2026 SPRING SEMINAR
Oddities, Curiosities and Solutions in Forensic Casework:
Navigating Atypical Challenges Across Disciplines
Explore complex and unconventional cases that push forensic science beyond standard protocols. From DNA and chimerism to toxicology challenges, mass fatality response, forensic anthropology, and unusual drug smuggling mediums, this seminar presents real-world examples where atypical evidence demanded innovative, defensible solutions. Attendees will gain practical insight into cross-disciplinary collaboration, sharpen critical thinking skills, and strengthen their ability to navigate rare or evolving scenarios with confidence and scientific integrity.
Speakers & Topics:
- Matthew Reimer – Nassau County Crime Lab
- Things that make you go Hmmm….Identifying issues with the Drug Chemistry Instrumentation
- Lisa Mundy – Philadelphia Medical Examiner’s Office & Dr. Michelle Carlin – Rutgers University
- A Discussion of interesting Toxicology cases and solutions to unique problems
- Kimberly Michalik – New Jersey State Police DNA Laboratory
- Chimera findings in a Sexual Assault Case. An exploration of a criminal investigation involving a suspect with two distinct DNA profiles and the advanced protocols necessary to navigate this profound biological oddity.
- Detective John Menafra – New Jersey State Police Cold Case Unit
- A case study outlining the 1997 homicide of Tamara Tignor and the investigative challenges that led to the case going cold. In 2023, a multi-agency effort and renewed forensic analysis resulted in the identification and charging of the suspect.
- Erik J. Mickelsen – Franklin Twp, NJ Fire Prevention Department
- How to collect Arson Evidence: It’s not what you think!
- Anna Delaney – New Jersey State Police Forensic Anthropology Unit
- Solving the “Freezer Girl” Case: A Study in Atypical Decay. A deep dive into a decades-long identification effort, highlighting the anthropological mastery required to analyze mummified remains found in conditions that defy standard patterns of decay.
