What is an altered bloodstain from a non-bloodstained object called?

Study for the South Dakota Law Enforcement Officer Certification Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready to excel in your assessment!

An altered bloodstain from a non-bloodstained object is referred to as a wipe. This term is used in forensic science to describe the pattern created when an object comes into contact with a bloodstain and removes or alters the original stain, typically leaving behind a smudge or mark that can indicate movement or interaction with the surface.

In forensic investigations, recognizing different types of bloodstain patterns is crucial for reconstructing events at a crime scene. A wipe specifically indicates an area where blood has been physically disturbed, providing investigators with information about the actions that may have taken place. This can help determine the movement of individuals or objects within the scene and can lead to a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding a violent event.

The other terms refer to different phenomena. A swipe refers to blood transferred from a bloodied object to another surface. Spatter denotes bloodstains that have been expelled from a source in a dynamic manner, while pooled refers to blood that has collected in a specific area. These distinctions are vital for accurately interpreting the evidence and understanding the interactions that occurred during an incident.

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