An individual characteristic is a feature that can be associated with a single, unique source to a high degree of certainty.
In forensic science, individual characteristics are crucial for identifying a specific person or object. They provide compelling evidence because the probability of two different sources sharing the same combination of these characteristics is extremely low, often to the point of defying mathematical calculation.
Here are some examples of individual characteristics:
- Fingerprints: The unique patterns of ridges and valleys on a person's fingertips.
- DNA: The genetic material unique to an individual (excluding identical twins).
- Striations on a bullet: The microscopic markings left on a bullet as it passes through the barrel of a gun, creating a unique "fingerprint."
These characteristics are incredibly valuable in investigations because they can directly link evidence to a specific source, providing strong evidence in legal proceedings.
