Introduction to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

• NCJ Number: 238929
• Journal: .SIAK - International Edition Volume: 2 Dated: 2012 Pages: 51-57
• Author(s): Silke Brodbeck
• Date Published: 2012
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Instructional Material
• Language: English
• Country: Austria

Annotation

This article on bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) defines it and when it should be used, followed by discussions of how BPA developed, the basic principles of BPA, the classification of bloodstains, and BPA at the crime scene.

Abstract

BPA is "the systematic assessment of the visual patterns of bloodstains at crime scenes based on the physics of fluids." Bloodstains are analyzed according to shape, size, and distribution. BPA's objective is to determine how blood traveled through a given space to leave stains on a surface. A thorough knowledge of physics and bloodstain pattern analysis, particularly differential diagnoses, is essential in order to make an accurate assessment of the events that caused a particular bloodstain pattern. The classification of bloodstains most often used was developed by S. James, P. Kish, and P. Sutton (2005). Bloodstains are divided into three categories: passive/gravity, spatter, and altered. The characteristics of each of these categories of bloodstains are described. Although it is desirable for bloodstains to be assessed as soon as possible after the crime scene is identified, BPA is also possible weeks and even months later, assuming the bloodstains are well-preserved. Blood stains exposed to weather effects require analysis within a short time after their occurrence. In addition to the usual documentation of blood discharged at the crime scene, exposed body parts of deceased persons (particularly the face and inner and outer surfaces of the hands should be photographed. Clothing should also be photographed. The report of the BPA expert should describe the bloodstains and present an analysis of the bloodstains. The expert must also give an opinion about the surfaces on which the bloodstains were found and the state of the blood. The formation and appearance of bloodstains are highly dependent on the surface on which they are formed. 10 figures and 14 references