Questioned

Documents

Questioned Document Examination

Purpose: to ascertain Source or

Authenticity

NOT personality = Graphology =

junk science

Although linguists can determine authenticity based on writing style, or regional differences based on grammar.

Importance

Most crimes involve paper. E.g., Ransom notes in kidnapping

Forged signature on a check

Business Records in a drug operation

Receipt for get-away rental cars

Questioned Document Examination

Document Examples Letters Checks Licenses Contracts Wills Passports Art work Historical Documents

Questioned Document Examination

Investigations may include: Verification of handwriting and signatures

Authentication of documents

Characterizing papers, pigments, and inks in writing instruments, typewriters, copy machines, etc.

Restoring erased and obliterated writing

Determining relative age of documents and inks

Questioned Document Examination

Investigative Tools may include: Stereomicroscope

Templates

Protractors

Grids

UV and IR Light sources

Five Basic Methods Used to Forge Documents

1. Freehand (no attempt to disguise own handwriting)

2. Tracing

3. Copying (attempt to look like original)

4. Mechanical Lifting

5. Optical or Printing Reproduction

Handwriting has both class and individual characteristics

Class Characteristics

• From practicing from copy books when learning to write.

Handwriting has both class and individual characteristics

1. Line quality: Lines are smooth, free flowing and rhythmic (vs jittery, shakey); have free flow into and out or letters.

2. Spacing of words and letters3. Ratio of relative height, width, and size of

letters4. Pen lifts and separations5. Connecting strokes6. Beginning and ending strokes

Handwriting has both class and individual characteristics

7. Unusual letter formation

8. Shading or pen pressure

9. Slant

10.Baseline habits

11.Flourishes or embellishments

12.Placement of diacritics

Look for individual characteristics