Purpose:
To develop a basic understanding of the discipline of bloodstain pattern analysis.
Objectives:
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Demonstrate knowledge of the development, history and advancement of bloodstain pattern analysis.
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Define the inherent limitations of bloodstain pattern analysis as a forensic discipline.
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Identify key bloodstain patterns using a taxonomic classification system and understand the mechanism by which they are created.
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Determine impact angles and area of origin for spatter patterns.
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Describe proper protective measures to follow in a bloodstained scene.
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Demonstrate an ability to evaluate a basic bloodstain pattern scene.
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Demonstrate the ability to properly document a bloodstained scene in photographs and written reports.
Students Should Bring, If Possible:
- Old clothing suitable for painting
- Camera
- Calculator with trig. functions
Students Will Learn How To:
- Document a bloodstained scene
- Interpret bloodstain patterns to identify what actions produced these stains
- Identify area of convergence
- Identify area of origin
- Identify minimum number of impact blows
- Apply the scientific method to questioned stains
- Apply the scientific method in statement analysis
Students will Receive:
- Textbook Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, 3rd edition by Bevel & Gardner
- Lab Manual
Students will complete:
- Ten experiments with whole blood
- Analyze multiple bloodstain patterns