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"The DNA is a match."

When you hear that phrase on modern-day detective shows, you know the jig is up; the bad guy has been caught. In a fictional TV world where crimes are solved in 30 minutes, nobody ever questions the authority of DNA evidence.

In real life, though, doubt can easily be cast on it because people get confused by scientific jargon, or because of uncertainties about how the evidence was obtained and handled — in one famous case, the O.J. Simpson murder investigation, both factors ultimately contributed to the outcome of the trial.

• Read more about Eliminating doubt in criminal investigations

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ASU School of Criminology and Criminal Justice professor Michael Reisig received the 2016 Outstanding Graduate Alumni Scholar award from Washington State University's Criminal Justice and Criminology Department. Reisig received his master’s degree from Washington State in 1992 and his doctorate in 1996.  

"I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Reisig. "Being placed in the company of prior honorees, Nancy Rodriguez and Jihong ‘Solomon' Zhao, is very humbling.”

• Read more about ASU criminal justice professor receives outstanding alumni scholar award

Editor's note: As ASU gears up for the start of classes this week, our reporters are spotlighting scenes around its campuses. To read more, click here.

The killer was Miss Scarlet with the candlestick in the conservatory.

“It’s always the candlestick,” said Austin Clemens, shaking his head.

• Read more about Criminology students get a 'Clue' on how to succeed