NCJ Number
205491
Journal
Evidence Technology Magazine Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2004 Pages: 24-27
Editor(s)
Kristi Mayo
Date Published
April 2004
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article examines the reasons crime-scene investigators should cast footwear impressions.
Abstract
In the past, casting footwear impressions was not a favorite task of crime-scene investigators because it was too messy, too time-consuming, and too complicated. The development of new materials and new casting procedures should make it easier for investigators to cast impressions. The article lists seven reasons to cast impressions: (1) the cast creates a life-like, life-sized molding of the original impression; (2) it creates an accurate reproduction of microscopic characteristics; (3) in deep impressions, the cast gives reproductions of characteristics of the sides of the outsoles and midsoles of the shoe; (4) two problems with photography, scale and focus, are eliminated; (5) casts create tangible, three-dimensional evidence of the footwear impression; (6) casts give physical confirmation of details captured in photographs; and (7) by examining the cast, the depth of the imprint can be easily measured. The article also lists five common materials and methods that may be used to cast footwear and tire-tread impressions. These materials are Traxtone, Die-Keen, Jade Stone, Dental stone, and Plaster of Paris. The author compared all of the casting materials on impressions that were placed in a variety of different soils, and found Traxtone to be the best material, providing additional detail with excellent reproduction and durability.