Evidence Collection And Packaging

Question 1

Evidence

Answer 1

Information; whether in the form of personal testimony, language of documents or material (physical) objects

Question 2

Categories of Physical evidence

Answer 2

origin, composition or method of collection

Question 3

Physical evidence can be broadly grouped into:

Answer 3

1. Biological : Evidence from living items
2. Chemical : Evidence with identifiable chemicals present
   3.Patterned: Evidence with pattern or predictable pattern of appearance eg: fingerprint
3. Trace : Small sized evidence, easily overlooked or not recognized.eg: fiber
4. Latent : Not readily identified
5. Digital

Question 4

Importance of physical evidence

Answer 4

Analysis of physical evidence can determine/ identify/ provide:
• Corpus delicti
 The evidence is used to determine if a crime has taken place.
• Modus operandi
 A criminal’s repeat behaviour
• Investigative leads for detectives

• Lochard’s principle
 Transfer of evidence by contact
• Disproving or supporting victim/suspect/witness statement.
• Identification of suspects/victims/crime scene location

Question 5

Importance of evidence collection and packaging

Answer 5

1. Protect evidence against:
   Loss
   Deterioration
   Contamination
   Cross-transfer
    (victim to suspect, suspect to victim, item to item)
2. Protect personnel from hazards Biohazards
   Accidental weapon discharges Sharps
   Exposure to toxins

Question 6

Commonly used containers

Answer 6

1. Arson Evidence & Solid material Evidence collection container
2. Evidence jars
3. Evidence tubes
4. Liquid sampling kit
5. Metal cans
6. Disposable SharpSafetyTM Sharps Container.