THE ROLE OF THE BIOMEDICAL SCIENTIST IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION THROUGH FORENSIC ANALYSIS OF BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE

Abstract

This study aims to demonstrate how the role of biomedical professionals in criminal forensics, through the forensic analysis of biological samples, decisively impacts the resolution of crimes and the assurance of justice. The research was conducted using a bibliographic and qualitative methodology, employing sources from 2019 to 2024 in the SciELO, LILACS, and Google Scholar databases. The main objective was to understand how efficient forensic analysis practices, combined with optimized management of forensic laboratories, contribute to the accuracy of results and the reliability of forensic evidence.Biomedical professionals play a crucial role by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting biological samples such as blood, saliva, hair, and other tissues. These professionals ensure that procedures are carried out with scientific rigor, minimizing contamination risks and increasing the accuracy of the results. Additionally, the involvement of biomedical professionals is essential in the implementation of new forensic technologies, optimizing analysis processes and ensuring the integrity of evidence presented in legal proceedings.Thus, biomedical professionals are responsible for promoting continuous improvements in forensic analysis methods, contributing to the resolution of crimes and the credibility of the criminal justice system. Several activities exemplify how this process directly impacts the efficiency of investigations. The first step is the careful collection of samples at the crime scene, where the biomedical professional uses sterile techniques and advanced equipment to ensure the integrity of the evidence. This provides greater legal security to the investigative process, minimizing the possibility of contamination and errors during analysis.Another important aspect is DNA laboratory testing, which allows the identification of suspects with a high degree of accuracy. The use of technologies such as automated PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), for instance, enables biomedical professionals to provide fast and reliable results, contributing to the swift resolution of cases. Methods such as mass spectrometry and chromatography are also essential for detecting substances present in biological samples, facilitating the discovery of toxins, drugs, or other elements that may be related to the crime.Monitoring laboratory results and preparing forensic reports are also crucial tasks. Biomedical professionals perform detailed analyses, ensuring that conclusions are based on solid evidence. Remote sample monitoring technologies can be used to guarantee data integrity, reducing the possibility of improper manipulation of evidence and ensuring greater confidence in the results presented to the justice system.The use of technological innovations is also essential in the field of forensic biomedicine. Technologies such as trace analysis and forensic bioinformatics allow for the identification of biological patterns with greater precision and shorter processing times. This provides criminal investigations with effective tools to resolve complex cases without compromising the quality of the evidence. Moreover, continuous training of forensic teams ensures that professionals are updated on best practices and safety protocols. Workshops on the use of new technologies and procedures help teams prepare to work with excellence in cases that require high scientific precision.Finally, biomedical professionals contribute significantly to justice by ensuring that the results obtained from forensic analyses are reliable and reproducible, providing crucial technical support for legal processes. Beyond their technical role, these professionals help ensure that the truth is uncovered, making a direct impact on society by contributing to the resolution of crimes and the fair conviction of offenders.In summary, the role of biomedical professionals in criminal forensics, through the forensic analysis of biological samples, not only aids in the resolution of crimes but also strengthens society's trust in the justice system, promoting a positive impact on public safety and the credibility of criminal investigations.