December 2015 - International Association of Bloodstain Pattern

Transcription

Journal of
Bloodstain Pattern
Analysis
The Official Publication of the
International Association of Bloodstain
Pattern Analysts
Volume 31 Number 3 December 2015
Table of Contents
2015 IABPA Officers
1
President’s Message
2
A Preliminary Validation of the Use of 3D Scanning
for Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
Eugene Liscio1, Sandro Bortot2, John Frankcom3,
Tonya Hackenbrook4, Jeffrey Inch5, Robert Lamarche6,
Trevor Penney7, Brian Allen8, Fons Chafe9, and Brian Yamashita10
3
Abstracts of Presentations and Workshops Given
at the 2015 IABPA Training Conference in Fort Worth, Texas
11
IABPA 2015 Business Meeting Minutes
25
Michael Taylor Recipient of IAPBA
Distinguished Member Award
29
The ANZFSS 23rd ANZFSS International Symposium
on the Forensic Sciences
30
Recent BPA Related Articles in the Scientific Literature
31
Organizational Notices
31
Training Opportunities
32
Editor’s Corner
35
Publication Committee and Associate Editors
36
Past Editors of the IABPA News/Journal of
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
36
Past Presidents of the IABPA
36
2015 IABPA Officers
PRESIDENT
Patrick Laturnus
[email protected]
Vice President - Region I
Pacific
Vice President - Region II
Mountain
Don Schuessler
Richard J. Tewes
[email protected]
[email protected]
Vice President - Region III
Central
Vice President, Region IV
Eastern
DeWayne Morris
Gord Lefebvre
[email protected]
[email protected]
Vice President - Region V
European
Vice President - Region VI
Pacific Rim
Martin Eversdijk
Ted Silenieks
[email protected]
[email protected]
Secretary / Treasurer
Sergeant at Arms
Norman Reeves
Jeffrey Scozzafava
[email protected]
[email protected]
Historian
Stuart H. James
[email protected]
Journal of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
1
Vol. 31 No. 3 December 2015
President’s Message
Here it is the end of another year and time to reflect on the plus - minus of 2015. No doubt about
it…. we find ourselves on the plus side and challenge 2016 to be better. This year we saw two
IAPBA Training Conferences that showcased the great progress we’ve made in our discipline.
Rome, Italy and Fort Worth, Texas were packed with excellent speakers. I was so pleased to attend
and then comment on the Rome conference in the June publication of this Journal.
Fort Worth was outstanding and memorable for the quality of speakers as well as some innovative
ideas. One of the organizers, DeWayne Morris said of the other, Cele Rossi: “Cele took charge of
this thing and worked every aspect to make it such a great success.” We enjoyed the attendance of
141 participants who heard first class speakers. Cele used social media to great advantage and
organized several great networking events that accomplished so much.
It was such a privilege for me to be involved in the presentation of our most recent Distinguished
Member: Dr. Michael Taylor. Michael’s contribution to the discipline of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
reads like he’s the one who discovered it. We have all benefitted and continue to benefit from his
contributions of innovative research and development. He has been a key speaker at so many IABPA
Training Conferences and Michael we look forward to your good health and the next time we meet.
The work of our Committees and the Executive Board provides us with the focus needed to move
forward in today’s challenging forensic landscape. We recognize the need to maintain a strong
scientific basis for analysis, reporting and courtroom testimony. All of these volunteers put in long
hours for the IABPA and we appreciate their work.
As I bring this December 2015 President’s letter to a close it also closes my term as your IABPA
President. This short time has given me some of my favorite memories; it’s been such a great
experience. Thank You. Thank You. Thank You.
Pat Laturnus
President
IAPBA
2
A Preliminary Validation of the Use of 3D Scanning for Bloodstain Pattern
Analysis
Eugene Liscio1, Sandro Bortot2, John Frankcom3, Tonya Hackenbrook4, Jeffrey Inch5, Robert
Lamarche6, Trevor Penney7, Brian Allen8, Fons Chafe9, and Brian Yamashita10
Abstract
3D scanning technology is beginning to be used more commonly to record crime scenes. Besides
being able to document the scene and the locations of evidence within it, 3D scanners and associated
software can now be used to analyze impact bloodstain patterns. In the present study, two “doubleblow” impact patterns were created in a classroom setting for analysis using both the HemoSpat
bloodstain pattern analysis software and the FARO Focus3D scanner with FARO Scene software.
Both methods produced area of origin results that were acceptably close to the actual initial blood
source location.
Introduction
Impact bloodstain patterns, created when a blow is struck, can sometimes be analyzed to try to
determine the approximate location of the source of the blood [1]. With this information in hand, an
investigator can try to determine what might have occurred at the scene of the crime. Blood source
areas of origin may indicate how many blows were struck, and possibly whether or not the victim
was standing, sitting, kneeling, or lying on the ground. This can be used effectively to corroborate
or refute witness, suspect, or victim statements.
A simple low-tech means of analyzing an impact bloodstain pattern is stringing [2-4]. A line
drawn through the long axes of stains on the wall will indicate a direction of travel, in the plane of
the wall for the blood drops that created the stains (γ angle). A simple mathematical equation using
the width and length of the elliptical stain to approximate the angle at which the drop struck the wall
(α angle) can be calculated for each stain being used in the analysis.
Sin (α) = width/length
A length of string can be attached to the wall at the leading edge of a stain, and then can be
oriented to match the γ angle of the long axis of the stain and pulled out until it matches the α angle.
When this is done for several stains, the strings will cross in the approximate vicinity of the blood
source location, or area of origin (Figure 1).
A less cumbersome approach is the so-called “Tangent Method” [2-5]. The lines drawn along the
long axes of the elliptical stains are extended along the wall until they cross at an approximate point
of origin in the plane of the wall resulting in the determination of two dimensions of the blood
source location, the height and the distance from the side wall. The sine of the α angle is calculated
as before from the width and length of each stain. The third dimension of the source location is then
calculated from the tangent of α, using the distance along the wall from the stain to the point of
origin as one leg of a right triangle (side adjacent to angle α). The distance out from the wall is then
the second leg of the right triangle (side opposite angle α).
______________________________________________________________________________
1
Ai2-3D, 352 Via Carmine Avenue, Woodbridge, ON, L4H 2N8, CANADA, 2 Greater Sudbury Police Service, 190
Brady Street, Sudbury, ON, P3E 1C7, CANADA, 3Ontario Provincial Police, Kenora Forensic Identification Services,
20-B1 Anderson Road, P.O. Box 2490, Kenora, ON, P9N 3X7, CANADA. 4Peel Regional Police, 7750 Hurontario
Street, Brampton, ON, L6V 3W6, CANADA, 5Niagara Regional Police, 68 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON, L2R 3C6,
CANADA, 6Ontario Provincial Police, 1 Mille Roches Road, P.O. Box 519, Long Sault, ON, K0C 1P0, CANADA,
7
Royal Canadian Mounted Police, NFISS, 80 Garland Avenue, Mailstop #H-059, Dartmouth, NS, B3B 0J8, CANADA,
8
Ontario Police College, 10716 Hacienda Road, Box 1190, Aylmer, ON, N5H 2T2, CANADA, 9MacEwan University,
Department of Public Safety and Justice Studies, 9-407F, 10700 104 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T5J 4S2, CANADA,
10
Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Integrated Forensic Identification Services, 1200 Vanier Parkway, Ottawa, ON K1A
0R2, CANADA
3
Figure 1. Stringing of a bloodstain pattern.
Computer programs are now available that will calculate where virtual strings will cross resulting
in a calculated area of origin complete with standard deviation. These programs use the concept of
Directional Analysis [3, 6-8] to calculate two dimensions of the source location in the plane of the
floor. A view of the virtual strings from the side is then used to calculate the height of the blood
source. BackTrack™ was one of the first such programs introduced to the bloodstain community [911]. Subsequently, a similar program, HemoSpat, has been developed [12, 13].
Three-dimensional laser scanning has been introduced recently as a new method for capturing
details at a crime scene [14, 15]. Besides being able to record and measure items and locations in
the scene, calculations can also be carried out, measuring things like distances between points [14,
15]. As well, with the correct software installed, the data collected by the 3D scanner can be
processed to determine the area of origin for the bloodstains. Experiments have been done to
demonstrate this technique for bloodstains on a single flat wall [16] and on multiple surfaces [17]
with very acceptable results.
In this study, both the HemoSpat program and the FARO Scene (with Forensic Plugin) were used
to analyze the same bloodstain patterns and the results were compared to the known blood source
locations. A similar comparison study has been done recently, which included comparing the time
required for each form of analysis [18].
Materials and Methods
As part of a bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) course being delivered at the Ontario Police
College, students were instructed to create a “double-blow” impact pattern. A five ( 5) mL pool of
sheep’s blood was placed on top of a wooden post and struck with a hammer, to create a classic Vshaped pattern. A second pattern was created using a different post in a different location so that the
overall pattern consisted of two well-separated impact patterns (Figures 2 and 3).
4
Figure 2. Double-blow pattern created at the Ontario Police College, after stains have
been selected for HemoSpat analysis and 3D scanning.
Figure 3. Offset surfaces from double-blow pattern, after stains have been selected for
HemoSpat analysis and 3D scanning.
5
A second group of students was assigned to analyze the double-blow pattern without knowing the
coordinates of the original blood source location. Processing consisted of selecting a suitable number
of upward-moving stains, measuring their location, and photographing the stains. The data were
entered into the HemoSpat program (Version 1.7.3, FORident Software, Inc., Ottawa, ON) for
analysis, to determine the locations of the two blood sources.
The same pattern was then analyzed using the FARO Focus3D laser scanner and FARO Scene
software (FARO Technologies, Inc., Lake Mary, FL) with Forensic Plugin [16]. The process began
by identifying which stains were to be utilized. Longer and more elliptical stains located in clusters
were ideal since a larger number of stains could be analyzed in a single photograph. Where possible,
clusters of bloodstains were chosen such that they provided good coverage for the area
encompassing the stain. Black and white reference markers were placed amongst chosen clusters of
bloodstains on various surfaces in the scene as shown in Figure 4 and then each cluster was
photographed such that a minimum of 5-8 of the reference markers would be included in each
photograph. These reference markers were used to identify discrete locations between the
photograph and the laser scan data in the FARO Scene software.
Figure 4. Example of reference markers applied to the bloodstained surface prior to 3D
scanning.
Once photographed, the FARO Focus3D laser scanner was used to collect data from the scene for
later analysis. Typically, a dense scan is necessary with a point spacing in the area of the bloodstain
of approximately 1mm or less. A single scan was required to document each individual bloodstain
pattern with a total scanning time of approximately 25 minutes for 4 impacts.
Once the scanning process was complete, the laser scans were imported into the FARO Scene
software as were the images used for each cluster of bloodstains. The basic process in the FARO
Scene software is to create a “virtual scan” by converting each pixel of the photograph into a 3D
point similar to a flat plane. Initially, this virtual scan has a default scale and location and is not
aligned nor oriented in the correct space relative to the bloodstain. Hence, the next step was to
create a plane in each area where the photographs were to be placed on the wall. A selection of
points is made on the laser scan data and a flat plane is created. Subsequently, a matching process
using reference points must be performed. Using the centre of the reference markers as a selected
location the corresponding point (or closest point available) in the laser scan data is selected. This
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process was repeated a minimum of five times with a well distributed set of points. The photograph
(or virtual scan) was then scaled and “fit” to the 3D data. The FARO Scene software reports how
well the ‘fit” of the photograph matches the 3D data by reporting a 2D and 3D deviation. The 2D
deviation is reported in pixels while the 3D deviation was reported in millimetres. If done properly
and with minimal errors, the result in the 3D View will appear to match well with only possible
minor mismatches to the scan data.
Once the photograph was scaled and oriented, the process of marking the bloodstains began. A
planar view of the photograph was opened and using the computer mouse, the start and end points
along the major axis of the bloodstain ellipse were marked. Using the mouse scroll wheel the minor
axis of the bloodstain ellipse was adjusted prior to clicking the back end point of the ellipse. Linear
trajectories are immediately drawn showing a visual representation of the calculated impact angle.
The ellipse marking was repeated several times for each photograph depending on the quality and
quantity of bloodstains in each respective photograph. Once completed, it was then possible to
calculate the closest point of intersection for the individual photograph.
The process of aligning the next photograph was repeated by creating a new plane (if necessary),
then matching the photograph to the laser scan data, marking the ellipses and calculating a new point
of origin for each individual photograph. Once all photographs were properly aligned to the scan
data and had all their respective bloodstain ellipses marked, the entire set of trajectories were used to
calculate the point of origin using the trajectories from all photographs. See Figures 5 and 6 for the
results for the two double-blow patterns analyzed here.
Figure 5. Results generated by the FARO scanner superimposed on the crime scene for the first double-blow.
7
Figure 6. Results generated by the FARO scanner superimposed on the second crime scene for the second
double-blow pattern.
Results
The known blood source locations, the results from the HemoSpat analysis and the results from the
FARO processing are given in Table 1. As previously stated, the HemoSpat results were all
generated with the analysts not knowing the actual blood source locations. Similarly, the FARO
results were generated without any prior knowledge of the blood source locations.
Discussion
Validation studies have shown that the BackTrack™ suite of programs was capable of generating
results that could determine an approximate area of origin within a few cm of the actual source
location [9-11]. The HemoSpat program uses the same principles as BackTrack™, so it is expected
that HemoSpat results would also fall well within an acceptable range of area of origin coordinates
[12, 18, and 19]. The HemoSpat experiments done here provide another validation trial for the
program when the results generated are compared to the known blood source locations. Similar
unpublished validation trials are done every time this particular BPA course is taught.
As Table 1 indicates, the HemoSpat Y value, corresponding to the vertex of the “V” pattern, is
determined with the greatest accuracy overall. In most cases, the height value, Z, shows the greatest
discrepancy, as expected, with a maximum difference of 12 cm (4.7 inches). Because the drops are
falling due to gravity, their flight paths are not always well-approximated by a straight line, so using
a linear approximation will always trace a path back that goes above the actual blood source
location. Knowing that the flight trajectory of a blood drop will be affected by gravity, the
experiments done here tried to mitigate this effect by striking the blood from a location close to the
walls. It should be noted that in an actual crime scene, if the source of blood is far from the walls,
and the drops in flight have deviated greatly from a straight line approximation, the error for the Z
coordinate may be greater than the differences reported here. However, the X and Y coordinates can
still be estimated from stains created by downward moving drops [20].
8
Table 1 Comparison of results generated using the HemoSpat program vs. the FARO 3D scanner. Differences
between calculated results and actual source coordinates are given in parentheses.
Impact #1
X=
Y=
Z=
Actual/cm
56.0
51.0
17.0
HemoSpat/cm (Δ)
63.8 (+7.8)
52.4 (+1.4)
29.0 (+12.0)
FARO/cm (Δ)
63.9 (+7.9)
53.3 (+2.3)
21.5 (+4.5)
Impact #2
X=
Y=
Z=
Actual
33.0
131.0
56.0
HemoSpat
33.8 (+0.8)
131.5 (+0.5)
61.8 (+5.8)
FARO
30.1 (-2.9)
133.6 (+2.6)
63.8 (+7.8)
Impact #3
X=
Y=
Z=
Actual
25.5
136.0
68.0
HemoSpat
24.4 (-1.1)
137.0 (+1.0)
68.4 (+0.4)
FARO
21.4 (-4.1)
135.6 (-0.4)
58.4 (-9.6)
Impact #4
X=
Y=
Z=
Actual
60.0
56.0
17.5
HemoSpat
60.0 (0.0)
55.8 (-0.2)
17.8 (+0.3)
FARO
55.9 (-4.1)
51.9 (-4.1)
18.3 (+0.8)
The results of the FARO analysis are comparable to the HemoSpat results with respect to the
actual blood source locations. In most cases the difference between the FARO value and the known
location was slightly greater than it was for the HemoSpat result. However, the greatest difference
of 7.9 cm (3.1 inches) would be less than the radius of a basketball (or a human head), and would be
considered a very acceptable result. Further, the fact that the FARO provides a 3D result that
includes the image of the room allows for visualization of the blood source location in context as
soon as the analysis is completed.
The FARO data collection proceeded very quickly but the subsequent analysis is quite involved.
Although the FARO results corresponded well to the HemoSpat results, the instrument is expensive
and the training required to use it is not trivial. However, if the instrument is already available, and
an experienced analyst is present, the use of FARO technology would rival the use of a program like
HemoSpat. An experienced FARO operator can conclude an analysis in a short period of time [18]
and it could be accomplished easily by an investigator working alone. The HemoSpat program is
much less expensive than 3D scanning equipment. Also, as the present results indicate, it is easy for
“first-time users”, like the students in this course, to learn to use the software to generate very good
results. Recent updates to HemoSpat allow for the processing of “clusters” of stains that require the
9
YZ measurements of only a single stain in the group, making overall processing quicker, or allowing
for the straightforward inclusion of many more bloodstains in the analysis (A. Maloney, personal
communication).
Both methods of impact pattern analysis produced very acceptable blood source location
coordinates. Analysts could choose to use either method and be confident that the results would be
comparable to one another. X and Y coordinates for the blood source can be determined with good
accuracy, while the error in the Z coordinate will depend on the extent to which gravity has affected
the flight paths of the drops of blood.
Acknowledgements
We thank Andy Maloney for providing the HemoSpat software, and for many helpful discussions.
References
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
Young T and Ortmeier PJ. Crime Scene Investigation. The Forensic Technician’s Field Manual. Upper Saddle
River, NJ: Pearson; 2011, 297-299.
Ibid., 311-314
Bevel T and Gardner RM. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: With an Introduction to Crime Scene Reconstruction, 3rd
Ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press; 2008, 183-197.
James SH, Kish PE, and Sutton TP. Principles of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: Theory and Practice. Boca Raton,
FL: CRC Press; 2005, 217-239.
Chafe F. The Tangent Method and Spreadsheets. Determining Point or Area of Origin in Bloodstain Pattern
Analysis, IABPA News. 2007; 23 (3): 4 – 14.
Carter AL and Podworny EJ. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis with a Scientific Calculator. Can. Soc. Forensic Sci. J.
1991; 24 (1): 37-42.
Carter AL. The Directional Analysis of Bloodstain Patterns. Theory and Experimental Validation. Can. Soc.
Forensic Sci. J. 2001; 34 (4): 173-189.
Carter AL. Directional Analysis of Bloodstain Patterns with a Computer in: James SH, Kish PE, and Sutton TP.
Principles of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: Theory and Practice. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press; 2005, 241-261.
Wright JC. The Validation of BackTrack™ for Use in Casework in the UK. Presented at: International Association
of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts Training Conference, Harrisburg, PA, October 2002.
Carter AL, Illes M, Maloney K, Yamashita AB, Allen B, Brown B, Davidson L, Ellis G, Gallant J, Gradkowski A,
Hignell J, Jory S, Laturnus PL, Moore CC, Pembroke R, Richard A, Spenard R, and Stewart C. Further Validation
of the BackTrack™ Computer Program for Bloodstain Pattern Analysis – Precision and Accuracy. IABPA News.
2005; 21 (3): 15 - 22.
Carter AL, Forsythe-Erman J, Hawkes V, Illes M, Laturnus P, Lefebvre G, Stewart C, and Yamashita B. Validation
of the BackTrack Suite of Programs for Bloodstain Pattern Analysis. J. Forensic Ident. 2006; 56 (2): 242-254.
<www.forident.com> Accessed October 26, 2015.
Maloney K, Killeen J, and Maloney A. The Use of HemoSpat to Include Bloodstains Located on Nonorthogonal
Surfaces in Area-of-Origin Calculations. J. Forensic Ident. 2009; 59 (5): 513-524.
<www.faro.com/measurement-solutions/industries/forensics> Accessed October 16, 2015.
<http://psg.leica-geosystems.us> Accessed October 22, 2015.
Hakim N and Liscio E. Calculating Point of Origin of Blood Spatter Using Laser Scanning Technology. J. Forensic
Sci. 2015; 60 (2): 409-417.
Lee R and Liscio E. The Accuracy of Laser Scanning Technology on the Determination of Bloodstain Origin. Can.
Soc. Forensic Sci. J. Accepted for publication.
Dubyk M and Liscio E. Validation Study in the Analyzing of Bloodstain Impact Patterns Comparing the FARO®
X330 Laser Scanner to Hemospat. Submitted for publication.
deBruin KG, Reinoud RD and Limborgh JCM. Improving the Point of Origin Determination in Bloodstain Pattern
Analysis. J. Forensic Sci. 2011; 56 (6): 1476-1482.
Illes MB, Carter AL, Laturnus PL, and Yamashita AB. Use of the BackTrack™ Computer Program for Bloodstain
Pattern Analysis of Stains from Downward-Moving Drops. Can. Soc. Forensic Sci. J. 2005; 38 (4): 213-217.
10
Abstracts of Presentations and Workshops Given at the 2015 IABPA Training
Conference in Fort Worth, Texas
Presentations
Mechanism of Injury and Resulting Bloodstains
Daniel Christman
Abstract:
Crime scene investigators see a variety of wounds resulting from both intentional and
unintentional injury. The most common types of injuries observed in criminal investigations can be
sorted into three distinct categories:
1. Blunt Force Injuries: Abrasions, Contusions, and Lacerations and Fractures
2. Sharp Force Injuries: Stab Wounds and Incised Wounds
3. Firearm Injuries: Gunshot Wounds
Bloodstain pattern analysts routinely examine the relative size, shape and distribution of
bloodstains, but before their conclusions are memorialized in a final report, analysts must review all
relevant information available. One of the key portions of a bloodstain pattern analysis is
establishing and understanding the nexus between injuries and bloodshed.
This presentation is designed to help correctly identify, describe, and understand the mechanism of
injury, and then predict the resulting type of bloodstain evidence one might expect to see during the
course of an investigation.
Documentation of Bloodstain Pattern Crime Scenes and Evidence in the 21st Century
Toby L. Wolson
Abstract:
This presentation is a review of the bloodstain pattern evidence documentation procedures in a
digital age.
Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
Subcommittee Update
Toby L. Wolson
Abstract:
This presentation is an update discussing the goals, objectives and progress of the OSAC BPA
Subcommittee.
11
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Procedures ISO Accredited
Philippe Esperança, CBPE
Abstract:
The Forensic expert has to demonstrate that his expertise conclusions follow a strong, independent
and coherent argumentation and a demonstrative method. With this goal and following the
recommendations of the 2009 NAS report, I established bloodstain pattern analysis procedures
following the ISO 17020 standard. This ISO standard asks to demonstrate the independence and
objectivity of the expert, the methods used and his maintain of competences to be able to provide
robust BPA conclusions. The same standard provides guidelines to the report written to show the
procedures followed, the analyses done, their results and the conclusion reached. This presentation
will show you my Bloodstain Pattern Analysis procedures ISO accredited and a model of a BPA
report.
Bloodstain Pattern Identification Key
Abstract:
The first step of the Bloodstain Pattern Analysis is the recognition of the bloodstains studied. It’s
well admitted that the recognition has to be through the examination of the shapes, locations and
distribution patterns of bloodstains. This identification process reminded me my first academic
studies: Entomology. For insects as well as for all animals and plants, exists key of identification
allowing their user to identify the insect, animal or plant that he is studying. So why not doing the
same for the bloodstain recognition!
I needed seven years to establish a robust bloodstain pattern identification key that I am ready to
present you during this meeting. Using this tool for the bloodstain pattern recognition allowed me to
obtain the ISO 17020 accreditation for my global bloodstain pattern analysis procedures.
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis in Forensic European Community
Abstract:
The ENFSI Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Project Group (ENFSI BPA PG) had been approved
without objection at the 2013 ENFSI Annual Meeting. The ENFSI BPA PG challenge is to bring
together organizations actively pursuing bloodstain pattern analysis methods for exchanging and
disseminating BPA knowledge and in particular:




To discuss, share and compare bloodstain pattern analysis methods, protocols and
research;
To establish bloodstain pattern analysis quality assurance guidelines and quality
controls for Europe;
To co-operate with other national and international organizations in developing
European standards for bloodstain pattern analysis;
To serve as a mechanism for the review and revision of European guidelines for
bloodstain pattern analysis;
12

To disseminate to the European forensic bloodstain pattern analysis community,
ENFSI guidelines, forensic research results, the provision of training and any other
work of benefit.
Fifteen ENFSI member institutes were present at the inaugural meeting – this has now increased to
nineteen, of which sixteen are ENFSI members. Sixteen countries were represented. The
representatives have shown enthusiasm and a willingness to invest time. This demonstrates the
demand for a forum of discussion in relation to BPA. A third meeting is already planned for Berlin
in 2016.
Do We ‘See’ What We ‘Think’? - An eye tracking approach to bloodstain pattern
classification
Ravishka Arthur M.Sc. (Hons), R.M. Arthur, K.G. de Bruin, and M.C. Taylor
Abstract:
One of the fundamental skills of a bloodstain pattern expert is the ability to visually identify
unique characteristics of bloodstain patterns and relate this to the most likely causative mechanism.
Well-trained and experienced experts can easily identify and describe pattern features with reference
to established blood-fluid dynamics. However, little is actually understood about how these features
are consolidated to form a pattern classification.
We hypothesize that by studying the eye movements of BPA experts when viewing different
bloodstain patterns, it might be possible to infer how experts process a pattern. This may allow us to
isolate the main visual characteristics that experts spend time/attention looking at.
The proposed experiment raises some interesting questions. For example, could training experts to
‘look’ in critical areas of the pattern help with forming more reliable pattern conclusions? Are there
areas of the pattern that warrant greater attention or could there be features that are commonly
misinterpreted by different experts?
This presentation outlines the rationale behind eye tracking BPA experts and calls for the
participation of volunteers for a preliminary eye tracking experiment.
Fifty Shades of Blood: The Fundamentals of Blood and Fabric Interaction Under the Slow
Motion Microscope
Dr. Elisabeth Williams, Margaret Dodds and Dr. Michael Taylor
Abstract:
Violent crime resulting in bloodshed often sees the deposition of blood on clothing, linen and
upholstery. Objective analysis of bloodstains on those items can significantly improve the reliability
of the crime scene reconstruction. The ability to classify small stains on a suspect’s clothing, for
example, might offer an estimation of the distance between the wearer and the blood source during
the bloodshed event. The dynamics of blood and fabric interaction present a complex problem for
the forensic investigator. Previous research investigating how bloodstains form on fabric surfaces
has focussed on passive stains and has been largely observational, but distorted and asymmetric
spreading have been reported. Subsequently there is a dearth of objective information regarding the
effects of particular fabric properties on the spreading behavior of impacting blood drops.
A systematic pilot study was conducted to characterise the micro-dynamics of spatter and porcine
blood drops on twelve different fabrics. Spatter drops were produced using a purpose-built
motorized blood droplet generation device. The fabrics selected represented a spectrum of fibre type
and knit/weave structure commonly seen in clothing. Two high-speed video cameras, one fitted with
a microscope lens, were used to capture the impact dynamics of blood impacting fabric surfaces.
13
The very high resolution and magnification of the microscope lens facilitated the capture of impact
and spreading dynamics with a level of detail not previously reported. These images enabled some
characterisation of the droplet to stain transition on different fabric surfaces. This has shed some
light on the effect of different fabric characteristics on bloodstain formation.
From My Perspective - AKA Photographic Point Perspective Corrections for Reconstruction
Lynne D. Herold
Abstract:
Perspective is defined as the ability to see all relevant data in a meaningful relationship and the
technique of depicting volumes and spatial relationships on a flat surface. It would seem obvious
that all of bloodstain pattern interpretation is dependent upon the proper and accurate appearance and
spatial relationships that objects or a scene present to the eye. In BPA we strive to preserve the
appearance of the 3-dimensional relationships and sizes in the form of 2-dimensional documentation
by photography. But not all scenes are photographed for the purpose of BPA, only to find later in the
investigation or prosecution there are probative questions that could possibly be answered by BPA.
In addition, if the photographer is not the analyst, it is not uncommon to find that some photographs
taken for the purposes of BPA are not adequate in the eyes of the analyst. Is that information
irretrievable and lost to the investigator, justice system and trier of facts?
This presentation will include (but is not limited to):
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Brief review of the conceptual basis of point perspective, vanishing point and parallax,
Some tricks-of-the-trade for monitoring best practice photographic technique
the conceptual basis of parallax and internal scaling to ensure accurate and precise 3-D to 2D documentation
Practical casework examples using parallax and internal scaling for possible conceptual
rectifications of photographs for the purposes of BPA that were successful, or NOT.
The Report Everyone Wants to Write
Norman Reeves
Abstract:
The presentation is a discussion about bloodstain pattern analysis report writing, suggested
methods and formats. Requirements in different countries and jurisdictions for report writing will be
discussed. The relationship of writing a bloodstain pattern analysis report to the court system and
attorneys will be discussed.
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The report you have written and using it to the maximum benefit.
Common wording, grammar and spelling mistakes in the English language.
Proofreading methods will be suggested in the presentation.
The presentation will help with eliminating the OMG moments on the stand or in deposition
by providing proofreading techniques.
The advantages and limitations of peer review of your case and report.
The good, bad and the ugly, examples of reports written in the past by the presenter and
others.
Input from the attendees of methods for report writing in their jurisdiction and experience.
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Cranial Backspatter Pattern Production Utilizing Human Cadaver
Celestina Rossi
Abstract:
Have you ever had to answer the question on the stand, “Investigator, are you trying to tell this
jury that shooting a blood soaked sponge is the same as shooting a real person?” And have you ever
thought twice about answering “Yes” or “The distribution is consistent”?
This presentation will look at the results of using a human cadaver to record the distribution of
backspatter. The results were compared to shooting a blood soaked sponge at 18 inches to determine
if in fact the results are the same.
Fabrics and Training and Reports……Oh my!
LeeAnn Singley
Abstract:
A firm believer in on-going professional development and training, I have recently completed the
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis on Fabrics training course developed by my Aussie friends and
colleagues, Dr. Mark Reynolds and Mr. Ted Silenieks. Bloodstain pattern analysts have long
understood that the target surface has a profound effect on the resulting bloodstains and patterns we
observe. Perhaps for some though, the true difficulty associated with the analysis of bloodstains on
fabrics has been misunderstood.
Fabrics, particularly the clothing we examine in an investigation, carry with it not only the
challenges of the substrate, but also the challenges surrounding the fact that clothing often moves
during and after blood is deposited. In an attempt to employ the knowledge obtained during training
and apply it to “real life” situations, I began a study of the microscopic features of bloodstains on
various clothing items. The items were worn by “role-players” utilized in the preparation of mock
crime scenes. Features such as micro-satellite stains and coated fibers were noted to study the
correlation between fabric types and the characteristics of spatter and transfer stains.
Preliminary data from this study will be shared. Time permitting, the presentation will then shift
focus to a brief discussion of Bloodstain Pattern Analyst training requirements and report review.
Triple Helix - Case Presentation
Jo Millington
This presentation aims to convey the key scientific and court-based issues which arose during the
investigation into the death of a Kent teenager in 2006. The case generated a mass of complex
scientific (blood and DNA) evidence which brought challenges in interpretation and ultimately in
presentation to the court. These challenges were addressed through close collaboration of scientists
and counsel and involved the design of bespoke experimentation to investigate defence scenarios
relating to blood transfer.
3D Technologies for Bloodstain Documentation
Eugene Liscio
Abstract:
The use of 3D technologies extends to more than just general crime scene documentation.
Bloodstain Patterns can be analyzed and measured in great detail such that information that was not
15
documented at the crime scene may be obtained through techniques of combining 3d data with crime
scene photographs. This presentation will focus on the laser scanner, photogrammetry and
structured light scanners and how they can be used to document, analyze and visualize a crime scene
for investigative purposes.
Accuracy, Bias and the Role of Contextual Information in Bloodstain Pattern Classification
Niki Osborne
Abstract:
It is becoming increasingly apparent that contextual information can exert a considerable influence
on decisions about forensic evidence. Here, we explored how analyst characteristics relate to
accuracy and bias on a bloodstain pattern classification task. Thirty-nine bloodstain pattern analysts
with varying degrees of experience each completed measures of Compliance, Decision-Making
style, and Need for Closure. Analysts first examined a bloodstain pattern without any additional
contextual information, and allocated votes to listed pattern types according to favoured and less
favoured classifications. Next, if they believed it would assist with their classification, analysts could
request items of contextual information—from commonly encountered sources of information in
bloodstain pattern analysis—and update their vote allocation. We calculated a shift—or bias—score
based on vote reallocations as a function of each item of contextual information. Almost all items of
contextual information influenced decision-making, with medical findings leading to the highest
shift scores. Although shift scores were positively associated with an intuitive decision-making style,
overall, bias in this study was a general tendency and did not vary meaningfully as a function of the
cognitive measures and decision-making styles under investigation, or a lack of experience. Almost
all of the erroneous classifications were made by novice analysts. The implications of our findings
will be discussed.
Accident or Murder
Martin Eversdijk
Abstract:
In May 2009 a very young girl died of extreme loss of blood caused by a slashed throat in her
mother’s house. The mother’s ex-boyfriend, who was responsible for the cutting of the young girl’s
carotid artery and jugular, stated it was an accident that happened in the living room. Her mother
who was present when her daughter’s throat was cut had a totally different statement on the location
and manner of the fatal cutting.
This presentation will discuss the crime scene and the physical evidence in this case including
issues involving bloodstain pattern analysis, the statements by the opposing sides, the highlights of
the BPA report and how it was written. Also the contribution of BPA in coherence with other
forensic investigations/ outcomes that played a huge role during court in how the bloodstain patterns
where most likely produced will be discussed.
Using Dried Blood Drops for Determining the Area of Origin, Science or Science Fiction?
Martin Eversdijk
Abstract:
A part of Bloodstain pattern analysis is determining the location of the blood source or the area of
origin that created an impact pattern. Forensic bloodstain pattern analysts commonly use the
stringing or tangent method to determine where this location was. These techniques are based on
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straight flight lines of the blood drops to calculate the Area of Origin. Recently, some forensic
researchers claim to have a more accurate measure method to reconstruct the accurate trajectory by
calculating the impact velocity directly from the shape and volume of dried bloodstains. This
presentation will discuss some of the fundamental physics and mathematics to better understand the
principles that contribute to the production of impact patterns. By understanding these principles you
will be able to give answer to the question if the impact velocity of dried blood drops can be
accurately calculated and used in court or will this be science fiction.
Free Software that can Improve BPA Reports: Typical Crime and Lonely Wolf Cases”
Kacper Choromanski
Abstract:
Every expert knows that a good BPA report has to be correct by all technical and logical standards.
It also has to be clear so that everyone who would read it would understand its conclusions.
Experienced experts know that sometimes there are language problems, especially when analyst
wants to describe location and position of offender or wants to describe the place where the crime
happened. Thankfully we can use software that allows us to visualize scenarios that we want do
describe. Unfortunately, quite often those programs are expensive, very specific and hard to use.
It is a serious obstacle for people who are not familiar with sophisticated 3D modeling or for
experts and administration that can't afford such type of expensive software. In his presentation, the
author will show free software that can help to improve BPA reports. The presentation will introduce
the software, describe how it works and show what kind of result it can provide. Author will
compare results of standard written report with the report containing simple 3D visualizations. This
would help us to understand what kind of results can be expected by using this software and how
helpful it can be. The cases that will be shown include: typical bloody crime case and also very
specific case which is "lone wolf case".
This presentation is directed to all listeners. It will be helpful for beginners and advanced experts,
both from private sector and from administration. The presentation of the potential of this software
can be helpful both for countries that are trying to introduce BPA and for the jurisdictions that have
been using BPA for many years. It can be a great starting point for thinking about new methods of
BPA visualization in the modern court.
Drying Blood in a Glovebox in a Controlled Atmosphere
Celine Nicloux
Abstract:
Bloodstain pattern analysis provides answers to the questions “Where and What”. DNA answers to
the question about the “Who” but what can we learn more from blood on our crime scenes if we look
at it with a fresh look?
Several publications exist concerning morphological criteria of a human serum drop while drying.
Comparison has been made between serums which are presenting difference in their cracks and
desiccation patterns. What about whole human blood? What could we learn in its drying cracks?
Working since 2009 with the French National Center of Research and being part of a research
project sponsored by the National Research Program with three others Science Institutes, we are
working on “blood while drying”.
First difficulty during our experiments was being as close as possible from the reality of our
scenes. Blood is a complex fluid which continues to 'live' while outside the body and its composition
is different from one day to another and from one people to another, so how obtain repeatability in
experiments?
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Furthermore, numerous medical publications exist concerning blood inside a body but what
happens to blood as soon as it's outside? Which influences have surroundings on it and on its cracks?
This presentation does not claim to answer to all those questions, but only presents what we
already learned about it through all our experiments until now?
Field Examples of Innovative Luminol Applications
David Neale
Abstract:
Chemical treatment of an area using luminol is a common way of detecting trace amounts of
blood. The power of this technique is demonstrated in two case studies that both involve significant
visible bloodstaining. The interpretation/reconstruction of events at the scenes was then added to
using the results of luminol testing. The first case study involves the tracking of the movements of a
suspect through a house and then through their own property and involves comparison of luminol
enhanced foot impressions with test impressions of the suspect’s feet. The second case study
describes the following of a trail of footwear impressions from the homicide scene at the victim’s
house to the suspect’s address over four consecutive nights. This allowed investigators to
corroborate stories and led the Police Specialist Search Team to focus on what turned out to be an
area of high significance in the case.
BPA in the Courtroom – Taking a BPA Case to trial
Brett Ligon and Kelly Blackburn
Abstract:
Courtroom Demonstratives
Iris Dalley
Abstract:
We examine the interrelationships of bloodstain patterns and other physical evidence in the context
of the scene to gain explicit knowledge of the events that occurred. The ultimate goal is to present
that information to the Court in ways that are both accurate and understandable. A well-written
report describes the scene, but mental images of the description may be as varied as the number of
people reading the report. Courtroom demonstratives complement and clarify the written description,
so that mental images are more consistent with the scene and evidence. The Court can then visualize
the interrelationships of evidence in the context of the scene. This lecture will discuss various
techniques for developing and publishing demonstrative exhibits that are both cost effective and
simple to produce.
Factors Affecting the Near-Infrared Detection of Blood Evidence on Dyed Apparel Fabrics
Tess Mercer1, S. MacA. Fergusson1, Rajiv Padhye1, Edmund Silenieks2
Abstract:
The aim of crime scene analysis is to gather all physical and visible evidence possible. This
contributes essential information to investigators for an accurate interpretation of the crime scene,
identification of those involved and the corroboration and exoneration of witness' statements.
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Blood is one of the most frequently encountered types of evidence at a crime scene. Unfortunately
it is not always easy to detect. With the help of a Near-Infrared-converted digital camera, noninvasive bloodstain screening on dark or patterned fabrics is made possible. However, not all fabrics
allow for blood to be visualised using Near-Infrared photography.
This research investigates the influence different dyes have on a Near-Infrared converted camera's
ability or inability to capture blood evidence on fabrics, otherwise hidden from the unaided eye.
Each dyed fabric's unique interface reaction with the blood, coupled with the dye used, altered the
bloodstain's visibility and appearance. This enabled the establishment of factors prohibiting NearInfrared blood-visualisation, permitting predictions for other problematic fabric and dye
combinations.
Ultimately, this will aid forensic analysis of clothing, whereby fabrics which do not display any
blood under the Near-Infrared camera can be classified as problematic - based on fabric fibre origin,
construction and dye, or as non-problematic classes of dyed fabric.
Workshops
Advanced BPA of Fabrics: Understanding the Fundamentals
Edmund (Ted) Silenieks and Dr. Mark Reynolds
Abstract:
When blood is shed during the commission of a violent offence, the clothing of the victim(s), the
perpetrator(s) and nearby witnesses may become bloodstained. As such bloodstained clothing is
regularly examined during the forensic investigation of those events. Whilst the use of DNA
profiling to identify the contributor (source level evidence) of the bloodstains observed is now a
routine and scientifically reliable procedure, the determination of the behaviour of those involved in
the bloodshed event (activity level evidence) often relies, wholly or in part, on the correct evaluation
and interpretation of the bloodstains and bloodstain patterns on the clothing items examined.
This workshop explores fundamental concepts germane to the accurate evaluation of these
bloodstains and bloodstain patterns including the influence of fabric construction, fabric
composition, 2D versus 3D exhibit examination, resultant vector concepts and curved surface
influences. Workshop discussion will also highlight the fact that the theoretical models governing
the evaluation and interpretation of bloodstains and bloodstain patterns on smooth, static non-porous
surfaces often cannot be simply applied in the same manner when assessing bloodstains and
bloodstain patterns on fabrics. Workshop attendees will gain preliminary insight into the added
complexities involved in the assessment of bloodstains and bloodstain patterns on fabrics with a
view that a greater understanding of the potential influences of the variables explored during the
workshop may assist to improve the forensic value and reliability of the examinations they perform.
Pump up the (Blood) Volume: Simulated Projected Blood Patterns using the Arterial Pump
Gillian Leak and Jo Millington
Abstract:
The practical demonstration of vascular or ‘arterial damage staining’ in BPA training relies largely
upon the use of various syringes and other props to simulate projected bloodstain patterns. The
Arterial Pump1 was developed in order for practitioners to generate and examine stains which more
accurately reflect those produced in vivo; however, access to this equipment can be limited. This
workshop provides participants with a rare opportunity to see the arterial pump in action, and to
examine and record the blood patterns that can be generated on clothing and surfaces commonly
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encountered at scenes of crime. Photography during the workshop is encouraged and written
permission to use any images in teaching or for publication can be sought from Jo Millington
([email protected]).
1.
Stokes, M., C. Price and A. Emes. 1994. The Arterial Pump: A device for simulating arterial bleeding. MPFSL
Report: 1-15.
Impact Pattern Analysis and Visualization with HemoSpat
Andy Maloney
Abstract:
HemoSpat (http://hemospat.com) is a software tool used to determine the area of origin of an
impact pattern based on photos of the impact spatter and other scene documentation. It is designed
for analysts who have completed at least a basic 40 hour bloodstain course; however this workshop
is open to any who are interested. The purpose of this workshop is to give the attendees an overview
of HemoSpat’s basic capabilities and to provide some hands on experience. It is targeted at
participants who have never used HemoSpat or current users who need a refresher on the basics.
The general outline is as follows:
Introduction/Background
2) Key Concepts
3) A Tour of the Interface
4) (Hands On) Analysis of a Single Surface Pattern
5) (Hands On) Visualization of Your Data
6) Questions/Comments/Suggestions
1)
Participants should have a laptop they can install the software on (Mac OS X or Windows). A
student version of the software will be used which requires an internet connection to function.
Participants will be able use the software until 01 November 2015 should they want to experiment
with it after the conference.
3D Technologies for Area of Origin Analysis
Eugene Liscio
Abstract:
The benefit of utilizing 3D technologies in an area of origin analysis is that documentation time is
significantly reduced while the whole analysis can be visualized inside a virtual environment. This
workshop will focus on using the laser scanner for an area of origin analysis and will give attendees
a chance to use the hardware and software to perform an area of origin analysis. In addition, other
methods of documentation will be shown and attendees will have a chance to process photographs to
create a 3D model of a bloodstained piece of evidence.
IAI – BPA Certification Test Preparation
Jeff Gurvis
This workshop will review the IAI Bloodstain Pattern Analyst Certification Program, collaboration
with IABPA, application requirements, and testing process. Attendees will get a feel for the various
types of questions on the test as well as practice with sample questions.
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Daniel Christman
Toby L. Wolson
Philippe Esperanca
Ravishka Arthur
Dr. Elisabeth Williams
Lynn D. Herold
Norman Reeves
Celestina Rossi
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LeeAnn Singley
Edmund (Ted) Silenieks
Dr. Mark Reynolds
Gillian Leaks
Jo Millington
Andy Maloney
Eugene Liscio
Jeff Gurvis
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Niki Osborne
Martin Eversdijk
Kacper Choromanski
Celine Nicloux
Kelly Blackburn
Brett Ligon
David Neale
Iris Dalley
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Tess Mercer
Current Daniel Rahn Memorial Grant Recipient
President Pat Laturnus with Past Presidents of the IABPA in attendance at the Conference. Top row L-R. Tom
“Grif” Griffin, Pat Laturnus, Todd A. Thorne, Dan Christman and Toby Wolson. Bottom row L-R. Iris Dalley
and LeeAnn Singley
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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLOODSTAIN PATTERN ANALYSTS
2015 Business Meeting Minutes
September 30, 2015
Fort Worth, Texas
Officers in Attendance
Pat Laturnus, President
Donald Schuessler, Vice President Region I
Richard Tewes, Vice President Region II
DeWayne Morris, Vice President Region III
Gord Lefebvre, Vice President Region IV
Martin Eversdijk, Vice President Region V
Ted Silenieks, Vice President Region VI
Norman Reeves, Secretary /Treasurer
Jeffrey Scozzafava, Sergeant at Arms
Stuart James, Historian
10:05AM
President Laturnus called the meeting to order. President Laturnus requested a motion to approve
the 2014 meeting minutes published in the Journal and also available at the 2015 meeting. Todd
Thorne moved that the minutes be approved and Celestina Rossi seconded the motion. The motion
was approved.
President Laturnus requested a vote by the membership to approve the nomination of Dr. Michael
Taylor to Distinguished Member. The voting members approved the nomination.
A motion for advancement from applicant to provisional members was made by Todd Thorne and
seconded by Toby Wolson. The motion was approved. A motion for those members who made
application from provisional to full member was made by Todd Thorne and seconded by Toby
Wolson. The motion was approved. President Laturnus requested a motion to accept the Treasurer’s
report. Todd Thorne mad the motion and Colin Hoare seconded it.
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President Laturnus discussed the Travel Grant, the Dan Rahn Grant and the 2015 European
conference in Rome, Italy.
Vice President Don Scheussler, Region 1, Don indicated that he reviewed 19 applications.
Jeff Scozzafava, Sergeant at Arms, had nothing to report and a description of his duties of
maintaining order at the meetings was described.
Vice President Ted Silenieks, Region 6 will be called Oceanic ASEAN region. Ted
discussed the ANZFSS meeting and made a call for abstracts. Ted processed 9 new member
applications and the region currently has 41 members.
Vice President Gord Lefebvre, Region 4, 60 applicants for membership were processed, 6 for
full membership.
Martin Eversdijk’s region 5 reported the success of the 2015 European Conference with
approximately 180 people attending. Martin conveyed there is active training throughout the
region.
Vice President DeWayne Morris, Region 3 discussed the 2015 Meeting in Fort Worth Texas.
DeWayne processed 27 new member applications and requests for promotion.
Vice President Richard Tewes, Region 2, processed 14 new member applications during the
year. Richard discussed the 2016 Annual IABPA Conference to be held in Salt Lake City.
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Membership Committee
Chairman Norm Reeves reported that approximately 150 memberships were processed by the
volunteer membership committee consisting of the Vice Presidents of each region and the Chairman.
Gord Lefebre had the most applications to process and it was appreciated that he did that in a timely
fashion. There are approximately 800 people in the organization. An online application is now
available at the website which helps to enable the VPs to easily read the material on the application.
Gord had a lot of input in the process along with Joe Slemko, the Webmaster.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Norm Reeves reported that total income and expenses for 2015, as of
September. The net worth of the IABPA is $194,000. An explanation of the meaning of Non Profit
as it relates to the IRS classification and the need to in fact make a profit to stay viable as any
business as explained. The Dan Rahn and Travel grant were funded this year and two board
members travel and lodging were funded to the European Conference in Rome. Funding for two
Board members for the Fort Worth conference for transportation and lodging was paid. The Dan
Rahn Grant’s participant’s lodging was also paid.
Historian/Publication Committee
Chairman Stuart James discussed the IABPA Journal and the need for articles and photographs for
publication. Older Journals are available on the member’s area of the website. The 2015
Conference abstracts will be published in the December Journal. There will be three issues in 2015
due to the lack of articles submitted for publication.
Education Committee
Chairperson Erin Simms stated the committee has been reviewing all basic and advanced courses
from prior years and current submissions for approval. The committee is trying to compile a list of
agencies and instructors doing 40-hour classes. The committee has had some confusion regarding
IABPA and SWGSTAIN guidelines. 74 to be evaluated, 46 were evaluated and 16 were not
approved for various reasons. 36 courses have been completed and meet requirements. Toby
Wolson discussed course content versus instructors. Dan Christman discussed the 16 courses not
approved currently but the course was approved previously. Gord Lefebvre discussed holding the
applicant until the instructor is contacted and course content is reviewed.
Certification Committee
Chairman Don Schuessler reported that the IABPA agreed to collaborate with IAI and their
certification committee. Our concerns were addressed and IAI indicated they too had identified
similar issues and they were being addressed. There have been discussions about a two-tier system
of certification. An apprentice level was suggested.
Ethics Committee
Chairman Richard Tewes indicated there have been no complaints. Tewes suggested we must
police ourselves. LeeAnn Singley and Toby Wolson discussed the liabilities of making complaints
concerning a member. Ken Martin discussed IAI’s approach to ethical complaints and liabilities and
offered advice to the IABPA as a result of their experiences.
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Webmaster Report
An online registration form was developed and is available. 927 people have registered on the
website. 31 registrations are from other countries. A search is available to members with a
demographic function. The election last year was disappointing.
Dan Rahn Grant
Chairperson Lynne Herold discussed there was a belief that the grant had to go to a student and
that is why some did not apply. This is not true, anyone may apply. After a discussion about
adjusting the dates for application, she and the board made an adjustment for the 2015 award. A
review of the grant’s guidelines will be made to improve the timelines and costs. Brian Yamashita
and Kacper Choromanski discussed time zones in the Australian and European regions.
Translation Committee
Chairman Philippe Esperanca discussed there was no new translations and is awaiting translations
from Scandinavia. Translators are needed from Arabic and Asian countries. Currently there is only
Chinese and Koran.
SWGSTAIN Committee
Chairman Jeff Scozzafava indicated that there were no SWG documents to review and that
SWGSTAIN in its current state is being absorbed by government agencies such as NIST.
By-Laws Committee - Travel Award
Mark Reynolds is evaluating the bylaws. The immediate past president is being eliminated and
tenure for chairs of committees is being addressed. A disconnect between the bylaws and the ethics
guidelines is being evaluated. A comprehensive review is being made and it is anticipated that
updates may be posted on the website for members to review.
Mark Reynolds also discussed his participation in the Travel Award this year to Prague, 7th
European Forensic Sciences Conference. Out of 75 abstracts only 5 were bloodstain pattern
analysis. 4 were from Australia and New Zealand. Mark Reynolds discussed the research of airflow
and its effect on blood droplets.
Nominations
President Laturnus put forth the Executive Board’s nomination committee recommendations with
encouragement of other nominations being put forth from the members.
Jeffery Scozzafava and Ted Silenieks are offered as President.
Christina Gonzales VP Region1
Richard Tewes VP Region 2
DeWayne Morris VP Region 3
Gord Lefebvre VP Region 4
Martin Eversdijk VP Region 5
Janette Psaroudis VP Region 6
Norm Reeves Secretary
Norm Reeves Treasurer
Celestina Rossi Sergeant at Arms
Stuart James Historian
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Pat Laturnus made a call to the floor for any other nominations to these positions. No addition
nominations were made. Johnnie Aycock moved the nominations be closed seconded by Phillippe
Esperanca. Motion approved.
Old Business
Toby Wolson discussed the Annual IABPA meeting dates and conflicts regarding a Jewish
religious event. A discussion followed regarding meeting dates and conflicts with other events by
the membership. LeeAnn Singley discussed regarding feasibility of meetings in Canada. Cost
factors were discussed. Andy Gradowski discussed education credits that may not be available at a
Canadian conference for US participants.
New Business
Grif Griffin inquired regarding the 2017 IABPA annual meeting location. No information was
available at this time. Martin Eversdijk indicated the 2017 European IABPA meeting would be held
in Warsaw Poland.
Adjournment: 11:56AM
Paul Kish made a motion to close the business meeting. Seconded by Sue Ann Derkach. The
motion was approved.
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Michael Taylor Recipient of IAPBA Distinguished Member Award
Dr. Michael Taylor, PhD
Dr. Michael Taylor, Science Leader at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR)
in Christchurch, New Zealand is the 15th recipient of the IABPA Distinguished Member Award. Dr.
Taylor has done much to advance the Bloodstain Pattern Analysis discipline through casework,
training and research. Michael is a long term member of the IABPA and is committed towards
excellence in BPA. He was a member of the SWGSTAIN Research Subcommittee for five years
and between 2006 and 2009 he was a member of the Australian National Institute of Forensic
Science (NIFS) BPA Education and Training Subcommittee. This committee was responsible for
drafting and implementing the training levels for the Australian and New Zealand BPA program.
Michael is well known as the co-developer with Mark Jermy of the Fluid Dynamics of Bloodstain
Pattern Formation training course which has been taught around the globe and regarded by those
who have completed this course as essential in understanding mechanisms that create blood droplets,
their flight paths and bloodstain formation. He pioneered the use of high speed photography to
critically analyze and understand blood droplets in flight and subsequent bloodstain formation. He
has undertaken collaborative research with the likes of Paul Kish, Terry Laber, Bart Epstein and
Kevin Winer. He has conducted (and continues to conduct0 research into back spatter formation and
has been investigating the influence of contextual bias and the reliability of bloodstain pattern
analysis.
In more recent times he has turned to sharing his knowledge, overseeing many Honours and PhD
students conducting valuable research into the discipline. He has pioneered BPA education and
training in New Zealand, having set up the ESR Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Resource and Learning
Centre Website. Michael represents excellence that practitioners in the discipline, in particular
Region 6 and New Zealand, aspire to. His work has gone a long way into underpinning the science
of bloodstain pattern analysis.
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The ANZFSS 23rd ANZFSS International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences
Together InForming Justice
Tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa
Greetings and hello to you all
rd
The 2016 ANZFSS 23 International Symposium on the Forensic Sciences will be held in
Auckland, New Zealand, 18th to 23rd September. This Symposium will bring together practitioners,
experts and students from all forensic science disciplines, law enforcement and the judiciary to
explore key aspects of the theme, Together InForming Justice. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis will
again feature and as the IABPA Vice President for Region 6, I invite you to attend. It will be
another great Symposium, and planning is well underway. In addition to being a world leader in
many areas of forensic science and forensic science research, NZ is a top international tourist
destination, famous for its natural beauty, indigenous Maori people and diverse Polynesian culture.
Most recently, home to Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit, NZ is a tourist destination in itself. Take
the opportunity to explore, be entranced and fall in love with this beautiful country.
“The Maori warrior is challenging you
On behalf of his people, our people
To come to his country, our country
To take up the challenge
To accept our hospitality
And to be welcomed
On behalf of ANZFSS
The President has accepted the challenge
Officially bringing the Symposium to Aotearoa”
Go to the website www.anzfss2016.org to register your interest!
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Recent BPA Related Articles in the Scientific Literature
Radford, G.E., Taylor, M.C., Kieser, J.A., Waddell, J.N., Walsh, A.J., Schofield, J.C., Das, R., and
Chakravorty, E., Simulating Backspatter of Blood from Cranial Gunshot Wounds Using Pig Models.
International Journal of Legal Medicine, 2015 July, Online.
Petretei, D. and Angyal, M., Recovering Bloody Fingerprints from Skin, Journal of Forensic
Identification, 65 (5), 2015
Organizational Notices
Moving Soon?
All changes of mailing address need to be supplied to our Secretary Norman Reeves and webmaster Joe
Slemko. E-mail your new address to Secretary Norman Reeves at: [email protected] and to webmaster
Joe Slemko at [email protected].
Membership Applications / Request for Promotion
Applications for membership as well as for promotion are available on the IABPA website:
IABPA Website: http://www.iabpa.org
The fees for application of membership and yearly dues are $40.00 US each. If you have not received a dues
invoice for 2016 please contact Norman Reeves at [email protected]. Also, apparently, non US credit cards
are charging a fee above and beyond the $ 40.00 membership/application fee. Your credit card is charged only
$40.00 US by the IABPA. Any additional fees are imposed by the credit card companies.
IABPA now accepts the following credit cards:
Discover MasterCard
American Express Visa
31
Training Opportunities
April 4-8, 2016
Basic Bloodstain Analysis Course
(40 hours – 5 days)
Loci Forensics B.V.
Products – Training – Consulting
Flierveld 59
2151 LE Nieuw-Vennep
The Netherlands
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lociforensics.nl
Fax: +31(0)20-8907749
May 16-20, 2016
Advanced Bloodstain Analysis Course
Loci Forensics B.V.
Flierveld 59
The Netherlands
Fax: +31(0)20-8907749
June 6-10, 2016
Basic Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Course
(German)
Blutspureninstitut
Obergasse 20
61250 Usingen
Germany
Instructor: Dr. Silke Brodbeck, MD
Tel: +49-170-84 84248
Fax: +49-6081-14879
32
June 20-24, 2016
Visualization of Latent Bloodstain Course
Loci Forensics B.V.
Flierveld 59
The Netherlands
Fax: +31(0)20-8907749
June 20-24, 2016
Advanced Pattern Analysis Course
(English)
Blutspureninstitut
Obergasse 20
61250 Usingen
Germany
Tel: +49-170-84 84248
Fax: +49-6081-14879
September 19-23, 2016
(English)
Blutspureninstitut
Obergasse 20
61250 Usingen
Germany
Tel: +49-170-84 84248
Fax: +49-6081-14879
October 10-14, 2016
(English)
Blutspureninstitut
Obergasse 20
61250 Usingen
Germany
Tel: +49-170-84 84248
Fax: +49-6081-14879
33
October 24-28, 2016
(German)
Blutspureninstitut
Obergasse 20
61250 Usingen
Germany
Tel: +49-170-84 84248
Fax: +49-6081-14879
November 28-December 2, 2016
(German)
Blutspureninstitut
Obergasse 20
61250 Usingen
Germany
Tel: +49-170-84 84248
Fax: +49-6081-14879
Articles and training announcements for the March 2016 issue of the Journal of Bloodstain
Pattern Analysis must be received before February 15th, 2016
34
Editor’s Corner
As you can see by the high quality and diversity of the presentations, and workshops given at the
IABPA conference in Fort Worth, Texas that it was an excellent conference. It was well attended
and demonstrated the fine effort and preparation of Cele Rossi and DeWayne Morris. The
conference abstracts in this issue of the Journal speak for themselves.
A highpoint of the conference for me was the presentation of the Distinguished Member Award to
Dr. Michael Taylor. I have always been appreciative of his continued research and contributions
to our discipline and he is very deserving of this recognition. I have also enjoyed his
conversations throughout the years and have learned a lot from him.
Pat Laturnus will complete his three year tenure as our President at the end of 2015. I commend
him for doing a great job guiding the IABPA and being a fine spokesman for the IABPA nationally
and internationally.
I encourage the members of our organization to vote online for our next President and Board
members for 2016. The deadline for voting is December 31,2015.
Stuart H. James
Editor
[email protected]
35
Publication Committee
Associate Editors
Barton P. Epstein
Paul E. Kish
Daniel Mabel
Jeremy Morris
Jon J. Nordby
Joe Slemko
Celestina Rossi
Jeffrey Scozzafava
T. Paulette Sutton
Past Editors of the IABPA News/Journal of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
Anita Y. Wonder
Norman Reeves
David Rimer
Toby L. Wolson
Paul E. Kish
Stuart H. James
1984-1985
1984-1989
1990-1996
1997-2000
2001-2003
2004-present
Past Presidents of the IABPA
V. Thomas Bevel
Charles Edel
Warren R. Darby
Rod D. Englert
Edward Podworny
Tom J. Griffin
Toby L. Wolson, M.S.
Daniel V. Christman
Phyllis T. Rollan
Daniel Rahn
Bill Basso
LeeAnn Singley
Iris Dalley
Todd A. Thorne
1983-1984
1985-1987
1988
1989-1990
1991-1992
1993-1994
1995-1996
1997-1998
1999-2000
2001-2002
2002-2006
2007-2008
2009-2010
2011-2012
The Journal of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis published quarterly in March, June, September, and December.  2015.
The International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part
without written permission of the Editor and Author(s) is prohibited.
36

December 2015 - International Association of Bloodstain Pattern

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