MICROBIAL FORENSICS-A REVIEW

Abstract

As early as 1995, it was suggested that the investigation and solution of bioterrorism events would rely heavily on forensic science. It was predicted because of the view that such events could be readily perpetrated without the availability of eyewitnesses, concerned citizen reporting, records available for review and analysis, or serendipitous or purposeful intelligence or evidence. It is from these sources of information that law enforcement usually conducts investigations, makes arrests, and disrupts, prevents, or deters crime. The prediction was also based on the expectation that someday one or a small number of skilled individuals would succeed in such an operation, by possessing knowledge and materials, employing tight operational security, and using subtle means during the preparation and dissemination of a biological agent.