NCJ Number
220230
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 57 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2007 Pages: 706-716
Date Published
September 2007
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this research paper was to determine whether a positive leucocrystal violet (LCV), a blood enhancement reagent, reaction could be produced from a substance other than blood.
Abstract
The use of leucocrystal violet (LCV), a blood enhancement reagent, in spray form was a successful search and enhancement technique to develop footwear marks in blood at a homicide scene involving a smoldering fire. These results became important in assessing whether nonvisible marks found at a homicide scene were made in blood or could have been made in another fluid. LCV is applied as a clear solution to search for and enhance marks in blood. When the LCV solution, which contains hydrogen peroxide, comes into contact with hemoglobin, a component of blood, a violet dye (crystal dye) is produced. Based on casework experience, it is believed that LCV has a high specificity for blood. Utilizing a homicide scene involving a smoldering fire, this research project sought to determine the specificity of LCV. Figures, table, references