Ep 17. Badge Of Betrayal

In season 9 episode 17 of Forensic Files titled "Badge Of Betrayal", the true story of a police officer's betrayal of his colleagues and the subsequent investigation is explored. The episode begins with the discovery of the body of a veteran police officer named Bob Dorotik, who was found beaten and strangled to death in his home. The investigation quickly turns to one of the officer's colleagues, Mark Carver, who had been seen visiting Dorotik's house around the time of his murder.

The detectives begin their investigation by collecting physical evidence from the crime scene, including fingerprints, shoeprints, and DNA samples. They also speak to Carver and other police officers who had worked with Dorotik, trying to piece together a motive for the murder. As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that Carver had a long-standing grudge against Dorotik and had been overheard making threatening comments about him by other members of the police force.

The episode proceeds to detail the intricate forensic analysis that was conducted during the investigation, including the use of luminol to detect hidden blood stains and DNA testing to match the evidence to Carver. The role of the forensic scientists in building the case against Carver is highlighted, including their use of advanced technology to extract DNA from the smallest samples of evidence.

As the evidence begins to pile up against Carver, he becomes increasingly desperate to prove his innocence. He hires his own forensic experts, who attempt to discredit the prosecution's evidence and provide an alternative theory of the crime. But ultimately, the weight of the evidence against Carver proves too much to overcome, and he is convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Throughout the episode, the personal toll of the investigation is also explored, as the investigation causes rifts between members of the police force and forces them to confront the reality of one of their own betraying their trust. The episode ultimately provides a powerful testament to the importance of forensic science in criminal investigations and the tireless efforts of those who dedicate their careers to pursuing justice and uncovering the truth.