Events

AAFS Plenary Session

AAFS Plenary Session: Thursday 27 February 2025 at 6pm.  Location: The Union University & Schools Club, 25 Bent Street (Cnr Phillip St), Sydney, NSW 2000

Title: A Cocktail of Confusion: An Exploration of Research on Detecting and Managing Intoxicated Victims, Witnesses, and Suspects of Crime

Speaker: Dr Lauren Monds

Abstract: The complexities of alcohol and other drug intoxication in forensic settings present significant challenges for investigators, legal professionals, and forensic scientists alike. In this plenary address, Dr Lauren Monds will explore the intersection of substance use, memory, and forensic science, examining how intoxication affects memory recall and credibility in victims, witnesses, and suspects of crime. Drawing from her research, she will delve into cutting edge methods for detecting and assessing intoxication severity and discuss the potential biases that influence decision‐making in these contexts. The presentation will provide evidence‐based insights and practical recommendations to help forensic professionals navigate the “cocktail of confusion” that intoxication brings to the justice system.

Bio: Dr Lauren Monds is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney and a recognised expert in forensic psychology. Her research focuses on the cognitive and behavioural effects of substance use, particularly in high‐stakes situations involving victims, witnesses, and suspects of crime. With extensive experience in experimental research and applied forensic contexts, Dr Monds has published widely on the topics of memory accuracy during intoxication, methods for detecting and assessing intoxication severity, and the potential biases influencing perceptions of intoxicated individuals. She is passionate about bridging research and practice to improve outcomes in forensic and legal systems.