It's no secret, computer technology has impacted all aspects of modern life. As a criminal defense lawyer I have witnessed the vital role technology can play in the prosecution and defense of criminal cases. This Blog will address the impact of data storage devices and how a forensic evaluation of such devices can make or break a case.
I use the term data storage device to include any technology that records and stores data. A personal computer is a rather obvious example of a data storage device. Within the criminal justice system, data storage devices can play a pivotal role because, you guessed it, the data they record can be of great value to the prosecutor or defense attorney.
As potential evidence of a crime can be found within data storage devices, it is now commonplace for law enforcement to seize and search data storage devices as part of their investigation. These searches are often conducted pursuant to a search warrant. For instance, in drug cases it is common for a suspect's cell phone to be seized and searched in order to identify evidence of drug trafficking.
As the capabilities of modern data storage devices continue to expand, so does their potential evidentiary value. As such, an independent forensic examination of the data storage device by a qualified expert can be an integral component in preparing a defense strategy. This is especially true in cases where law enforcement has seized evidence of a crime from a computer hard drive.
If you have questions concerning the role of computer forensics in the criminal justice system, or if you or someone you know are facing criminal charges that might involve digital evidence and data storage devices, please call Cleveland, Ohio criminal defense lawyer Ron Frey for a free consultation at (440) 537-0299.
