Two-dimensional metric comparison between dynamic bare and sock-clad footprints for its forensic implications - A...

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Biometrics
• Anthropometry

Background:

• Footprints are crucial physical evidence in criminal investigations.
• Distinguishing between bare and sock-clad footprints can be challenging for forensic examiners.
• Understanding dimensional variations is key for accurate evidence analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare two-dimensional measurements of bare and sock-clad footprints.
• To determine significant differences or similarities relevant to forensic casework.
• To assess the impact of footwear (or lack thereof) on footprint dimensions.

Main Methods:

• Dynamic footprints collected from 50 participants (30 males, 20 females) using the Identicator Inkless Shoe Print Model LE 25P system.
• A midgait protocol was used to capture the fifth and sixth footprints for each foot (right and left).
• Comparative analysis of foot length and width measurements between barefoot and sock-clad conditions.

Main Results:

• No significant differences (p > .05) were found in foot length measurements between bare and sock-clad footprints for either the right or left foot.
• Significant differences were observed in the width measurements when comparing bare versus sock-clad footprints.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering sock presence in width-based footprint comparisons.

Conclusions:

• Two-dimensional length measurements of footprints are generally reliable for comparing bare and sock-clad feet in forensic contexts.
• Width measurements show significant variation, necessitating careful consideration of whether a footprint was made by a bare or sock-clad foot.
• The study provides valuable insights for forensic practitioners, particularly in cases involving ambiguous footprint evidence.