A FRAMEWORK FOR BLOODSTAIN ANALYSIS AT CRIME SCENES FOR INVESTIGATIVE OFFICERS

Abstract

Bloodstain evidence is an important source of information for explaining the nature and sequence of events at a crime scene. However, forensic laboratory examinations require time for analysis and confirmation, while investigative officers must assess the situation and determine investigative directions from the early stages of a case. This academic article aims to propose a framework for bloodstain interpretation at crime scenes for investigative officers. The study is based on principles of bloodstain pattern analysis, concepts of decision-making under uncertainty, and practical experience in crime scene investigations. The findings indicate that officers can utilize observation, bloodstain pattern recognition, and behavioral hypothesis formulation to assess the direction of events, the mechanism of injury, and the possible actions of individuals involved. The proposed framework serves as a decision-support tool for guiding investigations during the initial stage of a case and is not intended to replace forensic examinations. The study also found that systematic bloodstain interpretation can facilitate event reconstruction and contribute to a more timely identification of offenders.