NCJ Number
139589
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 42 Issue: 6 Dated: (November-December 1992) Pages: 517-522
Date Published
1992
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The use of narrow-band light can reveal a trace bruise that cannot be seen under ordinary light and can be a useful method to identify possible suspects in violent crimes.
Abstract
When an object is used to strike something, a trace bruise is created that can persist for 10 days or more. The use of alternative light sources with a narrow-band light centered at 450 nm and viewed through yellow goggles, can reveal the trace bruise patterns on a suspect's hands. The observed wound patterns must be documented photographically. Several examples of the discovery of trace wounds made by a metal pipe, the suspect's hands, a buckle, and a shotgun with a broken stock reveal the importance of the technique in criminal investigations. In January 1992, a murder conviction was obtained using documentation of trace bruise patterns from a pair of bolt cutters. Thus, the early scanning of possible suspects can eliminate or focus attention on people who have had contact with a murder weapon. An NIJ grant will allow the authors to research this issue further and improve the photographic technique. Figures and 3 references