This 40-hour Basic Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA) course is designed for the student who wants to learn how to correctly identify and document bloodstain patterns. It will begin with the fundamental principles of BPA and theories behind pattern formation, and evolve to practical application including scenario based training and mock scenes.
Classroom presentations are supplemented with numerous hands-on activities, and more than 50% of the class is dedicated to practical application.
By the end of the training the student will feel comfortable analyzing a scene and be able to understand the actions that could or could not have occurred. This class will be useful to crime scene investigators, laboratory personnel who analyze bloodstained evidence, detectives who interview individuals involved in scenes of bloodshed and prosecutors who should have an understanding of the discipline before presenting BPA evidence in court.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Develop an understanding of the physical characteristics of bloodstain patterns
Learn how to correctly document and collect bloodstains and bloodstain patterns
Develop an understanding of the physics and mathematics of blood in motion
Understand how bloodstain pattern analysis can be utilized to aid in case reconstruction
COURSE CONTENT
History of bloodstain pattern analysis
Composition of blood
Physics of blood and blood in motion
Bloodstain terminology
Bloodstain pattern analysis methodology
Bloodstain pattern characteristics and identification
Documentation and collection of bloodstains
Determining area of convergence and area of origin in impact patterns
Case examples utilizing bloodstain pattern analysis
Limitations of bloodstain pattern analysis
Introduction to report writing and courtroom testimony
Bloodstain pattern analysis reconstruction
Holly Latham, CBPA
Holding a Bachelor of Science Degree in Microbiology from Kansas State University and a Master’s Degree in Justice Studies from Fort Hays State University, Holly Lathem both a Certified Bloodstain Pattern Analyst (CBPA), and a Certified Latent Print Examiner (CLPE).
