Forensic    Shoeprint    Evidence

Dependent upon a variety of circumstances at a crime scene, the shoe prints of a suspect may be found.  This very basic form of evidence may become very useful if the suspect is ever located and found to be wearing or in possession of the same shoes he/she wore while committing the crime! Investigators can make certain assumptions about the suspect from a shoeprint to include movement throughout the crime scene not to mention the approximate size, height and weight of the suspect.   This shoeprint evidence lab will consist of three components:

1.        Measurement and analysis of 2 Dimensions Shoeprints

2.        Estimation of suspect height based upon foot size and shoe size

3.        Processing and collection of three-dimensional shoeprint evidence

 

Lab A (50 points):  After reading pages 432-426 you will complete Activity 15-2 in the Class Text (pp. 454-456).  You will create an inked impression of your right shoe for the shoeprint database.  Using this inked impression, you will answer the applicable questions in Activity 15-2.  Use your four digit number (not your name) to identify your shoeprint.  This number will appear in the upper right hand corner of the side opposite your actual shoeprint on the exemplar card.   Prepare your typed answers to all questions on page 456.  You may work in small groups to complete this lab.

 

Lab B (30 points):  A classroom crime scene will become available for you to collect a 2-Dimensional Shoe impression of the suspect.  You are expected to identify 12 characteristics of this crime scene print. Once given access to the shoe print database, using your “lift,” produce a typewritten analysis of the comparison you made from the crime scene to the data base print you believe is associated to a particular suspect.  Your analysis must include a minimum of five characteristics, each defined using applicable measures and descriptions.   You must produce a photocopy of both the database and crime scene print to submit with your memo. 

Example: “The Nike “Swoosh,” labeled Point A, found in the center of both the suspect shoe print and the database exemplar, are identical.  Both measure 5 inches from tip to tip (see diagram points A & B) and both impressions have what appears to be a small tear 1/8 inch tear in the sole exactly 2 & ¾ inches above the “N” in Nike.”

 

Lab C (20 points):  You will create your own 3 Dimensional Shoe impression in sand/dirt and cast the impression using a dental stone mixture.  The class will do this lab together.