0;examine particles enlarged over 1,000,000 times, thus permitting identification of small mineral particles sometimes adhering to the surface of a larger mineral grain” (Murray & Tedrow, 1975: 42). However, the most commonly used technique that can be used to compare and identify different particles is X-ray technologies (Murray & Tedrow, 1975: 41). Therefore, even minute samples of soil, mineral, or other geological particles can give the investigators a “lead” to the suspects and provide evidence strong enough to put them behind bars. However, some defendants may plead not guilty on the basis of insanity, in order to avoid punishment; it is then important for the court to order psychologists to critically evaluate the mental state of the defendant. There are many tests and techniques psychologists can use to determine the mental health or illness of the defendant. However, in today’s technological world, many psychologists have the advantage of using “computer technology for psychological assessments,” which are more “accurate and consistent in the scoring and the implementation of specific decision rules for deriving interpretive statements” (McCann &Dyer, 1996: 190). Therefore, many of the defendants, who do not want to take responsibilities for their actions, would not be able to pass the computerized and highly effective psychological tests, and would have to pay for their actions in correctional facilities. Many crimes, however, may be committed by a person, who is mentally ill and cannot take responsibility for his/her actions. Thus, this person could plead guilty but be mentally ill (Rehkopf & Fisher, 1997: 144) It is also extremely important to have a proper medical evaluation of the defendants’ mental capacity and his/her responsibility for the crime. Neuropsychologists are the experts in this clinical field and they are able to determine the seriousness of the mental ill...
