Scientists have for the first time provided insight into how bomb residue transfers to the hands of suspects, which could lead to stronger evidence in court.
The study, which was led by a team from King’s College London and published today in the journal Science & Justice, investigated how explosive materials commonly found in pipe bombs and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) transferred to the palms and fingers of individuals who handled them. The researchers learned that the amount that was handled and the unique characteristics of the handler were important determining factors. Surprisingly, the brand or type of material appeared not to be a decisive influencing factor. The study is the first of its kind to explore how contextual factors influence explosive material residue transfer to hands, and could be used to help forensic experts in cases involving explosive materials.
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Source: EurekAlert!
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