- 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
Integrity
Home > Evidence Handling Procedures > Types of Evidence > Biological Evidence > Integrity
Mobile evidence-drying cabinet
The power of DNA testing is such that examination of biological items can produce very compelling evidence. However, attention must be paid to degradation, contamination, and safety issues.
Although DNA is chemically robust, it can be degraded by environmental factors such as moisture and sunlight. It is recommended that biological evidence be air dried as soon as possible and is always kept in paper packaging. The techniques used to develop DNA profiles are extremely sensitive. It is important to wear protective clothing (e.g., gloves and face masks) during collection and handling to prevent contamination from other biological factors, such as sweat and saliva.
