A crime has been committed!
Put on your detective hat and join us for a morning of investigation. Learn from the experts how forensic evidence can make or break a case.
THE CRIME:It is a typical Saturday at a local bar until a body is discovered in the parking lot.
THE CLUES: Join us as our experts investigate vital pieces of evidence found at the scene and determine what can be used to convict the person(s) responsible for this homicide.
On March 7, 2009, IUPUI is offering you the unique opportunity to learn what is currently being taught in today’s classrooms. Join us for this one-of-a-kind educational experience.
Luncheon Program
Once you have solved our “mock homicide” investigation, join us for lunch to hear a true account of how forensic science and the courtroom go hand-in-hand.
In 1998, Melinda Elkins-Dawson woke one morning to discover that her mother had been raped and murdered and her young niece raped. In the midst of her despair, she also learned that her husband was identified by her young niece as the person who committed these brutal crimes. Knowing that her husband could never commit such violent acts, Melinda set forth to prove his innocence. The only knowledge she had on DNA evidence, she learned from watching popular television shows like “Forensic Files.” She took incredible risks to identify possible suspects and collect DNA samples.
Once she had the samples, she discovered that it would take a small fortune to have them analyzed. Refusing to give up, Melinda contacted the Ohio Innocence Program, a new legal clinic at the University of Cincinnati Law School committed to freeing wrongfully convicted prisoners. Mark Godsey, who was a former prosecutor, was in charge of this program. Together Mark and Melinda were able to get the proper DNA samples analyzed and proved that Melinda’s husband was not the murderer. However, that information was not enough. They had to do more than prove that he was innocent. They had to find the true perpetrator.
Join us to find out how and what happened! Join us for lunch as these two remarkable individuals wrap up our discussion on forensic science and the judicial system. Arrive by 7:30 a.m. to see the soon-to-be released documentary about this remarkable case.
Certificate of Attendance
All participates will receive a "Certificate of Attendance" and for attorneys this program will count as 4.5 hours of CLE credit (continuing legal education).
