DNA Collection Protocol 1 Introduction: The Purpose Of The D

DNA Collection Protocol 1 Introduction: The purpose of the DNA Collection

The DNA Collection Protocol aims to establish standardized procedures for collecting, packaging, documenting, storing, submitting, and disposing of animal DNA samples—specifically from alleged dogfighting dogs. This protocol ensures integrity and traceability of evidence, facilitating forensic investigations related to animal cruelty. Proper collection methods are vital to prevent contamination, preserve sample quality, and ensure admissibility in legal proceedings.

The collection process involves acquiring at least three buccal swabs from each seized Pit Bull-type dog. These samples are typically collected during the examination conducted by a forensic veterinarian at a temporary shelter. In some cases, field collection may be necessary, requiring specialized handling techniques. Cytology brushes are used for sampling, with all personnel handling them required to wear gloves to prevent cross-contamination. The process involves swabbing the inside of the cheek while the dog is precluded from eating or drinking for at least 20 minutes prior to sampling to ensure optimal sample quality.

Post-collection, the brushes should be air-dried and packaged carefully. Swabs from different animals must never be packaged together to maintain evidence integrity. The samples are then placed in their original packaging, labeled with critical information such as case number, item number, agency, collection location, date, time, description, and collector's initials. The exterior of the package should clearly indicate the number of samples, and evidence tape marked with initials and date secures the package to prevent tampering.

The documentation process includes logging each evidence item into the animal's medical evidence log, ensuring accurate record-keeping. Evidence must be handed to an evidence custodian daily and ultimately transferred to the ASPCA Veterinary Forensic Science Center for long-term storage. The lead veterinarian determines whether to submit samples for testing, adhering to the Veterinary Forensic Services Evidence Submission Protocol. Disposal of the samples follows the directions of the primary agency, in accordance with established disposal protocols.

Paper For Above instruction

The proper collection and handling of DNA evidence, particularly buccal swabs from dogs suspected of involvement in illegal dogfighting activities, are critical to maintaining the integrity of forensic evidence. This protocol emphasizes meticulous techniques in sample collection, packaging, labeling, documentation, storage, and disposal, ensuring admissibility in court and supporting enforcement actions against animal cruelty. Forensic veterinarians play a crucial role in collecting high-quality samples with minimal contamination risks, following strict hygienic procedures, and accurately documenting each step for chain-of-custody purposes.

Accurate and careful packaging prevents cross-contamination between samples and preserves DNA integrity. Using double swab boxes and properly labeled containers ensures traceability. Proper sealing with evidence tape marked with initials and dates offers security during transportation and storage. Documentation, including logging each sample in an evidence log, is necessary to maintain chain-of-custody records, which are essential for legal proceedings.

Storage at a secure facility like the ASPCA Veterinary Forensic Science Center ensures the longevity and quality of DNA samples for future testing. The decision to submit samples is made by the lead forensic veterinarian, aligning with established testing protocols to combat animal cruelty and support investigations. Proper disposal under agency directives prevents contamination and preserves the chain of evidence integrity.

This protocol underscores the importance of standardized processes in forensic evidence collection relating to animal cruelty investigations, ensuring that evidence is reliable, secured, and legally defensible. Uniform procedures across agencies foster cooperation, credibility, and efficacy in prosecuting offenders in dogfighting cases, which remain a serious concern for animal welfare and public safety.

References

• American Veterinary Medical Association. (2018). Guidelines for forensic veterinary medicine. AVMA.https://www.avma.org
• Fitzgerald, M. (2019). Evidence collection in animal cruelty cases. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 64(2), 434-440.
• Johnson, R., & Smith, A. (2020). Forensic DNA analysis: Standards and protocols. Forensic Science International, 305, 110019.
• Peterson, L. (2021). Crime scene investigation procedures in veterinary forensics. Veterinary Forensic Science, 4(1), 25-37.
• U.S. Department of Justice. (2017). Forensic evidence collection procedures. DOJ Publication.https://www.justice.gov
• Vohra, A., & Patel, S. (2022). Handling and packaging of biological evidence. Forensic Science Review, 34(1), 55-70.
• Winters, P. (2018). Chain of custody in forensic evidence. Journal of Criminal Justice, 59, 1-8.
• Humphreys, M., & Rodriguez, P. (2016). Best practices in forensic sample storage. Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series, 5, e494-e496.
• National Animal Cruelty Investigation Training Academy. (2019). Forensic evidence collection guide. NAICAT.https://naicat.org
• Wetzel, E. (2017). Animal cruelty evidence protocols. Springer Publishing.