19-21 March 2012, Collins Building, University of Strathclyde
The first workshop of the Fingerprints programme will consider in detail the Shirley McKie case as well as cases from England (R v Smith, 2011) and the USA (Madrid bombing). These cases are illustrative of problems with fingerprint evidence that have arisen around the world, identifying the need for major reform. Our aim is to establish the mechanisms necessary for the transformation of fingerprint practices in Scotland and to inform those in other jurisdiction in the UK and internationally. Areas that will be explored include:
• factors that contributed to the undesirable outcomes - how they arose and interacted
• factors of general relevance to fingerprint practices irrespective of jurisdiction
• identifying practical mechanisms to address the issues
The workshop will be opened by Kenny MacAskill MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Justice. Confirmed attendees include: Scottish Government, Crown Office Procurator Fiscal Service, Scottish Police Services Authority , Crown Prosecution Service, USA Federal Bureau of Investigation, Skills for Justice, , Forensic Science Regulator, Metropolitan Police Service, Forensic Science Society, University of Strathclyde Business School, National Policing Improvement Agency, European Network of Forensic Science Institutes, Fingerprint Society, University of California. Also invited: Association of Chief Police Officers, Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland, International Association for Identification, Australian Federal Police, Penn State University
On 19-20 March the workshop will take place in the Court Senate, Collins Building, 26 Richmond Street, Glasgow G1 1XQ.
On 21 March the workshop will be held in Room 513, Graham Hills Building, 50 George Street, Glasgow G1 1XQ.
Download the full programme.