Quantitative Analysis of Torn and Cut Duct Tape Physical End Matching

• NCJ Number: 243680
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: S 1 Dated: January 2013 Pages: S 34-S 42
• Author(s): Kaitlin R. McCabe, M.S.; Frederic A. Tulleners, M.A.; Jerome V. Braun, Ph.D.; Gillian Currie, M.S.; Esmeraldo N. Gorecho, III, M.S.
• Date Published: January 2013
• Length: 9 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2009-DN-BX-K235
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute of Justice (NIJ)
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study was designed to statistically evaluate the error and accuracy rates associated with duct tape physical end matching.

Abstract

Forensic scientists are often asked to physically compare duct tape samples found in association with criminal activity. This study was designed to statistically evaluate the error and accuracy rates associated with duct tape physical end matching. The experimental design consisted of a blind study in which three researchers independently analyzed eight types of tape subjected to four methods of separation. The lowest mean accuracy observed was 98.15%, the highest mean false-positive rate observed was 3.33%, and the highest mean false-negative rate was 2.67%. Overall, high accuracy with low false-positive and false-negative error rates were observed. This study confirms the use of physical end matching in identifying duct tape samples as matching or nonmatching and that the differences between analysts, brands, tape grades, tape color, and methods of separation have varying contributions to misidentifications and inconclusive results. This study also demonstrates the importance of peer review in duct tape analysis. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.