oct ewj 24 online - Flipbook - Page 82
the trainers and the bleeding person. The re-evaluation led to a reconsideration of the charges. This case
underscores the importance of robust, peer reviewed
analysis and the potential subjectivity within this area.
It highlights the need for forensic scientists to consider
multiple scenarios and conduct experiments to validate their interpretations. The case also demonstrates
the importance of BPA within the criminal justice system and the very real dangers associated with misinterpretation and over interpretation of any blood
patterns present. By integrating detailed case studies
such as this, forensic professionals can enhance their
understanding of BPA and its applications in realworld scenarios, ensuring that forensic evidence is
interpreted accurately and justly.
Challenges in DNA Analysis:
The effectiveness of DNA analysis depends on the
quality and quantity of the blood sample. Non-visible
or very light bloodstains may yield weak DNA profiles,
making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Additionally, environmental factors, such as exposure to
heat or moisture, can degrade DNA, affecting the
reliability of the results.
The Trainer Case Study:
In this case, a pair of trainers was submitted for
examination after an alleged assault. The complainant
stated that he had been punched repeatedly to the
head and had then fallen to the ground. The defendant stated he had struck the complainant to the head
but in self-defence. The prosecution initially interpreted the blood patterns on the trainers of the defendant as supportive of kicking into wet blood. The
bloodstains, as reported by the prosecution, included
a pooling of blood within the welt towards the front
of the toe area, contact bloodstains on the toe, and numerous small spots of blood. The subsequent interpretation suggested that the wearer of the trainers had
kicked the already bleeding complainant, significantly
impacting the charges and the prosecution's narrative.
Conclusion
Blood Pattern Analysis is an indispensable tool in
forensic investigations, offering detailed insights into
the events surrounding violent crimes. However, BPA
must be approached with caution, a robust knowledge
of the strengths and limitations of the discipline and a
solid grounding in the various factors that can influence blood patterns. Continued research, experimentation, and training are essential to enhancing the
scientist’s effectiveness and ensuring accurate, reliable
forensic analysis.
However, upon re-examination by our biology team,
the interpretation of the bloodstains was questioned.
The defence team conducted a series of experiments
to simulate different scenarios involving blood dripping down onto trainers and into adjacent pools of
blood on the floor. The findings showed that highly
similar bloodstain patterns could be produced by
blood dripping in this way with no contact between
Contact Forensic Access
If you require an expert report involving any aspect of
Blood Pattern Analysis, or any other forensic discipline
please contact our Casework Management Team by
email: science@forensic-access.co.uk
or call: 01235 774870.
Connecting you with the right Expert Witness
For over 36 years, Forensic Access has connected defence solicitors with the same
high-quality forensic services as their prosecution counterparts.
Today, Forensic Access has a vast network of experts, enabling us to provide defence teams with
every type of forensic science support available, including:
Blood Pattern and Body Fluid Analysis
Classifications of Weapons and Ammunition
Digital Forensics
DNA Analysis and Interpretation
Drugs and Toxicology
Mobile Phones, Devices and Cell Site Analysis
Pathology and Injury Causation
Psychiatry and Psychology
Work with Forensic Access to find your next Expert Witness:Dedicated Casework Managers - providing end-to-end support
Direct access to a vast network of vetted and experienced forensic and medical experts
We offer CPD webinars to Barristers & Solicitors; and Court & Report Writing training to Experts
Contact our Casework Team
to connect you with the right
forensic experts
EXPERT WITNESS JOURNAL
Telephone: 01235 774870
@forensic-access-limited
@ForensicAccess
80
Email: science@forensic-access.co.uk
Website: www.forensic-access.co.uk
O C TO B E R 2 0 2 4
