BrittneyDahlhauser_CJ370_Assessment5

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1 Processing and Collecting Trace Evidence Brittney Dahlhauser CJ370M5: Processing and Collecting Trace Evidence Dr Antoinette Vicks March 17, 2024

2 The scientific approach to identifying and collecting various types of trace, blood, and other biological evidence plays a crucial role in resolving criminal investigations. Crime scene investigators use a systematic and meticulous method to gather evidence that can provide valuable insight into a crime. By examining and analyzing this evidence, investigators can piece together the events that transpired at a crime scene, identify suspects, and ultimately bring justice to victims. In this essay, we will delve into the scientific methods used to collect and analyze trace and biological evidence, provide detailed examples of the clues that can be gleaned from such evidence, discuss the procedures that must be followed during the evidence collection process, and explore how a crime scene investigator would defend their research in a court of law. When it comes to identifying and collecting trace and biological evidence, crime scene investigators rely on a combination of scientific techniques and tools. These can include but are not limited to DNA analysis, blood spatter analysis, fingerprinting, and trace element analysis. Each of these methods provides unique insights into a crime scene and can help investigators establish a timeline of events, identify potential suspects, and corroborate witness testimonies and statements. For example, DNA analysis can link a suspect to a crime scene through biological material left behind, such as blood, skin cells, or hair. Blood spatter analysis, on the other hand, can provide crucial information about the dynamics of a crime, such as the direction and force of an impact, the number of assailants, and even the type of weapon used (National Institute of Justice, n.d). By examining and analyzing trace and biological evidence, crime scene investigators can uncover vital clues that can unravel a criminal investigation. For instance, a single strand of hair found at a crime scene can provide DNA evidence that links a suspect to the victim or the scene

3 of the crime. Similarly, tiny blood droplets on a surface can indicate the presence of an injured party and help reconstruct the sequence of events that took place. By carefully documenting, collecting, and analyzing these types of evidence, investigators can build a compelling case that can stand up in a court of law (Hau Forensics, 2019). The procedures followed by crime scene investigators during the evidence collection process are critical to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of scientific results obtained from forensic analysis. First and foremost, investigators must secure and preserve the entire crime scene to prevent contamination or tampering with evidence. This involves setting up a perimeter, restricting access to the area from unauthorized personnel, and wearing appropriate protective gear to avoid contaminating evidence with their own DNA or other biological material. Once the scene is secured, investigators carefully document and photograph the area, taking note of all evidence present, including trace materials, bloodstains, and biological fluids (National Institute of Justice, n.d). In addition to documenting the crime scene, investigators must follow established protocols for collecting and preserving different types of evidence. For example, DNA evidence must be collected using sterile swabs and stored in proper containers to prevent degradation. Bloodstains must be collected using clean tools, such as sterile cotton swabs or clean paper, to prevent contamination. All evidence must be properly labeled, packaged, and documented to maintain the chain of custody and ensure its admissibility in court. Following these procedures meticulously is essential for obtaining reliable scientific results from forensic analysis (Schiro, n.d). In a court of law, a crime scene investigator would defend their research by presenting the evidence collected, the analysis conducted, and the conclusions drawn based on scientific

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4 principles. The investigator would be expected to explain the methods used to collect and analyze the evidence, including any specialized techniques employed, such as DNA analysis or blood spatter analysis. They would also need to demonstrate that the evidence was handled and preserved in accordance with established protocols to ensure its integrity and reliability (Wells, n.d). Moreover, the investigator would need to show that their analysis of the evidence was conducted objectively and without bias, following established scientific procedures. This might involve presenting the results of comparative analysis, statistical probabilities, or expert testimony to support their findings. By providing a clear and coherent explanation of their research methodology and findings, the crime scene investigator can strengthen the credibility of their evidence and increase the likelihood of a successful prosecution (Wells, n.d). In conclusion, the scientific approach used to identify and collect trace, blood, and other biological evidence is a critical component of resolving criminal investigations. By carefully examining and analyzing this evidence, crime scene investigators can uncover vital clues that can lead to the apprehension and conviction of suspects. Through meticulous evidence collection procedures, adherence to scientific protocols, and rigorous defense of their research in court, investigators can ensure the accuracy and reliability of their findings. By relying on sound scientific principles and teamwork, crime scene investigators can make significant strides in solving crimes and delivering justice to victims and their families.

5 References Crime Scene and DNA Basics for Forensic Analysts | Types of evidence | National Institute of Justice . (n.d.). National Institute of Justice. https://nij.ojp.gov/nij-hosted- online-training-courses/crime-scene-and-dna-basics-forensic-analysts/evidence-crime- scene/types-evidence Crime Scene Collection Techniques Information Page . (n.d.). https://www.all-about- forensic-science.com/crime-scene-collection-techniques.html Hau Forensics. (2019, February 11). Biological Trace Evidence - HAU Forensics . https://www.hauforensics.com/biological-trace-evidence/#:~:text=Trace%20evidence %20materials%20commonly%20collected%20from%20crime%20scenes%20typically %20consist%20of%3A&text=Body%20Fluids%3A%20blood%2C%20semen%2C,sweat %20and%20other%20excretion%20products.&text=Body%20Tissues%3A%20hair%2C %20nails%2C,skin%20flakes%2C%20teeth%20and%20bone. Schiro, G. (n.d.). Collection and Preservation of Evidence, Part III . https://www.crime- scene-investigator.net/evidenc3.html Understanding DNA Evidence: A Guide for Victim Service Providers . (n.d.). https://ovc.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh226/files/publications/bulletins/dna_4_2001/ dna14_4_01.html Wells, D. (n.d.). Testifying in court as a forensic expert . https://www.crime-scene- investigator.net/testifying-in-court-as-a-forensic-expert.html What Every Investigator and Evidence Technician Should Know About DNA Evidence | Secure a Crime Scene from Contamination | National Institute of Justice . (n.d.). National Institute of Justice. https://nij.ojp.gov/nij-hosted-online-training-courses/what-every-

6 investigator-and-evidence-technician-should-know/officer-responsibilities/personal- protection-contamination/secure

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