NCJ Number
88642
Journal
Archiv fuer kriminologie Volume: 170 Issue: 5-6 Dated: (November/December 1982) Pages: 129-145
Date Published
1982
Length
17 pages
Annotation
The experiment involves the systematic application of various types of blades and slashing or stabbing motions to a variety of textiles, yielding patterns of clothing damage that can provide clues to the instrument and manner of attack in criminal assault investigations.
Abstract
Different rupture effects are evidenced in material, depending on whether the damage was done with a cutting, stabbing, tearing or twisting motion, which in turn is determined by the kind of instrument used. Examined were the effects of nine different thrusts at varying speeds, using five blade varieties and a corkscrew upon seven fabrics, including nylon hose; leather; cotton quilting, knit, jeans, and shirt material; and wool overcoat material. It is suggested that forensic investigators simulate the ways in which similar damage could be caused in a sample of the same cloth and employ photographic enlargements of the evidence. Illustrations are provided, as are 17 references.