Research has determined that metal objects leave traces on skin and clothing surfaces in characteristic patterns, with intensities proportional to the interaction of weight, friction, or duration of contact with metal objects. The Trace Metal Detection Technique (TMDT) makes such metal trace patterns visible when skin or clothing is treated with a test solution and then is illuminated by ultraviolet light. The metal trace patterns appear as fluorescent colors on the hands or clothing of the suspect, allowing a police officer to determine whether the suspect has been in contact with certain metal objects, the type of metal or metals in the objects, and what type of object was probably involved. However, physical evidence obtained through the technique should be used as an adjunct to a complete investigation. Photographs and detailed description of equipment and procedures used
Downloads
Similar Publications
- Examining longitudinal associations between polysubstance use and firearm-related risk behaviors from adolescence into emerging adulthood: a group-based multi-trajectory modeling approach
- The Effect of Ultraviolet Radiation on Dyed Man-Made Textile Fibers Using UV-Vis Microspectrophotometry (MSP): Technical Aspects on Spectral Alterations in Time
- Characteristics of officer-involved vehicle collisions in California