Kenneth Pye Associates Ltd.
 Scientific Research, Consultancy and Investigations

              
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Use of soil and sediment as trace evidence
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The forensic potential of geological and soil evidence has been recognised for more than a century, but recently these types of evidence are used much more widely as an investigative intelligence tool and as evidence in court. We undertake sampling of soils and sediments at crime scenes, examination of vehicles, clothing, footwear and other items of investigative interest, and undertake a range of physical and chemical tests to facilitate sample comparisons. Additional services include field and laboratory experimentation, database interrogation, and provision of expert witness testimony on behalf of both prosecution and defence.

We have undertaken numerous investigations in relation to serious crime and alleged crime, both in the UK and overseas. Further information is available on request.

    
Mud-stained spade and boots                                        Organic-rich mud staining on trousers of murder
                                                                                      victim

    
Mud-spots on jumper of murder                                Inspection of crime scene
suspect

    
      Burnt-out vehicle used by murder suspect                 Experiment to determine the retention of mud and
                                                                                      chalk debris on the underside of a vehicle during use

    
               Mud splashes on suspects car                                 Sampling of soil from a pair of dirty hands

    
Traces of soil trapped under fingernail (picture width       Five ooids examined under a binocular microscope
c. 1 cm)                                                                         after chemical analysis by laser ablation ICP-MS

    
                Gun recovered from burial site                               Close-up of soil particles on gun hand-grip

    
Freshwater diatom in lung extract of drowning victim             Sand grain from sole of suspect's shoe

Kenneth Pye Associates Ltd. - Environmental Consultants
Page last modified: July 11, 2007