Distinguishing Characteristics of Robotic Writing.

Advances in robotic handwriting technology create new challenges for forensic document examiners. In the past, devices such as the autopen were used to replicate signatures of government officials and corporate companies. In today's technology, companies such as Bond utilize robots to create written documents, which mimic natural patterns of handwriting. They generate customizable written samples by simulating pen movements and letter formations. Four forensic document examiners were given various reproduced questioned documents and utilized a modified ACE-V (analysis, comparison, evaluation, verification) methodology to determine their genuineness. Examiners were able to make a distinction between the human writing samples and the skilled robotic equivalents. Several distinct features that are not seen in natural handwriting, such as even pen pressure and the superimposition of letterforms were observed in the robotic samples. Careful examination of identifying features of the Bond produced documents resulted in an opinion of nongenuineness.

A Historical, Detailed Toolmark Examination from 1916.

Marc Bischoff received his PhD from the University of Lausanne, Institute of Police Science and Criminology, and later became the head of the Institute. His final examination paper for his doctorate degree constitutes a toolmark analysis and comparison between a suspected axe and questioned cuttings of wood trunks. Bischoff uses the scientific method to test the hypothesis he formulated. Dated 1916, this report includes his notes, measurements, photomicrographs of the questioned toolmarks and the test impressions, detailed sketches, technical discussion, results, and conclusions. Recognizing the historical value of Bischoff's work, it seemed important to get it translated. Photocopies of Bischoff's original work were obtained. The case report, translated from French, is presented here along with a brief history of the Firearm and Toolmark Identification field and Bischoff's role in the beginning of this field. Bischoff's work stands as testimony to the long tradition of the field of forensic toolmark analysis.

Casting of 3-dimensional footwear prints in snow with foam blocks.

Commercially available foam blocks are presented as an alternative material for the casting and preservation of 3-dimensional footwear impressions located in snow. The method generates highly detailed foam casts of questioned footwear impressions. These casts can be compared to the known outsole standards made from the suspects' footwear. Modification of the commercially available foam casting blocks is simple and fast. The foam block is removed and a piece of cardboard is secured to one side of the block with painter's masking tape. The prepared foam block is then placed back into its original box, marked appropriately, closed and stored until needed. When required the foam block is carefully removed from its storage box and gently placed, foam side down, over the questioned footwear impression. Next, the crime scene technician's hands are placed on top of the cardboard and pressure is gently applied by firmly pressing down onto the impression. The foam cast is removed, dried and placed back into its original container and sealed. The resulting 3D impressions can be directly compared to the outsole of known suspected item(s) of footwear.