The International Response To Knife Crime: Researching Identification Methods To Assist The UK Response

Knife crime is an increasing occurrence in the UK, impacting rural communities and urban areas. The September 2018 Crime Survey of England and Wales recorded 42,957 knife offences; the highest level since 2011. Personal casework experience has involved the forensic laboratory examination of bladed weapons from offences including sexual assaults, murder, armed robberies, wildlife crime, aggravated burglaries, cold case reviews and terrorism. Other countries have had similar experiences with the use of bladed weapons. In particular, Australia (knives reportedly the most used weapon) and Canada (stabbing is deemed the most frequent homicide method). The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust facilitates travel fellowships for British citizens to visit other countries for a particular subject sector which is a pertinent cause for concern and improvement. The intention is to improve the situation by obtaining new knowledge for dissemination with peers and relevant organisations upon their return. This particular Fellowship project involved vital research being undertaken to form best practices to assist UK knife crime investigations. Federal and state/province police forces, forensic science facilities and academic institutions were approached within Australia and Canada for interaction with practitioners and researchers. Insights into identification methods conducted within laboratory procedures, crime scene processing, police strategies and novel research developments were obtained. Ultimately, a dual legacy is envisioned, where these findings can aid detections and convictions, whilst preventing future crimes and reducing injuries. Therefore, this presentation will facilitate the sharing of best practice and be of interest to law enforcement agencies and other Criminal Justice Systems