Fibers under fire: Suggestions for improving their use to provide forensicevidence

The current emphasis on DNA technology in forensic science has led many to believe that trace evidence examinations, including fibers, may be of littl e value. Reasons are given here to show that this is an erroneous assumptio n. In the Face of this situation, fibers examiners have been challenged to consider ways in which they can improve the services they offer to the Crim inal Justice System not only by increasing the efficiency of the examinatio ns, but also by expressing the evidential value of the findings in a cleare r way. The separate stages within fibers casework from evidence collection to report writing are critically examined. Suggestions are made on how impr ovements may be achieved. Areas where particular progress can be made inclu de improving communication and exchange of information between the investig ator and the scientist and streamlining analysis by using the latest equipm ent in conjunction with effective case management. In addition, ways of mak ing better use of existing data pertaining to Fiber frequencies, accumulati ng new data by using the resources of working groups, and improving trainin g procedures with respect to evidence interpretation are discussed.