NCJ Number
75884
Journal
Journal of the Forensic Sciences Society Volume: 20 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1980) Pages: 253-261
Date Published
1980
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This British study provides forensic examiners with data regarding frequency of occurrence of fiber types in garment classes, using samples form control items in the Home Office and Metropolitan Police laboratories.
Abstract
Two collections (in winter and in summer) were made during the period between 1977 and 1978. In all, 3,836 items were examined yielding 10,034 different fiber records. The fiber types were determined using mainly microscopy. The color of each fiber type was coded using the Methuen Handbook of Colour. The data recorded for each control item were collated and fed into a computer. The results of the winter and summer collections were compared. They showed that jumpers, trousers, and jackets were the most frequently encountered items. The distribution of fibers in each collection was generally similar. There was a 30 percent drop in items containing wool from the winter to the summer collection, which probably reflected the change to less warm clothing in the summer months. The most common fiber type was found to be cotton and polyester. The relative distribution within the synthetic fibers reflected the 1976 production figures. On the average, some 50 to 60 percent of items collected, both in the winter and in the summer, were composed of only one generic fiber type. One-third of the samples were found to be white or black. Vivid red was found to be a dominant color for all the major fiber types, while deep dark blue was common to all but viscose fibers. The data should help the examiners interpret the results of comparisons between fibers recovered from the scene of a crime and control garments. Statistical data and 7 references are included.