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Animal-Source Proposition

Definition

An animal-source proposition is a stated explanation about which animal contributed questioned material. Its evaluation requires suitable observations and reference information, and is distinct from a proposition about human contact, transfer, ownership or another activity involving that animal.

Context
Animal DNA evidence

For example, an assessment that a particular animal contributed material is different from a claim that its owner physically deposited that material.

An animal-source association does not by itself establish which human acted, how transfer occurred or when the material was deposited.

Related terms

Animal Reference
An animal reference is a documented known-origin sample selected for an appropriate genetic or other comparison. A reference from one animal can...
Indirect Transfer
Movement of material through an intermediary rather than direct animal contact with the final surface. The intermediary, sequence and opportunities for persistence...
Population Structure
Genetic differentiation among defined populations or samples, not automatically useful geographic classification. Genetic differences among samples can reflect geography, time, family relationships...
Veterinary Forensic Pathology
Veterinary forensic pathology applies specialist examination of animal disease, injury and death to questions arising in a legal investigation. Findings require species-appropriate...

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