About Impression Evidence
Impression evidence can be generally defined as objects or materials that have retained the characteristics of other objects or materials through direct contact. Footwear and tire tread impressions are the most common types of impression evidence.
As a form of physical evidence, footwear and tire tread impressions can provide an important link between a suspect and the scene of a crime.
Footwear Impressions
Footwear examinations are less common than fingerprint examinations, for several reasons. Such marks are not as commonly sought or recovered by crime scene investigators. The clarity of reproduction required for conclusive individualization is not as often present. And individualization is only possible where random, individual characteristics have been imparted to the sole of the shoe and reproduced in the impression.
Where that individual detail is present in sufficient quantity and quality, it is possible to individualize an impression to a specific shoe.
Tire Tread Impressions
Vehicles also leave impressions at or near a crime scene. Tire tread impressions are encountered even less often than footwear impressions. The forensic examiner develops the skill to visualize and enhance these impressions through a set of established procedures.
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