- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- Introduction
- Objectives
- AFTE Knowledge and Ability Factors
- Types of Evidence
- Associative Evidence
- The Crime Scene
- Evidence Submission
- Laboratory Evidence Handling
- Case Tracking Within the Laboratory
- Firearm and Toolmark Examination Considerations
- Selected Bibliography
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
Introduction
Home > Evidence Handling Procedures > Introduction
The handling of physical evidence covers a wide variety of activities from the crime scene to the courtroom. In some jurisdictions, this can extend to the period after trial, including the destruction or disposition of evidence.
This module consists of several topics describing the handling of evidence; the most common types of evidence that may be encountered are described. Specific handling procedures for firearms-related evidence are provided.
The information presented in this module is general and laboratory protocols should be followed whenever handling evidence.
