A notable sign in the théâtre du crime

the marks of criminalistics left by Rodolphe A. Reiss in Latin America, 1913

Abstract

During the early years of the 20th century, criminal justice in Latin America, particularly in Brazil, was undergoing a process of modernization and reshaping. The invitation to the renowned German-Swiss criminologist, Rodolphe A. Reiss, to update São Paulo's civil police marked a turning point for the insertion of modern forensic practices into the criminal justice system. This move was not just an attempt to adopt advanced techniques, but also reflected deep social challenges, amplified by the arrival of immigrants and the social implications of this migration. Influenced by positivism, the local elite was aiming for a more interventionist state, promoting a criminology focused on social defense strategies. Since the proclamation of the Republic, São Paulo had been striving to

establish an administrative structure ensuring "public order" and exerting social control. In this context, this article highlights how figures like Reiss made a difference in devising manuals and protocols for cutting-edge criminal investigations. His lectures introduced advanced scientific methods, equipping local professionals with tools to systematically address crime. The decision to bring Reiss to Brazil was primarily backed by his reputation and ability to apply theory to practice. The impact signaled the birth of technical-police education in São Paulo and underscored the idea that the scientific field represented an opportunity to improve the police. Thus, a national debate emerged about creating educational institutions aimed at training a competent scientific police force.