Talent Matters Podcast – Episode: #21 – John Sweetman

In this episode of Talent Matters podcast, host Donal O’Donoghue sits down with John

Sweetman author of “Identity: Murder, Fraud and the Making of a Garda Forensic Expert”.

John Sweetman is a former detective garda with a remarkable career in forensic

investigations. Here are the highlights:

Introduction to John Sweetman

John Sweetman’s journey from a young garda to the Garda Technical Bureau. His pivotal

role as both a fingerprint expert and a forensic handwriting and document expert. The

tenacity and eye for detail that defined his career.

High-Profile Cases and Crime Scene Investigations

John discusses Marie Dillon’s brutal murder in Finglas (1998) and the search for forensic

evidence. A number of gangland killings and their investigation. Insights into the challenges

faced during crime scene investigations.

Handwriting Expertise and Document Examination

How John Sweetman applied his expertise to examine fraudulence, threatening letters, and

counterfeit documents. The role of forensic handwriting analysis in solving cases.

Notable Investigations

The murders of Jasmine McGonagle and student Jastine Valdez. The tragic Hawe familicide

in Cavan (2016).

1. Identity: A Memoir and Insight into Forensic Fields

o A peek behind the curtain of how crimes are solved.

o John Sweetman’s nonconformist approach to detective work.

If you’d like to listen to the full podcast episode, you can find it on YouTube or Apple

Podcasts.

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