Monday, February 6, 2012

Swedish crime investigator speaks to Prof. Wolfe's criminal investigation class

Mr. Carlsson (far left) and Prof. Wolfe (left kneeling) demonstrate casting snow impressions
for law enforcement personnel.
Kjell Carlsson, a retired forensic scientist for the Stockholm Police Crime Lab and the Swedish National Crime Lab, spoke to Prof. Jim Wolfe's JUST 255 Criminal Investigation class at the end of January.  Mr. Carlsson described Swedish criminal investigation techniques using case examples involving shoe print and tool mark evidence. He has also developed a technique for casting snow impressions using a new type of plaster.  Mr. Carlsson took advantage of  the exceptionally cold snow conditions Alaska was experiencing this winter to experiment and demonstrate his technique.  He has over 40 years of experience in criminal investigation.

Mr. Carlsson lecturing to students.
While in the state, Mr. Carlsson also lectured with Prof. Wolfe at a course hosted by the State Crime Lab and the Alaska Police Standards Council, "Documenting and Collecting Snow Impression Evidence." Attendees included staff from the Alaska Crime Lab, Wildlife Troopers, State Fire Marshall's Office, and the Anchorage Airport Police.

Prof. Wolfe (kneeling) assists a participant at the state course  in
photographing a snow impression.