Date of Award
Spring 6-1-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Forensic Science
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Peter Diaczuk
Second Reader
Jack Hietpas
Third Advisor
Andrew Winter
Abstract
Bloodstain detection can provide valuable information on the ability of presumptive tests. When perpetrators seek to alter the scene of violent crimes to interfere with investigations or flee from justice, crime scene investigation becomes more complex. In this analysis, scenarios where bloodstain evidence is attempted to be removed by household cleaners and covered up by acrylic or oil-based paint, are tested using luminol and Kastle-Meyer direct testing. These bloodstains have been altered by bleach, dish soap or all-purpose cleaner and covered under multiple layers of acrylic or oil-based paint. Evidence is documented both photographically and visually to simulate crime scene investigation and focuses on layers of paint as the main avenue of reducing visibility. A positive result is determined by the ability to be visually and photographically seen within the acceptable timeframe of reference for these presumptive tests. The study concluded that bloodstains covered by oil-based paint are less effectively hidden than bloodstains covered by acrylic paint when presumptive testing is applied by the two-step method.
Recommended Citation
Lehr, Skye E., "Investigating the detection ability of presumptive bloodstain testing through concealment obstacles" (2026). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/402
