Paint evidence is carefully packaged to preserve its integrity and prevent contamination.
Packaging Methods for Paint Evidence
The primary goal of packaging paint evidence is to ensure that it can be analyzed accurately in a lab. Proper packaging prevents the loss of small paint particles, keeps the evidence free from contamination, and maintains the chain of custody. Here's a breakdown of how this is done:
- Initial Collection: Paint evidence, which often comes in the form of flakes or chips, is first carefully collected without causing further damage.
- Folded Paper Evidence Fold: Small paint particles are placed in a paper evidence fold, which involves folding a piece of paper to create a small packet that is sealed. This helps to contain the evidence without sticking to the packaging material.
- Leak-proof Container: As indicated in the reference material, another suitable approach is to use a leak-proof container, such as a plastic sample jar or a pillbox.
- Secondary Container: The paper fold or the leak-proof container is then placed inside a larger container such as an envelope or another appropriate receptacle for submission. This provides an extra layer of protection.
- Sealing: The outer container should be sealed to prevent tampering, usually with evidence tape or tamper-evident seals. This seal is signed and dated to maintain the chain of custody.
- Labeling: Each evidence package is labeled with details such as the date, time, location collected, a case number and a description of the evidence. This ensures it's easily tracked and identified.
Summary of Packaging Steps
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Collection | Carefully collect paint flakes or chips without causing further damage. |
| 2. Primary Packaging | Place small paint particles into a folded paper evidence packet OR a leak-proof container (jar, pillbox). |
| 3. Secondary Packaging | Place the primary package inside a larger container like an envelope. |
| 4. Sealing | Seal the outer container with evidence tape and date and sign. |
| 5. Labeling | Label the package with the appropriate information. |
By following these packaging procedures, forensic scientists can accurately analyze paint evidence to aid in criminal investigations.
