Publisher's Synopsis
This in-depth reference covers the analysis of bloodstain patterns found at violent crime scenes and outlines a logical, effective method for crime scene reconstruction. Each of these analysis methods is presented in the context of how it is used to solve crimes. The book first explains the history and evolution of bloodstain analysis and defines standard terminology. It then draws on the authors' own extensive field experience to establish a working model for crime scene analysis and reconstruction. The book also explains the basic properties of blood, its physical make-up and response to injury.
The authors explain how to use bloodstain patterns to understand events that occurred at a crime scene. They cover key areas such as defining motion, finding the point of origin, identifying impact spatter, and spotting characteristic patterns. Bevel and Gardner conclude with a discussion of the use of logic in analysis, and look objectively at the various opinions and schools of thought among law enforcement professionals. All of the data on current philosophies and methods is the very latest, most up-to-date information available today. The authors teach courses on this topic and use this work as their prescribed textbook.
The text concludes with practical information on documenting and collecting bloodstain pattern evidence, presenting evidence in court, and contending with bloodborne pathogens. Numerous photographs graphically depict the concepts presented.
