ALTERNATIVE FOOTWEAR IMPRESSION DETECTION AND PHOTOGRAPHY METHODS
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Authors
Townsend, Duane E.
Issue Date
2013
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This project explores effective methodologies of detecting and photographing two of the more difficult types of footwear impressions to locate and retrieve from crime scenes; with emphasis on utilization of readily available alternate light sources (ALS). The research addresses whether utilization of ALS commonly available to investigators can more effectively detect footwear impressions in dust and result in better evidence quality photographs; whether application of a substance such as hairspray on such a dust impression will further enhance evidence quality photography; and if use of an ALS can result in better detection and photographs of footwear impressions on carpet. The researcher produced footwear impressions in dust on a smooth surface, then attempted detection and photography with ambient light, oblique white light, and an ALS. Hairspray was subsequently introduced for photography with all three light sources. The initial detection and photography process was then repeated with footwear impression produced on carpet. The researcher found effective methodologies in detecting and photographing the dust prints on a smooth surface with both oblique white light and the ALS: and the hairspray assisted in removing granular distractions from impression details in the photographs. The ALS revealed the most impression detail but presented some photography challenges. However, similar techniques did not prove as effective in revealing footwear impressions on carpet.