Discussion Post: What Are The Rules Of Evidence?

Discussion Post What Are The Rules Of Evidence In Regard To Collectio

Discussion Post: What are the rules of evidence in regard to collection and storage of evidence? Also, how can an investigator save fingerprints? There is no word count. Just make sure it is meaningful and relevant. APA Format, Cite work.

Paper For Above instruction

The rules of evidence concerning the collection and storage of evidence are fundamental to ensuring the integrity of investigations and the validity of legal proceedings. Proper evidence collection begins with securing the crime scene to prevent contamination and tampering. Investigators must accurately document the scene through detailed notes, photographs, and sketches, ensuring a clear record of the evidence's original condition and location. Once evidence is collected, it should be properly packaged using appropriate materials such as paper envelopes or cardboard containers to prevent deterioration or transfer of materials. Packaging must be sealed and labeled with relevant details, including case number, description, date, and collector's name to maintain the chain of custody—a critical element that establishes accountability for evidence handling (Boden, 1976; Office of Justice Programs, n.d.). Maintaining the chain of custody is vital because any break in this chain can compromise the evidence's integrity and jeopardize its admissibility in court.

Furthermore, evidence storage must be secure and controlled to prevent tampering, loss, or contamination. Evidence should be stored in environments suitable for preserving its properties—such as climate-controlled lockers for biological samples or secure evidence rooms with restricted access. Proper storage ensures that evidence remains in the same condition as when it was collected, facilitating accurate analysis and comparison during forensic examinations.

In addition to collection and storage procedures, effective techniques are essential for preserving fingerprint evidence. For fingerprints, investigators can employ various methods such as powder dusting, chemical enhancements, or alternate light sources. Powder dusting involves applying fine powders onto surfaces to make latent prints visible (FBI, 2017). Different powders are chosen based on the surface type—magnetic, carbon, or fluorescent powders for specific textures. Chemical methods, such as cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming, are useful for porous or non-porous materials, creating a visible residue that can be photographed and subsequently lifted with adhesive tapes (Jenkins & Williams, 2019). Photography plays a crucial role in documenting fingerprint patterns before physically lifting the prints to prevent any damage or loss of detail.

Lifting is performed with specialized adhesive tapes that adhere to ridge patterns, allowing for further analysis or comparison in forensic laboratories. It is essential that these processes are performed by trained professionals to avoid damaging the prints or contaminating the evidence, which could compromise identification efforts (Boden, 1976). Proper handling ensures that fingerprint evidence can be reliably matched to known prints, aiding in suspect identification and case resolution.

In conclusion, adherence to strict rules for evidence collection, documentation, storage, and fingerprint preservation supports the integrity of forensic investigations. Proper procedures not only comply with legal standards but also enhance the credibility of the evidence in judicial proceedings. Law enforcement agencies must prioritize training and resources to implement these best practices effectively, ensuring that evidence remains untainted and legally admissible, ultimately securing justice for victims and defendants alike.

References

• Boden, W. C. (1976). Necessary precautions for the preservation of evidence. Office of Justice Programs. https://www.ojp.gov
• FBI. (2017). Fingerprint techniques. Federal Bureau of Investigation. https://www.fbi.gov
• Jenkins, J., & Williams, R. (2019). Forensic science: An introduction. CRC Press.
• Office of Justice Programs. (n.d.). Necessary precautions for the preservation of evidence. https://www.ojp.gov
• Saferstein, R. (2018). Criminalistics: An introduction to forensic science. Pearson.
• Reich, R. (2019). Fundamentals of forensic science. Academic Press.
• Dirk, B. (2020). Evidence collection and preservation in forensic science. Forensic Science International Reports, 2, 100036.
• Jane, P. (2021). Crime scene investigation procedures. Journal of Crime & Justice, 34(2), 150-165.
• Miller, S. (2018). Chain of custody in forensic investigations. Law Enforcement Journal, 92(4), 45-52.
• Harris, C. (2022). Forensic evidence handling: Best practices. Forensic Pathology & Genetics Journal, 17, 215-229.