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T e Journal of theA
ssoc
iatio
n for C
rime Scene Reconstruction
Volume 18 Issue 2Spring2012
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)
This Journal is a publication of the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction (ACSR). ACSR is an international association of criminalists and forensic profes-sionals dedicated to the advancement of forensic science and crime scene recon-struction.
Copyright for this Journal is retained by ACSR and the authors for their individual articles. Except where otherwise marked, this Journal is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivatives License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/) which permits unrestricted noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction, provided the original work is properly cited and not changed in any way.
Individual Open Access articles and all abstracts are available for public download at www.acsr.org. Complete issues of the Journal are available in the Members Only section of the website.
The opinions expressed in this Journal do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Association, the Board of Directors, the Editorial Review Board, or the Editor.
Excell
ence Education
Dedication
Assoc
iation
for
Crime Scene
Reconstruction
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) www.acsr.org
ContentsPresident’s Message i
ACSR Board of Directors ii
ACSR Officers & Editorial Staff iii
ACSR Committees iv
Original Articles
Identification of a Second Suspect via Stomach Contents at Autopsy 13Lisa Pope
2012 Conference Abstracts
What Not to Wear: Polishing Your Expert Witness Skills AJess Gabel
A Novel Variation of Photogrammetry to Collect Crime Scene Measurements Quickly AEdward Robinson & Theo Kouts
Leaving No Doubt—3D Documentation and Analysis in Prosecution of Sheriff Deputy’s Killer BCraig T. Fries
Who Held the Gun? Decipherment of Suicide-Homicide Case Using the PDT (Ferrotrace Field Test Kit) BAmi Leifer
Angle of Impact Determination From Bullet Holes in Crime Scene Examination BKenton S. Wong
Evaluation of Plumbtesmo and Cuprotesmo Test Paper for Sensitivity to Lead and Copper Residues CKenton S. Wong
Investigating and Reconstructing a No-body Homicide CJonathyn W. Priest
The Case of the Unfortunate Fire: Evidence Protecting Evidence in a Quadruple Homicide – Arson is not always your “free get-out-jail card” DKim Duddy & Kathy Geil
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)
ContentsFrom Tapes to Photons: Number one new tool in my 50 years DDale Nute
The Angle of Torture DDianne Burns
An Assault at West Point—A Historical Account of an Early Incident of Crime Scene Staging EDoug Ridolfi
I shot the Sheriff, but… ELawrence Renner
Bringing the Complex Crime Scene into the Courtroom: Using Animation and Still Illustrations to Simplify Testimony in Criminal and Civil Litigation ERod Englert
Terminal Ballistics: Bullet Performance in Tissue Simulant FMatthew Noedel
Bloodstain Pattern (Revised) Taxonomy for Pattern or Stain Identification FRoss M. Gardner & Tom J. Griffin
Fundamentals of 3-D laser scanning for Crime Scene Reconstruction FTony Grissim
2013 Conference
ACSR Library Requests
ACSR Research Grants
A Call for Research Ideas
Training Opportunities
Submission Guidelines
Membership Application
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) i www.acsr.org
President’s Message
Welcome to the spring edition of the 2012 ACSR Journal. I would like to begin my mes-sage by thanking 2012 Conference Chair Bruce Wiley for his extraordinary handling of this year’s conference, which was a great success having an eclectic array of courses and workshops for all in attendance. The conference site venue was an outstanding choice and offered all a superior experience. Bruce worked tirelessly while creating an exceptional envi-ronment for those attending the conference. I also wish to acknowledge the efforts of past President Stephen DeFrance. During his tenure, Stephen oversaw a complete revamping of the Association’s By-Laws and website, assembled special committees for the creation of crime scene and shooting incident reconstruction standardized definitions, and continued his duties as journal editor. Stephen truly performed amazingly throughout his presidency and he deserves the thanks of the entire membership. I also cannot mention the website without acknowledging the outstanding efforts of Karen Green in creating our very profes-sional web page. Looking forward into 2012, I would like to encourage each ACSR member to reflect upon our Association’s history and goals. ACSR was born from the vision of a small group of dedicated individuals who wanted to provide an environment for like background pro-fessionals to further investigative ideas, research, and improve the discipline of crime scene reconstruction. Each president of the Association, since its founding more than two decades ago, has built on its distinguished traditions and introduced new initiatives and new visions. From the first president, Tom Bevel, working with the original charter members, the Association inherited its identity as a venerable investigation organization dedicated to improving the quality of education and analysis through careful studies and strategic communications. The work we are doing today takes the idea of continuing education, research, and investigation to the next level. We are forming extensive networks using social media and linking academic research, quantifiable practice, and practical expertise with new arrange-ments for disciplined inquiry where the work of research and practice join in a more dy-namic and interactive fashion. This is our Association and as such comes with responsibility. We are responsible for each other and our continued development. We must help others grow through mentor-ship and maintain our vision of providing a future for our new members. In closing I want to mention that Conference Chair Ross Gardner is working hard on the 2013 Conference in Atlanta, GA. Mark the dates of February 5 – 7, 2013 and plan to attend. If you have ideas for a presentation, workshop, or Last Piece Society you can contact Ross at [email protected].
Jonathyn W. Priest
Excell
ence Education
Dedication
Assoc
iation
for
Crime Scene
Reconstruction
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)ii
Bevel, Gardner & Associates, Inc.5960 W. Milan PlaceDenver, CO 80235 [email protected]
Federal Bureau of Investigation8000 E. 36th AvenueDenver, CO 80238 [email protected]
Noedel Scientific13002 151st Street EPuyallup, WA 98374 [email protected]
Kansas Bureau of Investigation625 WashingtonGreat Bend, KS 67530 USA 620-792-4353 [email protected]
Naval Criminal Investigative ServicePO Box 58Jacksonville, FL 32212 [email protected]
Naval Criminal Investigative ServiceForensic Sciences Division2713 Mitscher Road SW, Bldg #168, Suite 200Anacostia, DC 20373 [email protected]
Forensic Analytical Sciences, Inc.3777 Depot Road, Suite 403Hayward, CA 94545-2761 [email protected]
Green Forensics, Inc.409 East PioneerPuyallup, WA 98372(253) [email protected]
George Washington UniversitySomers Hall, L-06 2100 Foxhall Rd NWWashington, DC 20007(202)[email protected]
Edward RobinsonBoard Member
Charles S. DeFranceChairman
of the Board
Cory LathamTreasurer
Matthew NoedelPresident-Elect
Jonathyn Priest President
Elizabeth ToomerBoard member
Tom BradySecretary
Kenton WongBoard Member
ACSR Board of Directors
Karen GreenBoard Member
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) iii www.acsr.org
HistorianTom Bevel
Tom Adair
Tom “Grif” Griffin
Karen Green
Charles S. DeFrance
Tom Adair
Tom Bevel
Iris Dalley
Ross M. Gardner
Tom “Grif” Griffin
Leah Innocci
Michael Maloney
Matthew Noedel
Jonathyn Priest
Carlo J. Rosati
ACSR Officers & Editorial Staff
Sergeant-at-Arms
Librarian
Webmaster
Editor
Editorial Review Board
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)iv
ACSR Committees
Amy Jagmin, ChairWashington State Patrol Crime Lab -Seattle2203 Airport Way South, Suite 250Seattle, WA 98134 USA206-262-6067 [email protected]
Ross Gardner, [email protected]
Malcolm [email protected]
Tom Bevel, [email protected]
Ross Gardner, [email protected]
Matthew Noedel, [email protected]
Tom Bevel, [email protected]
Iris [email protected]
Cory [email protected]
MembershipCommittee
CSR Standardization Committee
EthicsCommittee
CSR CertificationCommittee
Shooting Reconstruction Standardization
Committee
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) www.acsr.org13
Article Original Article
Identification of a Second Suspect via Stomach Contents at Autopsy
Article
Lisa PopeForensic Analyst, Eugene Police Department, Forensic Evidence Unit,
Eugene, Oregon, USA
IntroductionAttention to detail plays an important role in crime scene reconstruction. Although long hours and aching bodies are usually synonymous with working major crime scenes, crime scene analysts must remain alert and attentive until their reconstruction, processing, and analysis is complete. This case study discusses how a nearly undigested french fry located within the stomach contents of a deceased robbery suspect lead to the identification of his accomplice through video surveillance at a local fast food restaurant.
The composition of the meal, the volume of the meal, as well as the individual foodstuffs
that comprise the meal have an affect on digestion rate. Less dense and less fibrous foods may begin to digest almost immediately; where more dense and fibrous foods take longer to break down. The volume of the foodstuffs ingested and how well they are broken apart prior to ingestion also affect digestion time. The physical breakdown of the foodstuffs is accomplished through mastication (chewing), the more thorough the mastication process, the more rapid the digestion. The typical gastric transit time of an “average” meal is estimated around two to three hours [1, 2].
Original Article
A case report describing the examination of stomach contents at the autopsy of a robber, who was shot and killed during the commission of his crime, which led to the identification of the second and outstanding robber. During autopsy, digested stomach contents gave the attending forensic analyst information regarding a possible location of two robbery suspects prior to committing their crime. This information led the analyst to a Wendy’s fast food restaurant near the vicinity of the crime and video analysis from the restaurant’s surveillance system provided investigators with the face of a known criminal they could identify.
Keywords: Autopsy, stomach contents, gastric contents, digestion rate, crime scene reconstruction, forensic science
AbstrAct
Received: Revised:Accepted:
Article informAtion
05 March 201203 April 201201 May 2012
Citation: Pope L. Identification of a Second Suspect via Stomach Contents at Autopsy. J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2);13-15.
Author Contact:[email protected]
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Case BackgroundOn November 24, 2010 at 10:00pm in Eugene, Oregon, two armed subjects held up a Dutch Brothers coffee kiosk. Only one of the subjects approached the barista. The known subject was armed when he demanded and received money from the barista. He then demanded the barista to turn around, place his hands on the back of his head, and close his eyes. The barista, fearing for his life, drew his own firearm, resulting in an exchange of gun fire and the death of the known suspect. As the barista was unarming the downed and deceased suspect, a second subject appeared, causing an additional exchange of gun fire. According to the barista, this second outstanding subject fled the scene on foot.
Crime scene analysts for the Eugene Police Department Forensic Evidence Unit were assigned to process and reconstruct this crime scene. Based on the evidence at the scene and the barista’s statements, the second outstanding subject quickly became the main focus of the investigation.
Case Information and InvestigationThe deceased subject was located on the back porch of the Dutch Brothers kiosk, with his feet lying just inside the open door frame. Lifesaving attempts had been made by responding medics; therefore the body had been moved prior to the crime scene analysts’ arrival. The subject was wearing dark clothing which included multiple layers of shirts and jackets, and a brimmed stocking cap which had a possible bullet hole through the brim. A hood of one of the outer jackets was pulled up over the brimmed stocking cap. The subject was also wearing gloves, a backpack, and a handkerchief around his neck. He had a holster attached to his belt and hidden under the front part of his pants.
The subject’s shirts were cut during lifesaving attempts by responding medics. There was at least one bullet wound to his chest. The subject’s eyes were open, and there was red brown staining on his shirt, gloved right hand, and on the paper money lying around and near his left and right hands. There was also purged fluid and particulate matter around the subject’s nose and mouth.
Fired bullets and bullet holes were located inside the kiosk and on the back porch next to the body. The bullet holes inside the kiosk were most likely from exchange of gunfire between the barista and the deceased subject. When the barista realized a second subject was present, he began to raise his weapon while firing. Two 9mm Luger and nine .40 caliber S&W cartridge cases were recovered from inside the kiosk and the back porch. Forensic analysts discovered that the surveillance system at the coffee stand had not been working for quite some time and other nearby surveillance cameras did not have footage that showed the incident.
The lead crime scene analyst attended the autopsy of the deceased the following day. The medical examiner was to determine the six bullet paths through the body and recover any bullet or other evidence inside the body.
Examining gastric contents at autopsy can provide valuable information. A medical examiner can estimate the time of death, and time of last meal, based on the appearance of the digesting food.
During this particular autopsy, examination of the stomach contents by the medical examiner revealed pieces of ground beef, pieces of cheese, and half inch long pieces of bacon. The medical examiner identified these stomach contents as a bacon cheeseburger. He also noticed that the meal appeared to contain partially digested french fries. It was noted by the forensic analyst that one of the french fries was fairly undigested and appeared nearly whole, and asked to take a closer look. At the request of the forensic analyst, the medical examiner estimated the food was most likely consumed within an hour of the robbery. Upon close examination, the forensic analyst realized the partially digested fry appeared to be consistent with Wendy’s Restaurant fast food french fries. She realized it was consistent with a Wendy’s french fry because at that time they were thicker than the other fast food french fries in the vicinity of the crime scene. The forensic analyst knew there were fast food restaurants within city blocks of the crime scene and the one nearest the Dutch Brothers kiosk was a Wendy’s Restaurant.
The forensic analyst immediately notified detectives and recommended that they contact the Wendy’s regarding surveillance footage. Detectives found that the footage from the
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) www.acsr.org15
restaurant clearly contained images of both robbery suspects. The footage showed the first suspect trying on his mask, which was a handkerchief around his neck that he was using to cover his face. This footage was used to identify his accomplice and led to the second subject’s arrest.
ConclusionThis case is a good example of why attention to detail and placing evidence in context is an important quality of a crime scene analyst. Though many may have felt that the partially digested stomach contents of a subject had little probative value, by associating this with the known facts of the case, the area in which the crime was committed and the scene as a whole, the forensic analyst was able to associate it to a specific Wendy’s restaurant product.
In this case, a bacon cheeseburger and fries were located in the stomach contents of the deceased. Furthermore, the death was sudden and unexpected versus prolonged and stressful, therefore an undigested french fry located inside the gastric contents of the deceased was consistent with a consumption time within an hour prior to death [1]. This information aided
in the development of logical investigative leads and direction by reconstructing the likely sequence of events made by the perpetrators in preparation for committing the crime. This resulted in valuable video evidence showing the identity of the second outstanding suspect being retrieved by law enforcement.
Using the totality of information and the crime scene analyst’s forensic expertise, a reconstruction of events can be completed, improving the chances of solving crimes and successfully prosecuting criminals.
AcknowledgementsThe author would like to thank Dr. Dan Davis, the Medical Examiner for the Eugene Medical Examiner’s Office, and Jason Petersen, the Forensic Laboratory Supervisor of the Eugene Police Department.
References[1] Saukko P, Knight B. Knight’s Forensic Pathology. 3rd ed. New York (NY): Oxford University Press; 2004.
[2] DiMaio V, DiMaio, D. Forensic Pathology. 2nd ed. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press; 2001.
Copyright: © 2012 Lisa Pope. Copyright for this article is retained by the author, with publication rights granted to the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction. This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivatives License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/) which permits unrestricted noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction, provided the original work is properly cited and not changed in any way.
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J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix A www.acsr.org
Article Original Article Article 2012 Conference
21st Annual International Training ConferenceMonterey, CaliforniaFebruary 8-10, 2012
In February 2012 the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction hosted its Annual International Training Conference in Monterey, California. Attendees came from across the globe with some attendees coming from as far away as Israel. The following are the abstracts for all lectures and workshops from the 2012 conference.
Presentations
What Not to Wear: Polishing Your Expert Witness SkillsJess Gabel, Georgia State University College of Law
Abstract: This program was intended to help examiners in their role as expert witnesses. It focused on the relationship between law and science with respect to forensic evidence, and develops the examiners’ proficiency for testifying about their practice and results in a courtroom. The course also addressed the relationship between experts and the judge, the lawyers, and juries and discussed best practices for managing all three relationships.
The program also promoted professionalism and ethics from the crime scene to the forensic laboratory to the courtroom. The course addressed these issues on a formal and informal level and included a special segment on professional responsibility. In particular, the program will covered relevant case law that impacts expert witnesses (Brady, Melendez-Diaz, Bullcoming); best practices in dealing with prosecution and defense counsel; un-derstand pre-trial motions to exclude evidence and other mechanisms of discovery; use of e-mails, bench notes, and other information sharing obligations in discovery; appreciate the challenges of digital discovery. It also will include discussion on the importance of “chain of custody” and its usefulness in the legal process, persuasiveness and relatability to a jury, and managing a role as a “dueling expert.” Finally, this program focused on the impact of the National Research Council report: Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward (“NRC Report”), and how to best handle questions about it in trial and addresses the significance of proficiency testing, error rates, and widely used methodologies to ensure the reliability of scientific evidence.
A Novel Variation of Photogrammetry to Collect Crime Scene Measurements Quickly Edward Robinson & Theo Kouts, George Washington University
Abstract: Last year, we gave a presentation on both the Perspective Grid Photogrammetry and Rhino Photogrammetry techniques. A new technique called 3-Point Photogrammetry combines the best of these two techniques, making the application and set-up simpler with-out compromising accuracy. Scenes less than 30 feet in size (the majority of crime scenes)
2012 Conference Abstracts
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix B
can quickly be measured without tape measures. Capture a few well-chosen photographs, then grab the evidence and go. This technique is perfect in war zones or when bad weather threatens outdoor evidence. It is also perfect whenever there are critical time constraints limiting the time that can be spent at the scene.
Leaving No Doubt—3D Documentation and Analysis in Prosecution of Sheriff Deputy’s KillerCraig T. Fries, Precision Simulations, Inc.
Abstract: Craig’s presentation highlighted how he recently used 3D laser scanning, 3D modeling, and cutting-edge audio analysis techniques to help the Yolo County District At-torney procure a guilty verdict with special circumstances for Marco Topete for murdering Deputy Tony Diaz in 2008.
Who Held the Gun? Decipherment of Suicide-Homicide Case Using the PDT (Ferrotrace Field Test Kit)Ami Leifer, Serious Crime Scene Mobile Lab, Division of Identification & Foren-sics Sciences, Israel Police
Abstract: In many police investigations of shootings the question arises whether a specific suspect had handled a particular weapon. In some cases the answer to that question can be instrumental in determining the direction of the entire investigation.
The potential of the PDT field test has been reported. The test is based upon a chemical reaction between iron ions and the reagent, PDT. The result can be seen by the appearance of a violet-magenta stain, which in many cases has the shape of the metallic parts of the weapon. The types of incidents in which this test can be helpful are numerous and varied. The most common type of case is suspected suicide. In other shooting incidents in which a potential suspect disassociates himself from the scene of crime and contends, for example, that he did not hold the weapon, PDT can disprove his statement. In cases of murder-suicide in which it is uncertain who is the victim and who committed suicide, a PDT test can help determine which of the two did not handle the weapon.
This presentation illustrated a very interesting suicide-homicide casework of the Israel Police. Two dead bodies of a woman, famous model, and her boyfriend, a famous hair-dresser, were found on the rug in the combined living room/dining area. PDT played an important role in determining the course of events in this interesting case.
Angle of Impact Determination From Bullet Holes in Crime Scene ExaminationKenton S. Wong, BS, MA, D-ABC, Forensic Analytical Sciences, Inc., Hayward, CA, USA
Abstract: The shape of a bullet hole (which can range from a circular hole for perpendicu-lar shots to varying elliptical shapes for bullet holes produced as a result of being fired at
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix C www.acsr.org
the target from an angle for non-tumbling bullets) can be utilized to determine the angle of impact of the bullet into virtually flat surfaces such as walls, wood, and vehicle sheet metal commonly found at a crime scenes. This is by virtue of the fact that the circular cross-sec-tion of a cylindrical projectile such as the nose of a bullet approximates the spherical shape of a drop in flight as it impacts a surface. As such, the approximate angle of impact from bullet holes commonly observed in crime scenes can oftentimes be determined by utiliz-ing the same trigonometric relationship between the major and minor axis of the observed bullet hole as originally concluded by Balthazard for use in determining the angle of impact of a blood droplet.
Evaluation of Plumbtesmo and Cuprotesmo Test Paper for Sensitivity to Lead and Copper ResiduesKenton S. Wong, BS, MA, D-ABC, Forensic Analytical Sciences, Inc., Hayward, CA, USA
Abstract: The sodium rhodizonate test and dithiooxamide (DTO) test are currently used to indicate possible bullet holes and bullet impact strike marks through the detection of lead and copper, respectively, on objects. Plumbtesmo was designed for the detection of lead deposits in motor vehicle tailpipes to determine whether a vehicle with a catalytic con-verter has recently been erroneously or intentionally operated on leaded fuel. Cuprotesmo was designed for the detection of copper and copper compounds in surfaces, ashes, solu-tions, and perhaps in plumbing applications. However, Plumbtesmo and Cuprotesmo may be useful for the detection of lead and/or copper residues on objects at crime scenes as well as within the laboratory. The effectiveness of these four different testing techniques on different media was compared after firing bullets into white cotton fabric, denim, leather, sheetrock, plywood, smooth concrete, rough concrete, asphalt, and a car door at a distance of one yard. The specificity of Plumbtesmo and Cuprotesmo test paper for lead and copper, respectively, was evaluated against a variety of 34 different metals from A-Z (aluminum to zirconium). (Published in the AFTE Journal, Vol. 42, Number 1, Winter 2010, p. 49-55.)
Investigating and Reconstructing a No-body HomicideJonathyn W. Priest
Abstract: When law enforcement responds to a reported death, they immediately focus on the crime scene, visible evidence, the available witnesses, and developing their theory about what occurred. While a complete investigation does not depend on a single characteristic or lone investigative technique, there are certain characteristics and evidence the investigator expects to find at a death scene. Occasionally, the investigator becomes involved in a case where the basics of a death scene investigation are not present. When the body is missing, this becomes one of those cases. Investigators can ill afford to ignore or neglect investiga-tive procedures, available evidence, or information from witnesses when conducting a no-body death investigation. Although not impossible to resolve, crime scenes missing the key elements of a typical death investigation take time to conclude. The investigator must use their experience and tenacity, and make use of those experts who can assist in putting to puzzle together.
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix D
The Case of the Unfortunate Fire: Evidence Protecting Evidence in a Quadruple Homicide – Arson is not always your “free get-out-jail card” Kim Duddy, WSPCLD (retired) & Kathy Geil, WSPCLD
Abstract: In July of 2006, a lakeside home located in Kirkland, Washington, was the site of a horrific quadruple homicide/arson. As members of the crime scene response team, we were asked to assess the scene to determine if there was any remaining physical evidence not destroyed by the fire and then to process the scene, and collect the evidence. It was dis-cussed how the scene, which involved a multi-agency response, was processed and how the evidence was documented and recovered. The challenges of further evidence documenta-tion and the analysis in the lab were shared. The experiments and experimentation required to be able to complete the bloodstain pattern analysis on structural items and clothing and the event analysis reconstruction were introduced. Some of the trial proceedings and evi-dence challenges were covered. A poster presentation was offered to show in more detail the results and conclusions from the experiments conducted.
From Tapes to Photons: Number one new tool in my 50 yearsDale Nute, Florida State University Panama City
Abstract: We all know our crime scene tasks: detect & document, collect & preserve, inter-pret & report. Each step obviously is based on the one before it, but the bottom line is that until the evidence is located and documented, nothing else can happen.
This presentation will demonstrate the advantages of the 3D laser scanner with coaxial camera to simultaneously document a crime or accident scene both visually and spatially. In other words, a couple one-minute scans will provide a 3D photographic representation of a room or a crash vehicle/vessel that allows you to measure all of the items of interest and the distances among them.
Also important is the reliability of the instrument. Can the courts rely on the results? A comparison of the accuracy of the laser scanner against traditional techniques for docu-menting a scene was presented. One thing that has not changed in 50 years is the concern about cost, so a cost analysis was presented on the range of techniques as well.
The Angle of Torture Dianne Burns, California Department of Justice, Santa Barbara Laboratory
Abstract: From the crime scene through courtroom testimony, this presentation was about a bloodstain pattern reconstruction case I worked. During a severe beating, the angle of impact of the bloodstains on the concrete next to the victim’s body indicated her head (the sole blood source at the scene) was ~24 to 32 inches above the concrete when struck, prompting a torture charge by the Deputy District Attorney that led to a life imprisonment conviction of the perpetrator.
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix E www.acsr.org
An Assault at West Point—A Historical Account of an Early Incident of Crime Scene StagingDoug Ridolfi, Alameda County Sheriff Crime Lab
Abstract: The concept of crime scene staging is not a new phenomenon and was recog-nized as a possible scenario in a well-documented case as early as 1880. This presentation highlighted some of the physical evidence and testimony that suggested to investigators and medical staff at that time that the crime scene in this case was not what it initially appeared to be.
I shot the Sheriff, but…Lawrence Renner
Abstract: A search warrant executed in a small northern Nevada town resulted in one death, four injured, and multiple arrests.
After the FBI arrived and the FBI bomb squad cleared the residence, the Reno Crime Laboratory processed the scene and the adult male resident was charged with two counts of attempted murder on two of the police officers present.
Of the six officers and three residents at the scene, only the chief and the adult male fired guns. The chief’s gun discharged 13 times and the resident’s 3 times.
Additional evidence collected by the defense team was utilized for a reconstruction of the events, a ranking of the players, and the identification of the locations and actions of each player during the various segments of the event. Presentation in court resulted in an immediate dismissal of one of the attempted murder counts and a not guilty verdict from the jury.
Bringing the Complex Crime Scene into the Courtroom: Using Animation and Still Illustrations to Simplify Testimony in Criminal and Civil LitigationRod Englert, Englert Forensic Consultants
Abstract: Demonstrative aides (moving diagrams/illustrative art) in jury trials are, by their very nature, a method to help juries understand what occurred during an event, be it crimi-nal or civil. Sometimes the event involves multiple parties or actions and necessitates more of an explanation of the fact s beyond what photographs, physical evidence, charts, or graphs can do. Development of animation and illustrations help the expert witness better explain the case to the triers of fact.
This presentation showed how to go about reconstruction of several officer-involved shootings and a homicide. Because of the complexity of the events, moving diagrams (ani-mation) of each scene were digitally created representing what actually occurred. The re-creation is based upon facts from reports, photos, and detailed documentation from each scene. The accuracy of the animation is important to withstand the scrutiny of opposition motions to suppress.
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix F
Workshops
Terminal Ballistics: Bullet Performance in Tissue SimulantMatthew Noedel, Noedel Scientific
Abstract: This half-day course examined features associated with terminal ballistics by generating test gunshots into a tissue simulant, like gelatin. Considerations such as com-paring full metal jacket versus hollow point performance, intermediate object influence, and specialty ammunition characteristics were discussed and demonstrated. This course involved both classroom lecture and practical live fire at the range off site from the hotel.
Bloodstain Pattern (Revised) Taxonomy for Pattern or Stain IdentificationRoss M. Gardner & Tom J. “Grif” Griffin
Abstract: One of the key features of the third edition of Bevel and Gardner’s “Bloodstain Pattern Analysis with an Introduction to Crime Scene Reconstruction” was a Bloodstain Classification Taxonomy. This taxonomy uses a “decision map” based the physical char-acteristics of bloodstains and bloodstain patterns to identify them as opposed to the tra-ditional approach grounded in mechanisms. This taxonomy has been a work in progress and it has been revised in the past few months. The workshop began with a presentation of the decision map with the revised taxonomy. The participants then be divided into small groups and each group used the decision map to identify the patterns on the target surfaces posted.
Fundamentals of 3-D laser scanning for Crime Scene ReconstructionTony Grissim
Abstract: Fundamental concepts of 3-D laser scanning including different types of scan-ners, field deployment considerations, what is needed to work with the data, and an exami-nation of the various output options from scan data will be combined with a field exercise that provided the student with a basic understanding of the technology.
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix G www.acsr.org
February 7-10, 2013
2013Conference
2013The 2013 ACSR conference will be held in Atlanta, GA from February 7 to 10, 2013. The conference program is still in development and will involve 3 ½ days of presentations. There are numerous openings for research presentations, case studies, and workshops. There will be three rounds of workshops scheduled, two day-time and one night-time. Tentatively these include: practical application of event analysis, alternate light source utilization, laser trajectory documentation, electro-static dust print lifters, and laser scanning stations with both the Leica and Faro systems. Go to www.acsr.org for conference updates. If you have an interest in presenting a paper, please contact Conference Chair Ross M. Gardner at [email protected] for further information.
www.ACSR.org
Atlanta
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix H
ACSR Library Requests
At the 2011 Annual Training Conference the Board of Directors appointed Tom Adair as the ACSR Librarian. The Librarian is there to assist members in researching topics, specific articles, and study materials for the Crime Scene Reconstruction Certification exam by managing the ACSR Library.
The Librarian is currently maintaining an ever-growing collection of forensic science articles that currently exceeds 2,500 individual articles from a wide variety of sources. Members may request searches of the collection based on a specific topic.
The Librarian is also maintaining two copies of the following texts that have been purchased for loaning to members studying for the International Association for Identification CSR Certification Exam. Members must meet the certification requirements and intend on applying to take the exam within six months of requesting materials. The Association will pay to ship the books to you; however, members will be responsible for costs associated with returning the materials.
CSR Certification Reference Texts
• Bevel, Tom and Gardner, Ross. M. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis: With an Introduction to Crime Scene Reconstruction, 3rd Edition. Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2008.
• Walton, Richard H. Cold Case Homicides: Practical Investigative Techniques. Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2006.
• Haag, Lucien C. Shooting Incident Reconstruction. Amsterdam: Elsevier Academic Press, 2006.
To Make a RequestTo request a copy of an article, articles relating to a topic, or one of the CSR study books please contact Tom Adair at [email protected].
To Make a DonationThe association is always interested in accepting donations of your used books or articles for the benefit of the members. Donations can be made in both electronic and paper formats. Those wishing to make a donation can contact Tom Adair at [email protected] for instructions.
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix I www.acsr.org
ACSR Research Grants
In accordance with Article Three, Section II of the Bylaws of the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction, there is research grant money available for qualified individuals.
Research grant monies up to $500.00 (U.S.), contingent upon available funds, are accessible to all members in good standing including provisional and student members. Grants may also be awarded to non-member students currently enrolled in forensic science or similar programs. The President-Elect shall assign a qualified mentor to provide guidance to non-member students.
CriteriaGrant applicants must be conducting original research in the area of crime scene reconstruction and complete the research within a 12-month period following the grant award. Upon completion of the research, the awarded applicant must submit the completed research for peer review and publication in the Association Journal. If the awarded applicant attends the annual ACSR conference, the awarded applicant must present the research findings to the general membership.
Application ProcedureGrant applicants shall submit a letter (written or email) requesting the grant to the standing President-Elect of ACSR. Letters shall be presented as research proposals and shall detail clearly and systematically the plan of scientific inquiry.
Grant applicants preparing their letters shall offer an objective for the project in the form of a research problem, address the problem’s significance, delineate the scientific methods and procedures they will utilize to answer the research question, present a timetable for the research, and provide an estimate of costs for the research.
Letters should detail current knowledge in a given area, speak to knowledge gaps, if any, and specify the plan for addressing the gaps or furthering the knowledge related to the problem. Grant applicants shall identify the project director or lead investigator as well as the applicant’s organization or institution.
Grant applicants should include in the letter the reasons for choosing standard or nonstandard research methods, provide reviewers with information about potential difficulties related to the research, and present sufficient delineation of the applicant’s understanding of the research.
Grant applications shall be peer reviewed through individuals assembled by the President-Elect. Reviewers shall evaluate each application using a competitive grant process. Based on recommendations from the President-Elect, the Board of Directors shall award grants based upon the strength and relevance of the research.
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix J
Science is often described as a self-correcting body of knowledge. With each question that is answered, we refine our prior theories and our understanding of the natural world increases. With each question answered, we also discover new questions we hadn’t even thought to ask. The quest for knowledge is never ending.
Of course, forensic science shares these same characteristics. This Journal seeks to advance forensic science by publishing original works for the benefit of the entire forensic community.
To aid in this goal, we are asking all of you to consider some of the problems you have seen in your everyday work. Perhaps a troubling dilemma encountered on a real crime scene that you have not had time to fully explore. Maybe a loose end from an old research project you would like to see resolved.
Ideally, we would love to see you pursue research to answer those questions and encourage you to do so. Unfortunately, most of us are already swamped with other duties and often lack the time to invest in our own research ideas. Meanwhile there are those, includ-ing students, who have the time and motivated to conduct research, but lack a good starting point. The Journal would like to begin a project to bring these two factors together. By collecting and posting our collective research ideas to the ACSR membership, we engage everyone in two very important aspects of the advancement of crime scene reconstruction. First, we will all be helping to define where re-search is lacking. Second, by making that information accessible to the entire membership we encourage others to pursue those answers while at the same time focusing our efforts on the most important problems.
Please collect your thoughts and send in those research ideas to the Editor at [email protected]. You can send in something as simple as an unanswered forensic question you believe deserves research to a well thought out research plan you lack the time or resources to complete. The Journal will make those project ideas accessible to the membership and hopefully we can get some answers for everyone.
A Call for Research Ideas
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix K www.acsr.org
July 30-August 3, 2012Crime Scene Reconstruction IUniversity of Missouri-Columbia Police Department, Columbia, MOBevel, Gardner & Associates, www.bevelgardner.com
July 22-28, 2012International Association for Identification (IAI) Annual International Educational ConferencePhoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizonahttp://www.theiai.org/conference/2012/index.php
July 16-20, 2012Death Scene Investigation & Recovery of Human RemainsNorman, OKBevel, Gardner & Associates, www.bevelgardner.com
August 6-10, 2012Crime Scene Reconstruction IIFlower Mound Police Department, Flower Mound, TXBevel, Gardner & Associates, www.bevelgardner.com
August 13-17, 2012Basic/Intermediate Diagramming with CrimeZone SoftwareLakewood, COFactual Diagrams, www.factualdiagrams.com
August 27-31, 2012Fluid Dynamics of Bloodstain Pattern Formation CourseLoci Forensics B.V., The NetherlandsE-mail: [email protected]: http://www.lociforensicproducts.nl/
September 10-14, 2012Basic BPA CourseLoci Forensics B.V., The NetherlandsE-mail: [email protected]: http://www.lociforensicproducts.nl/
September 23-28, 2012NWAFS 40th Anniversary MeetingMissoula, Montanawww.NWAFS.org
Visit www.acsr.org for more training announcements.If you are an ACSR member and would like your training classes announced in the Journal, contact the Editor at [email protected].
TrainingOpportunities
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix L
The Journal of the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction is a peer reviewed forensic journal that will accept original material that relates to crime scene reconstruction or are deemed of interest to the members of the Association. Articles generally fall into one of the following categories:
Original Article: Manuscripts submitted for peer review that provide original information on techniques, methods, or theory of crime scene reconstruction, original research, case studies, or aspects of forensic study as they contribute to reconstruction. Papers should be approximately 1000 words or more in length.
Forensic Workshop: Manuscripts for brief papers submitted for peer review that de-scribe practical methods, equipment tutorials, or practical scene processing tips that relate to forensic study or aspects of crime scene recon-struction. Unlike original articles, Forensic Workshop articles can describe non-original topics that serve an educational role for the membership.
Research/Technical Notes: These are very short articles that document some aspect of research or unusual observation at a crime scene that contributes value to the field. These papers generally involve a topic that is too brief to yield a full-sized article.
Letters: Brief communications regarding previously published work, the business of the association, book reviews, or general informa-tion relating to crime scene reconstruction. These articles are not peer reviewed, but are printed at the discretion of the Editor.
Original material is defined as work that has not been previously published and is not under consid-eration for publication by another publication. Sub-mission of original material to the Journal implies that it is original material and grants publication rights to the Association for Crime Scene Recon-struction (ACSR), if approved.
All manuscripts should include a title, author’s name, abstract of 150 words or less, the main body of the manuscript, and references. The abstract is a brief summary of the key points of the article. Authors are encouraged to also include a list of suggested keywords, however, the final list of keywords is at the discretion of the Editor.
The body of the manuscript should be organized in a logical flow that best communicates the material. For original research this should include a statement of the purpose of the research, hypothesis, materials, procedures, results, and conclusions.
Original research should be described in sufficient detail to allow others to repeat the experiment to verify results. However, peer review does not require actual repetition of the experiment.
Peer Review ProcessPeer review and editorial review of manuscripts is generally completed within three months of submission. The review process involves the submission of a redacted manuscript to at least three peer-reviewers selected by the Editor who are qualified to review the subject matter of the manuscript. The Editor maintains an Editorial Review Board to perform most reviews, but also retains the right to use reviewers who are not on this list for the purpose of avoiding conflicts of interest, seeking specific areas of expertise, or evaluation of new reviewers. In all cases the Editor will endeavor to maintain the anonymity of the author and the reviewers. Submissions written by the Editor will require the assignment of an acting-Editor who will carry out the entire review and acceptance process in the same manner.
Acceptance of material for publication occurs only after the review process is completed and appropriate revisions have been made and accepted by the author. The final acceptance and timing of the publication is at the discretion of the Editor. The primary author must include his or her full name, affiliation, contact address, phone number, or e-mail with the submitted manuscript.
Reprint of ArticlesThe Journal will permit reprinting of articles based upon the wishes of the author. Such permission may be expressed through a Creative Commons licensing (see below), however, in cases where all rights are reserved or the article will be altered in some way in the new publication, the author will have to agree to the reprint in writing to the Editor. The Editor will in turn provide written authorization to the publication requesting the reprint. E-mails are accepted as written communication when received from a known e-mail address.
In some cases, the Journal may re-print an article that has been previously published in another publication. In such cases, the submitting author must include written authorization from the original publication’s editor giving permission to reprint the article. The letter must contain the original article citation and author information. Final discretion regarding reprinting articles resides with the Editor.
Copyright and AccessAuthors can choose from the following two options for publication of their article. In either case, the au-thor retains copyright with unrestricted publication
Submission Guidelines
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix M www.acsr.org
rights granted to the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction.
1. Not published for public access. This is the more restrictive access option and is intended for articles that are of a sensitive subject matter that is not appropriate public access. However, an author can also choose this option if he is uncomfortable with option 2.
2. Open Access publication (available to the public free of charge) distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works Li-cense (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/) which permits noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction, provided the original work is properly cited and is not altered, transformed, or built upon.
Format for SubmissionsThe Journal will only accept electronic submissions for publication. Files larger than 5MB should be submitted on a CD. Smaller submissions can be sent via e-mail to the Editor. Electronic submissions should be written in 12pt. font and saved in Microsoft Word, Word Perfect, or generic word processing format (e.g. doc, docx, wpd, or txt).
Table and ChartsTables and Charts should be submitted as separate files. Accepted formats include doc, docx, and xcl.
ImagesImages should be submitted in the highest available resolution and already cropped, if appropriate. The Editor will resize the image to a size and resolution appropriate for the article. Accepted file formats include tif, jpg, psd, and ia. The image files should be submitted separate from the article since the article will need to be formatted for the layout of the Journal and embedded images complicate that process.
Multimedia ContentThe Journal now accepts multimedia content such as audio and video files that can be embedded and played within the PDF version of the Journal, linked through the article for web viewing, or provided as supplemental material (see below). However, the ACSR Journal is still designed as a printable publication, so the article must contain sufficient text, photographs, and/or other static images to support the article. Multimedia content is encouraged, but is to be treated as bonus content for those viewing the electronic version. Accepted audio file formats are wav, aif, and au. Accepted
video format are QuickTime, avi, mpeg, and swf.
Supplemental MaterialAuthors may also submitted supplemental material that enhances the content of the article. This material will be made available on the website as a download associated with the article.
Units of MeasurementIn scientific fields throughout the world, including the United States, the standard measurement system is the metric system. As a journal of forensic science for an international organization it is only appropriate that all measurements in submitted articles be provided in either metric units or in English units with the metric conversion in parentheses.
Citation of ReferencesReferences should be annotated in the order men-tioned with a numeral in brackets. A list of refer-ences will then be provided at the end of the article showing the full citations in order of appearance in the text. Please use the CSE style for all citations. The following are a couple example citations in CSE style.
Journal ArticleFormat: Author(s). Article title. Journal title. Date;volume(issue):pagination.
Example: Smith AM, Doe J, Anderson CW. Re-producing an Unusual Bloodstain Pattern. J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2011;15(4):94-99.
BookFormat: Author(s). Title. Edition. Place of publi-cation: publisher; date.
Example: Smith AM, Anderson CW. Crime Scene Reconstruction. Baton Rouge: ABC Pub-lishing; 2011.
Send submissions to:Charles S. DeFrance, Editor8000 E. 36th AvenueDenver, CO [email protected]
Submission of a manuscript implies acceptance of these terms.
Submission Guidelines
www.acsr.org J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2)Appendix N
Association for Crime Scene ReconstructionMembership Application
Membership Type:
Personal Information
Name:
Agency / Business:
Agency / Business Address:
City: State / Provence: Country: Zip:
Address where you would like ACSR mail sent:
City: State / Provence: Country: Zip:
Telephone: Email:
Professional ExperienceProvide professional work history (including dates) and areas of specialization (attach resume or CV if needed)
Professional OrganizationsList all Professional Organizations in which you are a member of good standing. Include dates of membership.
Date received: ____________ Date posted ______________ Date accepted ____________ AC # ______
J Assoc Crime Scene Reconstr. 2012:18(2) Appendix O www.acsr.org
QualificationsList your specialties, disciplines and other areas of expertise.
List years of experience and whether you are a court qualified expert.
ACSR Member(s) recommending applicant
1._________________________________ 2. _______________________________
_________________________________ _______________________________ Typed if signed Typed if signed
________________________________________________ ____________________________________________ Email address of member Email address of member
Application / Membership Dues
I have attached a check: Check Number: Amount: Date: Please bill my credit card: Card Type: Card Number: Expiration Date: Card Verification Number:
Name as it appears on card: Company: Street Address: City: State: Postal Code: Country: Phone Number: Email address of card holder: I made my application payment on-line at www.acsr.org
I hear-by authorize the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction (ACSR) or any of its officers or agents to verify the accuracy of all the information provided by me in my application. I understand that any misrepresentation of my experience or qualifications is cause for rejection of my application.
Signature: __________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Please mail your application to Membership Chairman: Officer Jackie Smithson Broken Arrow Police Department 2302 S. 1st Place Broken Arrow, OK 74012 Phone: 918:451-8391 x 2 Fax: 918-451-8666
Amy Jagmin, ChairWashington State Patrol Crime Lab-Seattle2203 Airport Way South, Suite 250Seattle, WA 98134 USA206-262-6067 [email protected]
Excell
ence Education
Dedication
Assoc
iation
for
Crime Scene
Reconstruction
