Like bullets, cartridge cases can be identified as having been fired by a specific firearm. As soon as cartridges are loaded into a firearm the potential for the transfer of unique tool marks exists. However, the cartridge does not have to be fired for these marks to be transferred. Simply loading a cartridge into a firearm can cause unique identifiable marks … [Read more...] about Cartridge Case Identification
Criminalistics
Laser comb system maps 3D surfaces remotely for manufacturing, forensics
NIST's 3D mapping system combines a form of laser detection and ranging (LADAR), which is sensitive enough to detect weak reflected light, with the ranging accuracy made possible by frequency combs, as previously demonstrated at NIST. The frequency comb, a tool for precisely measuring different frequencies of light, is used to continuously calibrate the laser in the imaging … [Read more...] about Laser comb system maps 3D surfaces remotely for manufacturing, forensics
Sherlock Holmes – Consulting Detective
The fog is rolling in, murder is in the air, and you, as one of the Baker Street Irregulars, are out to solve the crime. … [Read more...] about Sherlock Holmes – Consulting Detective
ACE-V Method: the Fingerprint Analysis Process
Fingerprint examiners use the ACE-V (analysis, comparison, evaluation and verification) method to reach a determination on each print. Analysis involves assessing a print to determine if it can be used for a comparison. If the print is not suitable for comparison because of inadequate quality or quantity of features, the examination ends and the print is reported as not … [Read more...] about ACE-V Method: the Fingerprint Analysis Process
Microbial ‘signature’ for Sexual Crimes
Bacterial communities living on an individual's pubic hairs could be used as a microbial 'signature' to trace their involvement in sexual assault cases, according to a study published in the open access journal "Investigative Genetics". Hairs are one of the most common types of trace evidence collected during forensic investigations, but the majority of those recovered from … [Read more...] about Microbial ‘signature’ for Sexual Crimes
