What is the primary function of forensic databases in criminal investigations?

The primary function of forensic databases in criminal investigations is to store and compare evidence. These databases are designed to systematically catalog various types of evidence, including fingerprints, DNA profiles, ballistics information, and other forensic samples. When a piece of evidence is collected from a crime scene, it can be entered into the database, enabling law enforcement to compare it against existing records. This process is crucial for identifying potential suspects, linking crimes together, and solving cases by recognizing patterns or matches that might not be evident without such a robust system.

While training for forensic experts, communication with law enforcement, and analyzing criminal behavior are also important aspects of the forensic field, they do not encompass the primary function of what forensic databases specifically aim to achieve in the context of criminal investigations. These other elements support the broader forensic process but do not relate directly to the storage and comparative analysis of evidence, which remains the central role of forensic databases.