A Fly for the Prosecution:
How Insect Evidence Helps Solve Crimes
Each body recovered at a crime scene is an ecosystem, a unique micro environment colonized in succession by a diverse array of flies, beetles, mites, spiders, and other arthropods.
Using actual cases on which he has consulted, Goff shows how knowledge of these insects and their habits allows forensic entomologists to furnish investigators with crucial evidence about crimes.
A Fly for the Prosecution America's Dumbest Criminals:
Based on True Stories from Law
Enforcement Officials Across the Country
A hysterical collection of stories of actual crimes committed by fumbling felons, clumsy crooks, and ridiculous robbers, with their weird weapons, absurd alibis, and daffy defenses.
America's Dumbest Criminals is the ultimate assemblage of the most incredibly stupid and painfully dumb attempts at crime ever brought together.
America's Dumbest Criminals A Rage to Kill:
And Other True Cases
(Ann Rule's Crime Files, 6)
Rule has culled from her private files the most-asked-about homicide cases, riveting accounts of seemingly normal men and women who are compelled d by a murderous rage to suddenly lash out at innocent victims. Included here are 10 sensational cases that illuminate Rule's unique and authoritative view of the human psyche gone temporarily berserk.
A Rage to Kill Beyond the Crime Lab:
The New Science of Investigation
The science of criminal investigation has come a long way from the days of dusting for fingerprints and checking for lipstick traces. Here is a thorough look at the latest developments of criminal investigation technology, and their implications for the guilty and innocent.
The book is 10 chapters of well written, well researched material, the first 5 of which are devoted to the crime scene and trace evidence. Chapter 6 focuses on the mind and brain of the violent criminal. Chapters 7-10 focus on the writers experiences with such things as electronic surveillance, computers, science, etc.
Beyond the Crime Lab Bloodletters and Badmen:
A Narrative Encyclopedia of American
Criminals from the Pilgrims to the Present
A huge book (600+ pages) that will keep you reading for days. Unlike many books that are this big, this is very easy to read. Almost every major 9and minor) criminal in American history is examined in a fascinating compendium of true crime.
Like the depraved housewife who branded 'I AM A PROSTITUE AND PROUD' on the belly of the young girl left in her charge. You also get murders, rapists, stagecoach robbers, confidence men, joy killers and petty thieves all descibed in a feverish, tabloid tone.
Bloodletters and Badmen Corpse:
Nature, Forensics, and the Struggle
to Pinpoint Time of Death
An Exploration of the Haunting Science
of Forensic Ecology
Whether you enjoy a good murder mystery on occasion, or prefer watching a nature program on the Discovery Channel, you might well enjoy this book. The author places the new discipline of forensic ecology in a 2 000+ year historical perspective around the struggle to determine time of death.
It will arouse your interest in everything from history, evolution and nature to creative deductive reasoning. The sensational aspects of the discipline's application only add to its appeal, while the author's light touch makes for a fast read and humorous, but respectful, treatment of the subject matter.
Corpse Crime and Punishment in America
The book is easy to read, easy to understand, interesting, and relevant to any member of society.
The justice system is extremely lenient towards violent criminals, especially if they are financially well off. While non-violent and poor criminals usually pay a proportionally higher cost.
The author builds a strong thesis as to why our justice system does us little justice, and he offers some valuable suggestions as to how the system could do us more justice.
Crime and Punishment (softcover) Crime and Punishment (hardcover) Crime Lab:
A Guide for Nonscientists
Takes you behind the scenes, describing each step of the analysis of evidence gathered at crime scenes, explaining in easy-to-understand concepts exactly what's happening along the way.
Complex instruments such as the gas chromatograph and techniques such as DNA amplification are thoughtfully described with 130 illustrations including 100 in color.
Crime Lab Crime Science:
Methods of Forensic Detection
This book gives a broad overview of the various aspects of forensic science. Compared to some other books on case studies, this book has less cases than others. However, it gives more details and explains different forensic methods better than other comparable books.
Good reading cover to cover. The case studies illustrate the key points of each chapter. I think the greatest strength of this book is that all information is referenced at the end of the book, if further study is required. Recommended reading is provided at the end of each chapter to allow the reader to further explore interests if desired.
Crime Science Cyber Crime:
How to Protect Yourself from Computer Criminals
Are you or your computer at risk? You don't need to be a computer wizard to understand how to protect yourself and your equipment from attack by hackers, phreakers, and virus writers.
This book will show you, the novice to intermediate computer user, how and give you tips about staying safe online. If you have a computer, you need a book like this.
More advanced computers will probably like a book such as Life and Death on the Internet or Hacking Exposed, both were written for a more advanced user.
Cyber Crime Dead Men Do Tell Tales:
The Strange and Fascinating Cases
of a Forensic Anthropologist
While explaining the behavior of maggots and the biology of putrefaction, a forensic anthropologist recounts his strangest and most horrifying criminal cases.
From a skeleton, a skull, a mere fragment of burnt thighbone, Dr. William Maples can deduce the age, gender, and ethnicity of a murder victim, the manner in which the person was dispatched, and, ultimately, the identity of the killer.
In Dead Men Do Tell Tales, Dr. Maples revisits his strangest, most interesting, and most horrific investigations, from the baffling cases of conquistador Francisco Pizarro and Vietnam MIAs to the mysterious deaths of President Zachary Taylor and the family of Czar Nicholas II.
Dead Men Do Tell Tales Dead Reckoning:
The New Science of Catching Killers
A book that examines what a forensic pathologist does in an effort to discover how a person died. If a crime is suspected, collecting evidence becomes necessary. This will tell you all the details involved in forensic pathology. A very interesting book that is hard to put down.
Every page reveals another aspect of the forensic sciences, leading the reader into the world of autopsies, murder scenes, blood-splatter analysis, the life cycles of blowflies in carrion, DNA fingerprinting and the methods for identifying unknown victims by their skulls, teeth and bones.
Dead Reckoning (softcover) Dead Reckoning (hardcover) Death Investigation:
The Basics
One of those books, much too rare (particularly in the field of forensics), that is so well written that it deserves recognition as a notable reference for understanding the basic tasks facing all Medical Examiners.
This book contains 9 chapters devoted to the duties of death/medical investigators/examiners (DIs/MEs), deaths subject to investigation, scene investigation, identification of bodies, time of death, public relations, autopsies, certificates of death, etc.
Additional pages are devoted to the bibliography, index, and various appendices of charts and forms. There are 35 B/W photos or diagrams which were well chosen and integral to the text.
Death Investigation Death Investigator's Handbook:
A Field Guide To Crime Scene Processing,
Forensic Evaluations, And Investigative Techniques
This is the most comprehensive book on field investigation I have ever seen (800+ pages). Covers death scene evidence gathering in a manner that insures every detail is observed and that a strong chain of evidence is developed.
I have read this book and must admit it is probably one of the best resources in death investigation a officer or anyone else interested in the subject could have.
I have heard seasoned officers and investigators tell me that they wished this book was available when they were just starting out. However, it remains a very good reference for officers in any stage of their career. If you are involved in death investigations in any way, buy this book! You will find plenty of useful information.
Death Investigator's Handbook Death's Acre:
Inside the Legendary Forensic Lab
The Body Farm
Where The Dead Do Tell Tales
True tales, some horrifying (like the brutally murdered body of a four-year-old girl, etc, etc), from the real body farm research facility, part of the University of Tennessee, where studies are conducted on what happens to the human body after death.
If you're in the least bit jaded with fictional murder stories or want to know what really goes on behind the scenes of murder case, this book will intrigue you. A very interesting book, even for someone with no particular interest in forensic science.
Death's Acre (softcover) Death's Acre (hardcover) Guide to Forensic Pathology
Provides a concise overview of forensic pathology to those who wish to know the basics but lack formal forensic training. Both fascinating and practical, this book explains everything from who the experts are in death investigation and what their roles are to how effective testimonies are presented in court.
Includes case studies, advice on testifying, frequently asked questions, a glossary of medical terms, guidelines for the death scene investigator, as well as information on determining the time and manner of death, identifying the victim, and forensic DNA testing. Although it is not primarily a picture book it contains some photographs.
Though intended for death investigators, the book will be useful to medical students, pathology residents, pathologists, coroners, medical examiners, homicide detectives, and others interested in the subject.
Guide to Forensic Pathology Handbook for Death Scene Investigators
Provides concise information in a handy, pocket-sized (three and a half by six inch) format, perfect for on the scene reference.
Details about sudden natural deaths by disease and accidents are emphasized in this guidebook, complemented with practical information on reviewing a medical chart, collecting evidence, obtaining a medical history, interacting with other law enforcement personnel, witnesses, and relatives.
Handbook for Death Scene Investigators How to Be a Successful Criminal:
The Real Deal on Crime, Drugs, and Easy Money
Ron Glodoski survived an abusive childhood by escaping to the street. At age 12, he was a gang member. By the time he was 15, he was a gang leader with a felony record. In his twenties he became one of the most successful drug dealers in Milwaukee, commanding an extensive criminal network.
Strips away the romanticized media image of the cool, glamorous life-style, and reveals the real deal about life on the street. Although written for kids at risk, this inspirational, informative story holds universal truths for anyone who has ever doubted themselves or felt less than enough.
How to Be a Successful Criminal Kids Who Kill
A top forensic psychologist presents a shocking examination of the lives and crimes of today's youngest killers. Children and teenagers are responsible for over 10% of the nation's homicides. This startling book explores the psychology, causes, and motives behind their unspeakable acts.
Looks at cases like the seventeen year old who opened fire on an elementary schoolyard, the sixteen year old who beat his brother to death, and the two Missouri tots who murdered a baby, and others.
Kids Who Kill Life and Death on the Internet
This book starts out explaining a few simple facts about the Internet and then gets serious with solutions to privacy issues every Internet user faces, especially parents.
Many helpful ideas were presented in an easy to follow format. This book does not just outline the problems, but provides solutions to protect your family from Internet indecencies and protect your privacy.
An Appendix in the book lists all the free and anonymous wholesome pornographic newsgroups, it also lists the newsgroups that are not so wholesome including child pornography, bestiality, bondage, torture, etc.
While worth the price just for the free porn info, the purpose of the book is internet security and the book does a very good job of informing you how to protect yourself, and your family.
Life and Death on the Internet Loony Laws and Silly Statutes
The book takes you on a ride through various laws that seem to be made up by mad men.
Not a law book, not a reference...Just a reminder that when it comes to making the rules, it's easy to get carried away.
Loony Laws and Silly Statutes Obsession:
The FBI's Legendary Profiler Probes
the Psyches of Killers, Rapists and Stalkers
and Their Victims and Tells How to Fight Back
In depth profiles of various types of serial rapists and other violent predators give the reader a valuable and insightful look into the criminal mind.
The author is passionate about what he does and has very clear ideas on what he believes needs to be done about violent offenders. He supports the victim and gives them priority over the criminal justice system.
Some of the crime details presented in the book are disturbing, but the book can help put you, the reader, in control. Knowing how the criminal mind operates, makes it easier to combat.
Obsession Practical Homicide Investigation:
Checklist and Field Guide
This practical how-to guide contains many of the checklists from Practical Homicide Investigation, Third Edition that lead you step-by-step through procedures, tactics, and forensic techniques used in sudden death and violent death investigations.
This versatile field guide contains an important appendix that provides collection of evidence procedures for field personnel, indicating specific types of evidence and how to collect it.
With the help of this book, no matter when you come into an investigation you are on-line and ready to go. Indexed by type of crime for quick and easy reference, this guide is a must-have for anyone responding to a death investigation.
Practical Homicide Investigation Profiles in Murder:
An FBI Legend Dissects Killers and Their Crime
Looks back at a career that encompasses some of the most horrific crimes in the FBI's files. The author takes you step by step through crime scenes depicting details that are gruesome and not for someone with a weak stomach. Overall, the book is very good and almost feels as if you are watching a horror movie.
Learn more about how he and other FBI profilers analyze a crime scene and determine, the age, sex, race, physical appearance, and habits of some of the most deranged killers so accurately that several suspects have been identified based almost exclusively on their profiles.
Profiles in Murder Royal Murders:
Hatred, Revenge and the Seizing of Power
Covers more than a thousand years of European history, looking at the motives, means and consequences of the murders of, and sometimes murders by, members of Europe's reigning families.
A compelling compendium of who-dunnits, gruesome fellings, witchcraft, infanticide and assassinations that have changed the course of history.
Royal Murders Sexual Homicide:
Patterns and Motives
Who are the men committing the rising number of serial homicides in the U.S., and why do they kill? This book presents information about these men: their crime scene patterns, violent acts, and above all, their motivations for committing these shocking and repetitive murders.
A valuable bank of information which reveals the world of the serial sexual killer in both quantitative and qualitative detail. Data was obtained from official psychiatric and criminal records, court transcripts, and prison reports, as well as from extensive interviews with the offenders themselves.
Featured in this book is detailed information on the F.B.I.'s recently developed Violent Criminal Apprehension Program (VICAP) and a sample of an actual VICAP Crime Analysis Report Form.
Sexual Homicide Stiff:
The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers
Very informative book about cadavers and death throughout history, going back to ancient times. Does a great job detailing the jobs of people who work with the dead, from forensic students to beheaders.
Examines, in detail, such subjects as body snatching, human decay, brain transplants, cannibalism, different ways to dispose of dead bodies, and more.
Stiff (softcover) Stiff (hardcover) The Casebook of Forensic Detection:
How Science Solved 100
of the World's Most Baffling Crimes
This fascinating book describes the development of forensics from the nineteenth century to the present. This a great book if you don't know a lot about forensics. It really explains everything that you may not understand.
Features riveting stories of how forensic experts were able to identify a person with only one one thousandth of her body parts, the dramatic tale of how a psychological profile helped catch a dangerous criminal who drank his victim's blood, and numerous more narratives.
The Casebook of Forensic Detection The Forensic Casebook:
The Science of Crime Scene Investigation
Gives the reader information on everything relating to forensics and what people employed as forensics professionals (crime scene investigators, pathologists, anthropologists, etc) do.
Also goes into detail on the process and procedure of a crime investigation from first arrival on scene, to collection of evidence, to processing the evidence all the way through to presenting evidence and expert testimony in court.
The Forensic Casebook The Gift of Fear:
Survival Signals That Protect Us from Violence
Each hour, 75 women are raped in the United States, and every few seconds, a woman is beaten. Each day, 400 Americans suffer shooting injuries, and another 1,100 face criminals armed with guns. Author Gavin de Becker says victims of violent behavior usually feel a sense of fear before any threat or violence takes place.
The book teaches how to identify the warning signals of a potential attacker and recommends strategies for dealing with the problem before it becomes life threatening.
People don't just snap and become violent. There is a process as observable, and often as predictable, as water coming to a boil. Learning to predict violence is the cornerstone to preventing it. This advice may save your life.
--Joan Price
The Gift of Fear (softcover) The Gift of Fear (hardcover) The Mafia Encyclopedia
In this Who's Who of crime, readers will find the full flavor and substance of Mafia culture, customs, and characters presented in more than 400 articles. More than ninety five black and white photographs help capture Mafia history.
The book starts with Anthony Joseph Accardo (1906-1992), the Chicago mob leader and works its way through the alphabet to Abner 'Longy' Zwillman, a crime-syndicate founder and New Jersey boss (1899-1959).
The Mafia Encyclopedia Unnatural Death:
Confessions of a Medical Examiner
Forensic pathologist Michael Baden was a medical examiner in New York City for more than 25 years. Now he works for the New York State Police and teaches forensic medicine.
This engrossing book covers:
(1) several famous cases, MLK, JFK, etc
(2) unusual cases
(3) how medical examiners decide on means of death
(4) the history of coroners since 12th century England;
(5) disturbing politics that effects cases
(6) identification of the dead;
(7) time of death;
(8) multiple-murder cases;
(9) an almost perfect murder;
(10) close calls, including near deaths during sex;
(11) cases of mistaken diagnosis; and
(12) autopsy findings of the Attica uprising
Unnatural Death What the Corpse Revealed:
Murder and the Science of Forensic Detection
Presented here in dramatic detail are sixteen riveting, real-life criminal cases taken from the files of forensic scientists all over the world.
These are incredible true crime stories that confounded traditional police detection. Including only those cases solved on the basis of scientific investigation, the author takes us through each one from the viewpoint of the key actors, and in detailed procedural stages shows how the perpetrators of the crimes were found.
What the Corpse Revealed (softcover) What the Corpse Revealed (hardcover) Whoever Fights Monsters
An overview of the career of the FBI man who helped create the system for personality profiling of violent offenders. This book is packed with fascinating details from dozens of cases.
Gives the basic tools and terminology used to classify serial murderers and real life examples of the categories given. This book is a nice mix of an overview of the subject and an explanation of the science used to catch the killers.
Whoever Fights Monsters Witch Hunt:
A True Story of Social Hysteria and Abused Justice
It began with the cry of a young girl and escalated into the victimization of dozens of citizens for allegedly committing horrific sex crimes against children.
Soon families were broken up, adults were accused of heinous crimes and were prosecuted, without anyone questioning the methods of the so-called experts.
Now, an independent attorney, who spent a year in Wenatchee, pieces together the story of one of the most blatant cases of misuse of power and miscarried justice since the McCarthy witch-hunts.
Witch Hunt Without Conscience:
The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us
Psychopaths are social predators who charm, manipulate, and ruthlessly plow their way through life, leaving a broad trail of broken hearts, shattered expectations, and empty wallets. Completely lacking in conscience and in feelings for others, they selfishly take what they want and do as they please.
Not all psychopaths are criminals and not all criminals are psychopaths. The writing is lucid and illustrated with numerous anecdotes. The final chapter, A Survival Guide, is especially recommended, there is a good chance that eventually you will have a painful or humiliating encounter with one.
Without Conscience