Evidence the Silent Witness
Wherever he steps, whatever he touches, whatever he leaves even unconsciously, will serve as silent evidence against him. Not only his fingerprints or his footprints, but his hair, the fibers from his clothing, the glass he breaks, the tool mark he leaves, the paint he scratches, the blood or semen that he deposits or collects-all these and more bear mute witness against him. This is evidence that does not forget. It is not confused by the excitement of the moment. It is not absent because human witnesses are. It is factual evidence. Physical evidence cannot be wrong; it cannot perjure itself; it cannot be wholly absent. Only interpretation can err. Only human failure to find it, study and understand it, can diminish its value.
Paul Kirk
Forensic Scientist
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About
David has over 38 years of experience as a police officer with over 6500 hours of specialized training and experience in law, criminal investigation, interview and interrogation, sex crimes, and crime scene investigations. He has worked and directed crime scenes and investigations for several high profile Capital Murder cases in North Texas and witnessed an execution in his home state. He served as Criminal Investigations and Crime Scene Commander and as a Public Information Officer for the department. David has lectured and instructed at various colleges and universities including classes at the Univ. of North Texas, Grayson College, Weatherford College, Navarro College, and the Southern Police Institute taught at the University of Louisville.
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Media Appearances
- NBC5 DFW 20th Year Anniversary of Routier Death Penalty Conviction
- A & E Television Dead Again “Innocence Lost” Season 1 Episode 4
- Investigation Discovery Deadly - "Women That Kill Their Own":
- Discovery Channel US/Canada/ UK/Australia - "Family Secrets"
- Two Appearances on CBS 48 Hours - “Precious Angels: A Shocking Crime” and “The Law and Ms. Shelton”
- A&E American Justice - “Under Suspicion: The Case of Catherine Shelton”
- Fire and Emergency Television Network: PULSE Emergency Medical Update - "Crime Scene for 1st Responders for EMS”
- Discovery Channel - Medical Detectives Season 4
“Invisible Intruder: Analyzing Blood Clues” - Law Enforcement Television Network - “Mothers Who Kill”
- Law Enforcement Television Network – “Command Center”
- Featured in four books, Precious Angels, Hush Little Babies: The True Story of a Mother Who Murdered Her Own Children, Media Tried Justice Denied, Behind the Truth and Lies of the Darlie Lynn Routier Murder Case
Learn with us and improve your scenes
To accurately portray a crime scene, criminal investigations, or general police work in your novel, consider consulting with David. His insights into real-world crime scenes and investigative procedures will lend authenticity to your writing. Many TV shows and books often misrepresent these details. David is available to address your specific inquiries and ensure your next novel presents a true-to-life representation of how police investigate crime scenes, develop the case, and prepare it for successful prosecution.
Classes/Lectures for authors
Class Title: "Overcoming Common Struggles in Creating Realistic and Engaging Crime Storylines"
Class Description: This class addresses writers' challenges when crafting realistic and engaging crime storylines. Participants will gain a general foundation for accurately depicting police procedures and forensic science, developing believable characters, constructing intricate plots, and balancing legal and ethical issues.
Class Title: Evidence: The Silent Witness, Understanding Crime Scenes
Class Description: This class delves into what constitutes a crime scene beyond the initial location. We'll explore Locard's Exchange Principle and its crucial role in forensic investigations. Whenever two objects come into contact, there is an exchange of materials between them. Individuals at a scene will always leave some trace of themselves at a crime scene and take something from it, providing crucial evidence for investigators. Attendees will learn how to use evidence to connect suspects to crime scenes and how it can prove or disprove statements.
Class Title: "Writing for Accuracy: Research, Resources for Writing About Police Procedures"
Class Description: This class provides strategies for researching and writing accurate police procedures. Learn about valuable resources, including books, articles, databases, and expert consultations, to ensure your crime stories are authentic and engaging.
Class Title: "Using Proper Investigative, Evidence Collection, and Equipment Techniques for Historical Accuracy in Writing"
Class Description: This class focuses on using proper investigative, evidence collection, and equipment techniques relevant to different historical periods. Learn how to conduct research for historical accuracy and integrate these details into your narrative to enhance plausibility and realism.
Class Title:"Using the Five Senses to Enhance Crime Writing"
Class Description: Enhance your crime writing by incorporating the five senses. This class covers how Detectives and Crime Scene Investigators use sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste to gather evidence and solve crimes and how writers can use these sensory details to create vivid, immersive narratives. Learn to make your crime scenes come alive, helping readers feel like they are part of the investigation.