Michael J. Spence, PhD — Spence Forensic Resources
Areas of Expertise: DNA Forensics
Please refer to www.spenceforensics.com
Our goal at Spence Forensic Resources (SFR) is to deliver independent, high quality, cost effective forensic DNA consulting services to individuals, academic institutions, and professionals working within the criminal justice system. We are committed to building and maintaining working relationships where both our clients and our firm benefit and enjoy our associations.
Discovery Requests of Vital Case Documents: Maximizing the effectiveness of case review by SFR will require a discovery request for more than just one or two brief crime lab reports. Through utilization of the discovery process, SFR will assist you with initiating and executing a thorough examination of your case. Copies of the following case documentation, where applicable, should be requested via discovery:
- Evidence Screening/Examination (Serology) Report
- DNA Profile Analysis Report
- Evidence Item Lists — Examined Items Unexamined Items
- Laboratory Case Notes/Analyst Bench Notes
(often handwritten)
- Evidence Screening/Examination (Serology) Worksheets
- DNA Worksheets-Extraction, Quantification, PCR Analysis, etc.
- STR Typing Data — Electropherograms, Gel Scans, etc.
- Genetic Loci STR Allele Call Summaries
- DNA Mixture Analysis (See SFR Policy-summarized below)
- Population Statistical Calculations
- Positive and Negative Controls
- Laboratory Standard Operating Procedures-Particularly their RFU limits for Capillary Electrophoresis
- Chain of Custody For Pertinent Case Items
- Pertinent Reports From Law Enforcement or Medical Facilities
- Communications — Analysts, Supervisors, Investigators, Prosecutors, etc.
Dr. Spence provides a high degree of experience in case file examination, consulting, DNA mixture analysis, and expert witness testimony. For a copy of his Curriculum Vitae and additional background information, please refer to the link:
http://www.spenceforensics.com/aboutdrspence.html
In addition to the range of forensic DNA consulting services that are managed by Dr. Spence, SFR maintains associations with highly qualified experts with specialties in other technological areas. A listing of these associations is provided at the web page:
http://www.spenceforensics.com/otherservices.html
Some cases require laboratory-based re-examination of case evidence. On numerous occasions, Dr. Spence has referred these services to a qualified laboratory Independent Forensics, Inc. (IFI, Lombard, Illinois). Upon completion of the lab analysis, Dr. Spence has successfully testified in cooperation with testimony from IFI representatives.