Inconclusive Toolmark Finding
Definition
A comparison outcome in which the evidence does not support the permitted source identification or elimination conclusion under the applicable framework. It is not a weak positive and should not be upgraded through a database rank, investigative expectation or absence of obvious differences.
Related terms
- AFTE Theory of Identification
- A firearm/toolmark comparison framework based on sufficient agreement in the quality and quantity of surface features, assessed through trained examiner judgement. It...
- Impressed Toolmark
- A mark produced when contact deforms a substrate and preserves aspects of a tool’s surface or shape. It can retain microscopic comparison...
- Likelihood Ratio (Toolmarks)
- A comparison of the probability of observed findings under specified competing propositions, such as a same-source and a relevant different-source proposition. It...
- Striated Toolmark
- A mark involving relative sliding contact that can leave linear surface features. Its appearance depends on tool surface, motion, force and substrate....
- Subclass Characteristics
- Features potentially shared by a subset of tools or components through manufacture, rather than unique to one source. They can resemble fine...
- Test Toolmark
- A known mark made under documented conditions from a relevant tool surface for comparison with questioned evidence. Orientation, substrate, force and motion...
- Toolmark Cast
- A reproduction of a marked surface using a suitable casting process. It reverses surface relief and can preserve detail when the original...