Who Are the Ballistics Experts on Crime Shows?

[lax1113]

Hey guys,
I know that crime shows are largely exagerrated and most of it aren't real, however, the idea that they use ballistics in murders and shootings is obvious. What i want to know is, who are them guys when you hear them say, "The bullet just came back from ballistics, it was fired from such and such angle." Who are them ballistic's guru's? I hope I am making it clear enough, like would one go to college for physics and go into the law enforcement field? is it a field of engineering and then just getting into that for a job? Is it really not at all what it seems to be and there is no designated ballistics team...

Anything would be appreciated guys, thanks.

 

[physics girl phd]

Forensics ballistics is a field. Generally the bullet can be examined for type, firearm used (via groove patterns perhaps), etc. Knowing that info allows one to know the bullet's speed when it departs the gun. Knowing speed and locating the bullet (including possibly intact embedded bullets in characterized materials) would allow one to make such estimates via conservation of momentum/energy and via kinetics (unintact bullets would be more difficult of course). I don't think every city has a "ballistics team" but there are ballistics experts and national databases forinformation such as this. Note: you may want to check out http://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/april2000/schehl1.htm#Introduction" (from Forensics Science Communications).

 

[Mene]

I can tell you that ballistics is a legitimate field of study and plays a crucial role in forensic investigations. Ballistics involves the study of projectiles, such as bullets, and their behavior when fired from a weapon. This includes factors such as trajectory, velocity, and impact.

In crime shows, the individuals referred to as "ballistics experts" are typically forensic scientists or technicians who specialize in this field. They may have backgrounds in physics or engineering, but they also receive specialized training in forensic science and ballistics analysis. They may work for law enforcement agencies or in private laboratories.

To become a ballistics expert, one would typically need to obtain a degree in a related field such as forensic science, physics, or engineering. They may also need to complete additional training and certification programs to specialize in ballistics analysis.

It is important to note that while ballistics is a valuable tool in forensic investigations, it is not the only factor considered in determining the cause of a shooting or murder. Other evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and witness testimonies also play a critical role.

In summary, while crime shows may exaggerate the role of ballistics in solving crimes, it is a legitimate field of study and plays an important role in forensic investigations. The individuals referred to as "ballistics experts" are highly trained professionals with specialized knowledge in this field.