Spectroscopic imaging based approach for condom identification in condom contaminated fingermarks

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Sexual offenders may use condoms to avoid leaving DNA evidence.
• Condom lubricants on victims can serve as crucial evidence, but detection can be challenging due to delayed reporting or victim washing.
• Previous work demonstrated Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation MS Imaging (MALDI MSI) can detect condom lubricants on fingermarks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multidisciplinary spectroscopic approach for identifying condom brands and types.
• To create a unique "condom brand spectroscopic fingerprint" for forensic analysis.
• To enhance the ability to link sexual assault suspects to crimes through condom identification.

Main Methods:

• Application of a multidisciplinary spectroscopic approach including MALDI MSI, MS/MS, Raman microscopy, and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy.
• Analysis of a diverse range of condom brands and types.
• Development of complementary techniques to provide comprehensive identification data.

Main Results:

• Successful development of a "condom brand spectroscopic fingerprint" by combining multiple spectroscopic techniques.
• Demonstration that these complementary spectroscopic methods provide unique profiles for different condom brands.
• Establishment of a novel method for screening and identifying condom brands used in sexual assaults.

Conclusions:

• The developed multidisciplinary spectroscopic approach offers a powerful tool for identifying condom brands from forensic evidence.
• This technique can significantly aid investigations by providing crucial intelligence on the type of condom used.
• The ability to identify specific condom brands strengthens the link between assailants and sexual assault crimes.