Using Infrared Photography to Document Clothing Evidence in the Reconstruction of a Homicide


Michael Gorn and Stuart H. James

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Conclusion

Using IR photography for the documentation of blood staining on dark fabric has been well reported. However, this technique is probably under-utilized in the examination of clothing for blood stain patterns and is one that should be considered in every relevant case. The technique is relatively simple, is non-destructive and does not require the use of blood enhancement reagents which may interfere with further DNA testing. In this case, not only was it useful in providing better contrast between the stains and the color of the fabric, but it allowed for a reconstruction of events in a homicide case and provided probative information for comparison to statements made by the witness.

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Open Access: The International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts Journal is an Open Access publication with all accepted and published manuscripts available at www.iabpa.org to members of the International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts and the general public with permitted reuse. Prior to publication, the Journal will obtain a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license for all accepted manuscripts. This license allows for the distribution of published manuscripts provided proper credit is given to the author(s).

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