Detection and research of gunshot residue on hands and clothes of a suspect

Abstract

The practice of forensic examinations of gunshot residue has been researched. The problems arising when identifying gunshot residue have been considered. It has been found that the errors made by experts when giving conclusions have both objective and subjective reasons. The ways to eliminate these causes have been outlined. A compara-tive analysis of various approaches to the evaluation of the results of the study of gunshot residue in Russia and abroad has been carried out. The author concludes that the foreign approach has its positive and negative sides. Metals, indicating a possible shot, the sources of their origin and diphenylamine have been considered. The circumstances of accidental appearance of the gunshot residue have been indicated. The conclusion about the need for the expert to request the case papers in order to establish the profes-sion of a suspect and the circumstances of shooting. The influence of various factors on the results of the examination has been analyzed. The analysis of expert practice has been carried out. The most preferable methods of identifying the products of the gun shot on hands and clothes of the gunman have been established, their advantages and disad-vantages have been noted. It has also been concluded that a more detailed study of the causes of diphenylamine and other gunshot residue is necessary (in cases where it is not related to the shot of a firearm).