Transcript Questioned Documents

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
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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Historical Documents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 letters
3. Ratio of relative height, width, and size of
letters
4. Pen lifts and separations
5. Connecting strokes
6. 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