Since the AR does not identify the foreign "birefringent material" or cellulose, I personally don't know enough to draw any conclusions. I can see the argument that the report doesn't include known specifics (perhaps at the request of investigators) as an aid to preserve the investigation. But I can also see the argument that perhaps the material(s), or its source(s), was unidentifiable due to inadequate quantities, or other reasons. JMO
I am curious, though. There are many materials with birefringent properties that also contain some form of cellulose. Paint, detergents, soaps, cosmetics, nail polish, industrial dust, etc. etc. etc. If whatever the ME found WAS identified (even partially), and we know it could have possibly been introduced via "digital penetration," than that seems like key evidence for profiling, at the very least. If it was paint that matched the paintbrush, versus nail polish, versus industrial dust...those clues might lead in completely different directions.
Just some amateur thoughts.
TL4S,
well observed.
Top of the list might be varnish or residue from the paintbrush handle, but which piece, i.e. missing or extant?I am curious, though. There are many materials with birefringent properties that also contain some form of cellulose.
If its something else, i.e. not connected with the paintbrush then we have potentially interesting forensic evidence?
The unknown regarding the paintbrush is why bother simply placing one piece back in the paint-tote and removing the other piece, where is the percentage in that?
You have to wonder how Lawrence Schiller knew what the materials composition was if the Coroner did not identify it as such?
Maybe this is all it is, e.g.
Perfect Murder, Perfect Town, Excerpt
The police would have to track down the origin of a small amount of cellulose that had been found in JonBenét’s vagina. *
* Cellulose is a carbohydrate of high molecular weight that is the chief constituent of the cell walls of plants. Raw cotton is 91 percent cellulose. Other important natural sources are flax, hemp, jute, straw, and wood
Steve Thomas in his book refers to a splinter
If this is the default position does it represent staging?
.