Multiple transfers of particulates and their dissemination within contact networks.

The application of social network theory to understanding the nature and occurrence of multiple transfers of particulate evidence is demonstrated to be a useful means of identifying the prevalence of such transfers. Four experimental scenarios of increasing complexity empirically demonstrate that this trace particulate evidence exhibits behaviour in accordance with that previously identified for hair and fibre evidence. However, the utilisation of social network concepts is demonstrated to add valuable insights into the behaviour of this form of evidence and is shown to be a useful tool in highlighting the complexity of evidence dynamics. The identification of the networks within which trace evidence is transferred has implications for the robust interpretation of particulate evidence during the process of crime reconstruction.