There are many instances where applied mathematics is used to assist criminal investigators. From identifying suspects to analyzing evidence. For a long time I've been interested in the accuracy and reliability of these systems. After all an incorrect result (Type 1 and Type 2 errors) could ruin an innocent person's life or allow a criminal to go free. There are many recorded instances where mathematics has been applied successfully, but there is also a growing body of evidence that math has been misused or flat out abused in criminal proceedings. I've always had an interest in how technology is applied to the legal system and specifically how it can be tested for efficacy, reliability, accuracy, and precision.
