U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

FITS—Functional Implementation of Thorough and Systematic Approaches for Fracture Examinations

This webinar describes a simple and systematic method for comparing fracture fits using standardized qualitative and quantitative criteria. An extensive database of nearly 9,000 samples of duct tapes, automotive polymers, and textiles is used to estimate performance rates and strengthen the scientific foundations of fracture fit determinations. Also, the consistency of results from inter-laboratory studies shows the utility and reliability of the proposed approach. This presentation demonstrates harmonized examination protocols and decision thresholds, effective mechanisms to ensure a transparent and reproducible peer-review process, and metrics that substantiate the evidential value of fracture fit conclusions.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on June 4, 2024.

Date Published: June 24, 2024