Reading Assignment for Section 4.3

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 4.3: Paint Evidence.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll learn about the critical role of photographing and documenting paint evidence at crime scenes, and the steps needed to accurately collect paint samples for forensic analysis. You’ll explore how forensic paint analysis is used in criminal investigations, including the use of paint databases to match samples with specific vehicles. Additionally, you’ll examine the different layers of automotive paint, their functions, and how these layers can link a vehicle to a crime scene. Finally, you’ll discuss the application of paint evidence in cases like hate crimes, and evaluate the importance of maintaining sample integrity for reliable forensic results in court.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 4.3

• SLO 1: Describe the importance of photographing paint evidence at a crime scene and explain the steps involved in accurately documenting and collecting paint samples for forensic analysis.
• SLO 2: Explain the role of forensic paint analysis in criminal investigations, particularly how forensic scientists use paint databases and resources to match crime scene paint samples with specific vehicles.
• SLO 3: Identify and describe the different layers of automotive paint, including their function and how forensic scientists analyze these layers to link a vehicle to a crime scene.
• SLO 4: Discuss the application of forensic paint evidence in criminal cases, using the example of a hate crime investigation to illustrate how detailed paint analysis can support convictions.
• SLO 5: Evaluate the challenges and significance of maintaining the integrity of paint samples during collection and analysis, and how this impacts the overall reliability of forensic evidence in court.