NCJ Number
218563
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 57 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2007 Pages: 348-357
Date Published
May 2007
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article describes how to use a photographic grid for the documentation of bloodstain evidence at a crime scene.
Abstract
The photographic grid technique can be used to selectively or completely document bloodstain patterns at a crime scene. The procedure can be used by experts as well as novice crime scene photographers who have no knowledge of bloodstain pattern analysis. The procedure begins by establishing a grid where two walls meet, which will be point zero for measuring horizontally. Investigators should measure in 1-foot increments from the floor to the ceiling and from the corner of the walls. Vertical and horizontal lines should then be drawn 1-foot apart so that the wall looks like a grid pattern. Next, each cell should be given its own designation and adhesive scales with inch and metric increments should be placed in each cell next to a blood pattern. After the grid is drawn and the scales are in place, the photography begins. An overall photograph of the entire wall should be taken along with photographs of each individual cell, making sure all four borders of the cells are visible. Using this technique, the investigator will end up with complete photographic documentation of every blood drop or pattern at a crime scene. Variations of the technique are described and include the use of string and push pins to develop the grid. Contact information for further information is offered. Table, figures, references