Joseph A. Slemko

A printable detailed resume is available here (.pdf)

              I have given opinion evidence for both the Defence and the Prosecution in Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom relating to; Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, Liquid Pattern Analysis (the interpretation of burn patterns on skin caused by a liquid), Friction Ridge Identification, and DNA Exhibit Collection.

            I have provided consultation and case reviews on investigations originating from North America, the United Kingdom, South East Asia and Australia.

J. Slemko Forensic Consulting in the News

        This photograph was taken with a tripod mounted 35mm camera and an optical light wand using available light.   The subject matter is the tissue fragments that can be observed 3 cm inside the barrel of the 45 cal. semi-automatic handgun.  The handgun was seized relevant to a double homicide investigation.  The tissue fragments located inside the barrel of the handgun were subsequently identified through DNA analysis as originating from one of the victims. 
        The tissue fragments found inside the barrel are consistent with a shot being fired at or near contact with the victim.

1997
- Winner, 1996 Edmonton Police Service "Essays for Excellence Contest," submission; "The Examination of Crime Scenes in the Era of DNA Polymerase Technology"

1999
- Winner, 1999 Edmonton Police Service "Essays for Excellence Contest," submission; "Victimizing the Victim" - The Efficient Delivery of Forensic Identification Services

1999
- Certified by the International Association for Identification as a Senior Crime Scene Analyst

2000
- Winner, 2000 Edmonton Police Service "Essays for Excellence Contest," submission; "Post Traumatic Stress and the Crime Scene Investigator"

2003
- Re-Certified by the International Association for Identification as a Senior Crime Scene Analyst

2004
- Certified by the the Deputy Solicitor General of Canada as a "Fingerprint Examiner" pursuant to Subsection 667(5) of the Criminal Code of Canada

2007
- Re-Certified by the International Association for Identification as a Senior Crime Scene Analyst

PUBLICATIONS:

Bloodstains on Fabric; The Effects of Droplet Velocity and Fabric Composition
"IABPA News, December , 2003"

The bloodstains that have been used as the background for this page are described as "Transfer" and "Passive" bloodstains.
"Transfer" bloodstains are generated when a wet blood source or blood contaminated object comes into contact with a previously non-contaminated   surface. The blood contaminated object in this pattern is easily recognizable as a hand.
"Passive" bloodstains are also observed in this  pattern. The "Passive" bloodstains are the large circular  stains observed between the fingers.  A "Passive" bloodstain is created by a wet blood source which is acted upon by the force of gravity only i.e. dripping blood.