Crimebusters: How Science Fights Crime Paperback - 2007

Older boys and girls will be mesmerized by this dramatically illustrated chronicle of crime detection and its many methods. Crimebusters surveys the wide spectrum of crime--burglary, forgery, arson, murder, and even cyber crime--and describes how the science of forensics has evolved to become the criminal investigator's most important tool. Dramatic full-color photos show how forensics technicians collect fingerprints, footprints, tire tracks, hair, and fibers from crime scenes, and then analyze them to get evidence that often points to a criminal's identity. Also described and illustrated is the science of ballistics--the study of bullets and firearms--and how specific guns are traced to criminal acts. The author cites fascinating real-life crime cases with reference to clues that resulted in their solution. Readers learn how infra-red light and X-rays can reveal art forgeries, how laser beams can map the paths of bullets, how DNA tests can establish the guilt or innocence of a criminal suspect, and much more. Full-color photos and illustrations appear on every page. A concluding forensics glossary and a list of recommended books and web sites will inspire young readers to delve more deeply into the absorbing science of crime detection.