CSI-TV gets a reality check

Myth: CSI actors use the equipment properly.
Reality: While the equipment is authentic, it's often used incorrectly. "I watched a show and they sprayed a chemical that makes blood glow in the dark," says Wendell. In real life, "you've got to have your camera on a timer and set up on a tripod because it only glows for 15 seconds." However, on the show, "the lights were on and they were just randomly snapping photos, and I know that's not how it works."

Myth: Forensic officers collect and analyze evidence, interview suspects and apprehend criminals.
Reality: It's a lot more job specific than what you see on TV. "My job is to go to different crime scenes and collect forensic evidence," says Wendell. "That's it." Once Wendell packages and labels everything, she drops it off at the lab and then it's up to the detectives to track down the suspects. If an arrest is made and the case goes to court, then Wendell presents the evidence at trial.

Myth: Crime scene investigators are experts in forensics.
Reality: Forensic officers are trained in all areas of the science, but they only receive a basic overview of the entire field, then it's common for officers to specialize in one particular area, such as blood spatter, footwear impressions, knots, or handwriting analysis. "To have everyone specialize [in all fields] just isn't feasible, and there's a time issue," Wendell says.

Even though CSI contains more fiction than science, Wendell says the popular TV drama can help her profession. "The show's revealed an unknown area of policing. It's generated a lot of interest in the field and I think it will attract young people to forensics."