Can footprint measurements be an alternative for foot measurements: a forensic anthropological approach

Abstract

Footprints and foot measurements have recently gained importance as evidence in forensic case-works as the chances of recovering any pedal evidence from crime scenes or site of accidents are frequent. The present cross-sectional investigation aims to evaluate the morphometric differences between footprint and foot measurements and infer whether footprint evidence can be a replacement for foot morphometry, and vice versa. Age group of 18-25 years (128 males and 77 females) were selected as part of the research from Rajasthan in North-west India. Seven linear anthropometric measurements were considered for both foot and its subsequent footprint measurement: T1-T5 lengths, breadths at ball region and heel region. Results inflicted ball breadths have the least differences in both sexes. Considerably better correlational values were observed in males (0.854 - 0.284) in comparison to females (0.660 - 0.410). The study suggests that evidence like partial foot evidence can be a suitable replacement for foot impressions and can assist in forensic investigations.

Keywords

• Forensic sciences
• Footprint dimensions
• Foot dimensions
• Anthropometric techniques
• North-west India

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