MODERN METHODS OF WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION ANALYSIS FOR FORENSIC BALLISTICS RESEARCH

Abstract

The article provides a comprehensive study of the theoretical foundations and applied aspects of forensic ballistics examinations, which are one of the key areas of modern forensic practice. Forensic ballistics is viewed as a complex branch of specialised knowledge that combines elements of technical expertise, trace evidence, mechanics, forensic physics and information technology. The study systematises the main functional tasks performed by a ballistics expert in the process of establishing the essential circumstances of a criminal offence. The author outlines the essence and content of classification, identification, diagnostic and situational analysis. Considerable attention is paid to the comparative analysis of traditional and modern methods of studying forensic ballistics objects, in particular, microscopy of traces on bullet casings and bullets, digital trace methods, the use of three-dimensional scanning and automated computer identification systems such as IBIS and Evofinder. The practical functioning of the system of forensic ballistics research in Ukraine is also considered: the stages of examination, including the procedures of inspection, fixation, seizure, description and laboratory analysis are outlined. Attention is focused on the problematic aspects of material and technical support, in particular, the obsolescence of equipment, the lack of an appropriate software package and limited access to international databases. The author substantiates the need for systemic reform of the industry by modernising the laboratory infrastructure, creating a unified national register of ballistic traces, developing unified methodological approaches and expanding international partnerships. The materials of the article may be useful for scholars, investigators, experts, law school professors, and law enforcement officers involved in the investigation of crimes related to firearms trafficking.