About

The examination of blood patterns found in a scene or on items recovered from the scene. The BGA Bloodstain Pattern Analyst Professional Development Program (BPAPD) is a program consisting of four parts. We feel it represents the most comprehensive study plan for BPA analysts offered in the United States.

To properly train competent bloodstain pattern analysts, a comprehensive training program is required that leads the student from novice to competent analyst and ultimately to the status of expert. In the recent past, questions have been raised with regard to the technical training analysts receive, particularly within the United States.

Based on these concerns, BGA has revised and expanded its bloodstain training curriculum beyond that found in the classic “Basic” and “Advanced” bloodstain courses. The BGA Bloodstain Pattern Analyst Professional Development Program (BPAPD) is intended to better meet the needs of both the student and the discipline.

Concept:

The BPAPD program incorporates three distinct training courses of one week each. A Level I course introduces the student to bloodstain pattern analysis with a significant concentration on basic pattern recognition and documentation. The Level II course concentrates on the proper application of the scientific method, experimental design, and clothing examinations. Between the Level II and Level III courses, the student participates in a mentorship program. The mentoring program includes requirements for both case analysis and research design/completion. The Level III course includes a pre-course case analysis and then an on-site course concentration on experimental design and courtroom presentations.

BPA Level I

Length: One week
Purpose: To develop a basic understanding of the discipline of bloodstain pattern analysis.

Objectives:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the development, history, and advancement of bloodstain pattern analysis.

• Define the inherent limitations of bloodstain pattern analysis as a forensic discipline.

• Identify key bloodstain patterns using a taxonomic classification system and understand the mechanism by which they are created.

• Determine impact angles and area of origin for spatter patterns.

• Describe proper protective measures to follow in a bloodstained scene.

• Demonstrate an ability to evaluate a basic bloodstain pattern scene.

• Demonstrate the ability to properly document a bloodstained scene in photographs and written reports.

Course Brochure

This course has been approved for 40 hours of certification/recertification training credit by the IAI Crime Scene Certification Board.