NCJ Number
153159
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 40 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1995) Pages: 139-145
Date Published
1995
Length
7 pages
Annotation
In connection with the investigation of a homicide case in which the victim has been so severely beaten about the face, neck, and chest area that he was unrecognizable, forensic scientists examined the pattern of bloodstains left at the scene.
Abstract
Blood has been spattered on walls and ceiling areas over 9 feet off the ground. The investigation was designed to determine the veracity of the suspect's statement, in which he claimed to be reacting in self-defense by knocking down the victim and kicking him a few times. During the investigation, certain bloodstains were selected based upon their being representative of overall patterns chosen for analysis. The investigators tried to recreate the patterns by simulating a "stomping" and the results indicated that the victim may have been killed during this type of attack. 7 figures and 12 references