Financial Crime World

Here is the rewritten article in Markdown format:

Forensic Science Investment Yields Significant Results in St. Kitts and Nevis

A Decade of Progress

Basseterre, St. Kitts - The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has been commended for its significant investment in forensic science, which has led to a substantial decrease in homicides and crime rates in the Federation.

Crime Reduction Achievements

According to Forensic Director/Forensic Crime Scene Expert & Criminologist Latoya Lake-Marshall, the Royal St. Christopher & Nevis Police Force has seen a remarkable reduction in crimes over the past three years, thanks to the combined efforts of investigators and the application of forensic science.

From 2011 to 2021

In 2011, there were 35 homicides in the Federation, with a solvability rate of just 25 percent. However, since the implementation of forensic programs aimed at reducing crime, including Lake-Marshall’s placement as Forensic Director in 2018, significant improvements have been made.

Key Statistics

  • In 2021, the solvability rate for the Federation was 54 percent.
  • St. Kitts showed a remarkable 66 percent and Nevis 25 percent.

The Power of Forensic Science

Lake-Marshall attributed the success to the effective use of forensic techniques such as:

  • DNA analysis
  • Ballistics
  • AFIS Systems

These techniques have led to major links being made in cases involving serious crimes including:

  • Rape
  • Robbery
  • Murder

Notable Cases

In 2021, a suspect was positively linked to six crime scenes through DNA evidence. Additionally, ballistics linked a double homicide to a specific firearm.

Strengthening Evidence in Court

The application of forensic science has also had a significant impact on court outcomes, with Lake-Marshall noting that scientific proof serves as definitive evidence in securing convictions or exonerations. The Forensic Lab in the Federation is fully operational and plays a crucial role in strengthening evidence presented in court.

Conclusion

Lake-Marshall emphasized that while not all scenes possess forensic potential, the effective use of forensic science has been instrumental in solving crimes and reducing crime rates in St. Kitts and Nevis.