Scientific and Legal Applications of Bloodstain Pattern Interpretation

Since 1955 when Dr. Paul Kirk first presented a bloodstain evidence affidavit in State of Ohio v. Samuel Sheppard, expert testimony on bloodstain interpretation has gained wide acceptance in U.S. courts. Scientific and Legal Applications of Bloodstain Pattern Interpretation brings together some of the most respected and noted experts in forensic science, the law, and bloodstain interpretation to provide a comprehensive overview of the discipline. It discusses research, applications, and the current view of bloodstain pattern interpretation within the legal system at the trial and appellate court levels, as well as scientific approaches and developments in the field. Scientific and Legal Applications of Bloodstain Pattern Interpretation will help attorneys who are questioning and cross-examining expert witnesses have a good working knowledge of bloodstain interpretation. Included is a full-color atlas of bloodstains, in conjunction with a glossary of terms and an outline of basic laboratory experiments that are commonly used in the discipline. TOC:Defining the Address of Bloodstains and Other Evidence at the Crime Scene.- Bloodstain Pattern Analysis with a Computer.- Utilizing Bloodstains in Accident Reconstruction. The Use of Presumptive Testing for Blood.- Terminology and Color Atlas of Bloodstains and Patterns.- Approach to Case Evaluation and Report Writing.- Legal and Ethical Aspects of Bloodstain Pattern Evidence.- Bloodstain Pattern Interpretation-A Post-Conviction Analysis.- Outline of Basic Laboratory Experiments for Bloodstain Pattern.- Interpretation. Appendix 1: Affidavit of Paul Leland Kirk (State of Ohio v. Samuel H. Sheppard. Appendix 2: Illustrative Testimony-A Motion in Limine for the Admissibility of Bloodstain Pattern Interpretation. Appendix 3: Court Decisions Relating to Bloodstain Pattern Interpretation. Appendix 4: Court Decisions Relating to Presumptive Blood Testing. Appendix 5: Trigonometric Tables. Index.