Footprints that change from turned-out to straight reveal when a thief has picked up a heavy stolen object and is carrying it away.
This chapter from Hans Gross's 19th century forensic handbook systematically analyzes how footprints reveal criminal identity and behavior. It breaks down walking patterns into measurable components like direction lines, foot angles, and step lengths, showing how these forensic details can indicate social class, physical conditions, and even attempts at deception.

As heard by us

A precise reading of trails, burden, and altered footprints, with no room for haste.

The pages treat footprints as evidence with real discipline, starting with the trail as a whole before narrowing to the single mark. Direction, burden, stance, and the angle of the feet all matter here, and each small distinction changes what the investigator can reasonably…

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want to read a trail before you trust a conclusion.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
Listen to the show on