Contributions of Preventive Criminalistic Expertise: The Cuban School of Criminalistics Approach

Abstract

The article examines preventive criminalistic expertises from the perspective of the Cuban School of Criminalistics, highlighting its evolution as a key methodological instrument for the prevention of crimes and extraordinary events. Based on a mixed-methods investigation, which included bibliographic review, international comparative analysis, surveys, and evaluation of expert opinions, it was identified that preventive criminalistics in Cuba is based on the identification and analysis of traces, indications, and vestiges (T+I+V) in spaces where criminal acts have not yet occurred. Its objective is to anticipate risks and issue recommendations for their elimination or mitigation. The study reveals that, despite the consensus on the relevance of preventive expertise, conceptual inaccuracies regarding its scope and objectives still persist. In response to this problem, the article emphasizes the need to strengthen the theoretical and methodological training of experts, consolidating preventive criminalistic expertise as an indispensable scientific tool for public security in the Cuban context. Furthermore, the work explores the theoretical principles that underpin preventive expert activity, its historical background, and the elements that differentiate this type of expertise. It also analyzes the process of formulating forecasts and risk assessment based on the identification of traces and vestiges, allowing for the generation of concrete recommendations to prevent crimes and extraordinary events.