Forensic disciplines and their growth in Honduras

Abstract

Undoubtedly, forensic science has experienced substantial growth in recent years. We have witnessed a transition from expertise primarily based on the expert's experience to expertise primarily based on the scientific method. Likewise, the significant advancement of various disciplines has enhanced their application in the forensic field, strengthening criminal investigations and information processing. Examples include:
1. DNA technologies, specifically DNA phenotyping, which allows for the inference of physical characteristics, ancestry, and age from a DNA sample—something not possible until recently with conventional STR genotyping.

Forensic genetic genealogy, which combines several scientific disciplines, strengthens criminal investigations and identification processes.

2. Digital analysis and the integration of artificial intelligence, with impressive applications in the forensic field, enhance information management and analysis, digital traceability, 3D reconstruction, and more. 3. Nanotechnology, with its applications in detecting latent fingerprints and traces of poisons and other chemical substances, to name just a few.

This rapid advancement in forensic science highlights the urgent need to continue strengthening scientific processes and the application of technology in Honduran forensic work. Until now, the growth of forensic expertise in our country has focused on laboratory accreditation and expert certification. However, we must commit to strengthening training processes, scientific research and publication, as well as administrative strengthening and the incorporation of technology and artificial intelligence, among other things.

Faced with a challenging landscape in which crime has evolved, adopting advanced technologies that challenge traditional capabilities, forensic science must be more proactive than reactive, anticipating criminal movements and internal attacks aimed at weakening our institutions. In this issue of the journal we publish an important reflection on forensic genetic genealogy and its potential in Latin America, the importance of proper recording in the clinical file, as well as the potential of craniofacial reconstruction and the use of simple devices such as a handheld metal detector to strengthen the management of corpses in limited or challenging contexts.