Striated toolmarks comparison and reporting methods: Review and perspectives

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Criminalistics
• Evidence Analysis

Background:

• Toolmark examination has been utilized for over 100 years to identify the source of marks.
• Recent years have seen significant criticism regarding the scientific validity and reliability of toolmark comparison methods.
• These criticisms impact the presentation of findings in legal proceedings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize criticisms concerning the scientific reliability and validity of forensic toolmark comparison.
• To assess current comparison methods and reporting practices for striated toolmarks.
• To identify research needs and address concerns raised by critics to improve toolmark analysis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing criticisms and research on toolmark examination.
• Assessment of comparison methodologies and reporting standards for striated toolmarks.
• Evaluation of practices in light of current recommendations, including those from the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).

Main Results:

• The review highlights significant concerns about the scientific basis of toolmark comparison.
• Existing practices in striated toolmark examination show both strengths and weaknesses.
• There is a clear need for further research to validate methodologies and enhance reporting.

Conclusions:

• Addressing criticisms requires a deeper understanding of the scientific underpinnings of toolmark analysis.
• Enhancing the credibility of toolmark examination necessitates targeted research and improved practices.
• The findings aim to guide practitioners toward more robust and scientifically defensible conclusions.