Use of an Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Plastic Ring as a Matrix in the Recovery of Bite Mark Evidence

• NCJ Number: 132532
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 5 Dated: (September 1991) Pages: 1565-1571
• Author(s): D J Sweet; R B Bastien
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Test/Measurement
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Presented at the 42nd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Cincinnati, OH, February 19-24, 1990

Annotation

A newly developed tissue recovery technique for bite mark evidence is described that uses a heated ring of acrylonitrile- butadine styrene (ABS) plastic.

Abstract

The plastic rings were made from ABS plastic pipes commonly used in commercial and residential construction. Rings with an 8- centimeter (cm) diameter were used for most bite mark injuries, whereas the 10-cm rings were used for larger pattern injuries. Anatomical references were stamped onto each side of the ring to provide markers to record the anatomical orientation of the injury. To minimize distortion, the shape of the plastic ring was adapted to the contour of the skin surface by a technique using table salt over a heat source. This application of the ring to the deceased victim's skin together with appropriate backing material for support allowed removal of the skin and the bite mark while maintaining anatomical contour. Transillumination of the bite mark and the associated bruise pattern could be undertaken after removal and preservation of the skin. Numerous photographs of the skin surface and the technique of skin removal and preservation provides a record of the procedures followed and subsequent assistance during analysis of the evidence. 4 figures and 12 references (Author abstract modified)