DNA Evidence Collection Procedures

• NCJ Number: 209540
• Journal: Law and Order Volume: 53 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2005 Pages: 72-74
• Author(s): Laura Gahn
• Date Published: March 2005
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Training
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article briefly discusses the proper procedures in the collection and preservation of DNA evidence.

Abstract

Today, DNA evidence is a primary source of solving burglaries, rapes, homicides, car thefts, and narcotic crimes. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that law enforcement agencies understand and be trained on the proper collection and preservation of DNA evidence. If DNA evidence is handled improperly during storage, packaging, or handling, it can result in degradation or contamination of the DNA. This can cause evidence too unsuitable for DNA screening or testing. This article discusses the proper procedures in DNA evidence collection and preservation focusing on evidence items such as whole blood samples, bloodstains, semen, and clothing. In addition, guidelines in the shipping of evidence to laboratories for analysis are outlined. Law enforcement officials need to be properly trained on handling DNA evidence with education being the key.