Staff Writer
Dr. Henry Lee.
Photo by Kari Damato.
Dr. Henry C Lee, one of the world’s foremost forensic scientists spoke at HCC on April 28 about the role of forensic evidence in solving crimes, from ransom notes to designer shoes. Lee was a prominent figure in many of the most challenging cases in the last 45 years. A few of these cases include the O.J. Simpson trial, the JonBenet Ramsey murder, the Laci Peterson case and the murder of Helle Crafts, also known as the “woodchipper” murder. In addition, Lee has authored hundreds of articles in professional journals and co-authored more than 30 books.
Professor Samantha Mannion, coordinator of the criminal justice program and advisor to the Criminal Justice club, and Professor Joan Lloyd, the chemistry club advisor, thought that Lee would be the perfect speaker.
“Lee encompasses both the scientific expertise and criminal justice know-how. It will make the event the perfect cooperative effort between our two clubs,” said Mannion prior to Lee’s visit.
“We hope that students will come away from his presentation with a greater and more profound appreciation of the critical role that science plays in solving modern crime,” Mannion said. “Science is not perfect, but it has greatly narrowed the margin of error between guilt and innocence that has existed in law enforcement and our society for so long. Dr. Lee is an incredible engaging and entertaining speaker, and we are very pleased and excited to be hosting his presentation.”
Lee spoke in the events center, which was completely full. Immediately his great sense of humor and wittiness captured everyone’s attention. Lee said he came to this country “with $50.00 in my pocket and spoke no English, and now 30 years later I have lots of money but still don’t speak English.”
Throughout the seminar he handed out and even threw mini badges to people who answered questions correctly. As he spoke about the top 10 forensic scientists, he said, “He couldn’t believe the Chinese guy was number one [referring to himself].”
Lee started school in a community college, majoring in chemistry. After finishing school he was not able to attend his commencement because his family didn’t have money. He said he always kept in mind a saying he had learned: some people make things happen, some watch them happen, and others wonder what happened.
It was apparent that he would be the one to make things happen. He shared many photos from throughout his career, from his childhood, him receiving awards and being on talk shows.
Lee said, “This year no more talk shows, I am focusing more time on cases.”
He compared the show C.S.I and actual forensic work. He said the characters on C.S.I. never need warrants. “They carry a flashlight and find all the clues they are looking for, we have all different kinds of lighting and it’s hard to find clues with that,” he said. “C.S.I. also never shows any signs of stress or having to face the community, you need the public’s trust. It’s very important.”
Lee touched on a few of his more prominent cases, explaining his findings and what was involved. He related his different theories on the shooting of JFK. However, he said, “this is one case that will never be solved. When the original bullet was found, it was washed, removing all DNA.”
He concluded with information on the field of Forensics. “It has a lot to offer but it’s more important to find something you are good at and strive for your best,” he said
Lee stayed after the seminar for book signings and pictures.
Lee currently resides in Connecticut and is the Chief Emeritus for Scientific Services for the State of Connecticut and an occasional lecture professor of forensic science at the University of New Haven, where he has helped to set up the Henry C. Lee Forensic Institute. He is also a visiting professor at the East China University of Political Science and Law. Previously, he has served as Connecticut's Commissioner of Public Safety, the Director of the Connecticut State Police Forensic Science Laboratory, and as the state’s chief criminologist from 1979 to 2000.
For more information on Lee and to purchase his videos and/or books, visit http://www.drhenrylee.com.
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