| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Occupation: | Forensic Knot Analyst | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Qualifications: | BSc, CEng, MIGKT, MFSSoc, MIMC
| Explanation of | Qualifications: Bachelor of Science | Chartered Engineer International Guild of Knot Tyers Member of the Forensic Science Society Member of the Institute of Management Consultants Address: |
Lyncourt Lodge |
Middle Lincombe Road Torquay Devon TQ1 2NE (View Location Map) (View Aerial Photo) Office Telephone: | 01803 212818 | Mobile: | 07717 885435 | Fax: | 01803 212818 | Email: |
(). | Email to Fax: | () |
|  : www.forensic-knots.co.uk |
Article: | 'The Guild of Knot Tyers' (history and outline of forensic activity) | Press Article: | 'Spotlight on Experts' (National Crime Faculty Journal, 1999) | Google: | Search Google UK | Testimonials: | Click here | Legal references: |
(none at present) | Areas of Expertise: |
KNOTTING :- | - analysis of knots and rope used in strangulation, hanging ligatures, binding of limbs and/or strangling or disabling an individual - 'suicide or murder?' investigations - death in police custody investigations - knot analysis for knots and bindings used in recreational activities (e.g. climbing, sailing, fishing, boating, etc.) - also those used in commercial seafaring and fishing activities - experience in defining knot characteristics and comparisons with other evidence, and to assess likely involvement of specific trades - assessment of urgency of tying knots, the skills involved and the personal traits or habits evident in the manner of knot tying BACKGROUND INFORMATION - KNOTTING :- Mike Lucas is a knot specialist who has been involved in knotting and cordage for over 30 years. After initially gaining practical experience of tying a variety of knots in the field of sailing and other recreational activities, about 15 years ago he decided to apply this capability in the analysis of knots used in crime. Since that time he has been involved in over 25 criminal cases, providing reports and evidence to the Police (CID and Scenes of Crime Officers), prosecution and defence lawyers, HM Prison Authorities, Crown Prosecution Service, Coroners, Pathologists, Forensic Science Laboratories and the National Crime Faculty. Careful analysis of knots and bindings used in a variety of suicides and murders has led to a comprehensive knowledge of the characteristics which contribute to an individual’s 'knot profile'. In many cases, background and experience of the knot tyer can be reconciled with examined evidence, so as to provide meaningful comparison and links for identification purposes. Mike Lucas has studied the art, craft and science of knots for many years, and his interest in teaching knot-tying skills has led to a deep understanding of tying characteristics, as exhibited by people from a variety of backgrounds. He is a member of the International Guild of Knot Tyers, the worldwide forum for rope workers, riggers and other exponents of knotting, whose members have pioneered the systematic preservation and identification of cordage clues from scenes of crime (see 'Article' link, above). A summary of Mike’s forensic work was written up in 'Spotlight', the journal of the National Crime Faculty (see 'Press Article' link, above). MARINE AND YACHTING :- - yacht brokerage - yacht design and build, plus technical aspects of hull, rig and equipment - yacht construction, maintenance and repairs - yacht, dinghy and cruiser racing - marine consultancy (specifically concerning yachts) - technical advice on engine, rig, sails and interior equipment - supply and installation of deck gear - valeting and preparation for sale - winter refits, teak decks and cockpit seating replacement - engine and general maintenance, yacht care and damage repair - insurance and finance BACKGROUND INFORMATION - MARINE AND YACHTING :- Mike Lucas is an independent consultant to the marine trade with over thirty years experience of yachts, boats rigging, ropes and associated equipment. He runs his own yacht brokerage, Mike Lucas Yachting Ltd (web site). Av. no. of new instructions a year : 5 No. of reports written in last 3 years : 15 Geographical area of work : All of UK Law Society: |
| |||||||
