their brains function to lead them to the actions that …