Solving Crimes with Forensic Science

With the help of DNA forensics, the 1979 murder of a secretary is solved 34 years later using evidence that had been stored for more than three decades.  What sounds like a plot from an episode of CSI:Crime Scene Investigation is actually a true story detailed in the book Justice Delayed: The Catherine Janet Walsh Story by Dr. Steve Hallock.

The Peters Township Public Library will welcome Dr. Hallock, Dr. Raymond Hsieh and students from the California University of Pennsylvania Forensic Science Club for a captivating evening to discuss Justice Delayed: Solving Crimes with Forensic Science on Thursday, March 2 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Register online or call 724.941.9430 #1 to attend. A book signing will follow the program. Due to the nature of this topic, this program will contain images that some viewers may find disturbing.

Beginning at 6:00 p.m. members of the Forensic Science Club from California University of PA will demonstrate fingerprint techniques and present multiple panels on the topics of Digital Forensics, Forensic Anthropology, Crime Scene Imaging, Forensic Pathology, Cold Cases, and Evidence Collection and Preservation. The displays will be available to view following the program.

Dr. Steve Hallock, author of the book Justice Delayed: The Catherine Janet Walsh Story, will speak about the effects of murder on a small close-knit community of friends, relatives and neighbors in Monaca, PA. Dr. Hallock is director of the graduate studies program for the School of Communication at Point Park University and has a Ph.D. in Journalism from Ohio University.

Dr. Raymond Hsieh will discuss the role of Forensic Science in solving the Janet Catherine Walsh case. Dr. Hsieh will explain what makes up trace evidence and biological evidence. Dr. Hsieh is a Professor in Criminal Justice and Forensic Science at California University of Pennsylvania and Director of Justice Studies. He is certified as a Computer Forensic Examiner and holds numerous professional forensic certifications.

Angela Novak is President of the California University of Pennsylvania Forensic Science Club and will facilitate the student participation for this event.

Posted in ,