Bloodstain classification methods: A critical review and a look to the future

Journal article


Hook, E., Fieldhouse, S., Flatman-Fairs, D. and Williams, G. 2024. Bloodstain classification methods: A critical review and a look to the future. Science & Justice. 64 (4), pp. 408-420. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scijus.2024.06.004
AuthorsHook, E., Fieldhouse, S., Flatman-Fairs, D. and Williams, G.
Abstract

Classifying bloodstains is an essential part of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis. Various experts have developed methods. Each method considers the same basic bloodstain pattern types. These use either terminology based on the observable characteristics or the mechanistic cause of the bloodstain patterns as part of the classification process. This review paper considers ten classification methods from fourteen sources, which are used to classify bloodstain patterns. There are fundamental differences in how the patterns are classified, how differentiated the classification is, and whether the classification process uses clear, unambiguous criteria, and is susceptible to contextual bias. Experts have also reported issues with classifying bloodstains that have indistinguishable features. These differences expose key limitations with current classification methods: mechanistic terminology is too heavily relied on, and the classification process is susceptible to contextual bias. The development of an unambiguous classification method, based on directly observable characteristics within bloodstain patterns is recommended for future work.

KeywordsBloodstain pattern analysis; Classification ; Pattern characteristics ; Forensic science; Mechanistic ; Blood spatter
Year2024
JournalScience & Justice
Journal citation64 (4), pp. 408-420
PublisherElsevier
ISSN1355-0306
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scijus.2024.06.004
Web address (URL)https://www-sciencedirect-com.derby.idm.oclc.org/science/article/pii/S1355030624000546?via%3Dihub
Publisher's version
License
File Access Level
Open
Output statusPublished
Publication dates
Online21 Jun 2024
Publication process dates
Deposited23 Jul 2024
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https://repository.derby.ac.uk/item/q77w6/bloodstain-classification-methods-a-critical-review-and-a-look-to-the-future

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