Fiber evidence is meticulously packaged to preserve its integrity and prevent contamination or loss. The key is to use appropriate containers that are correctly sized for the evidence being collected.
Proper packaging ensures that trace fibers remain intact from the crime scene or source until they reach the forensic laboratory for analysis.
Best Practices for Packaging Fiber Evidence
Packaging fiber evidence involves selecting the right type of container and ensuring the evidence is securely sealed. According to standard protocols, including the provided reference, samples should be placed into appropriately sized containers. This prevents small fibers from being lost or damaged within an overly large package.
Suitable Containers
Several types of containers are recommended for packaging fiber evidence:
- Vials: Excellent for containing small amounts of loose fibers.
- Metal or Cardboard Pillboxes: Provide a secure and rigid enclosure for small items with attached fibers or collected fibers.
- Paper Bindles: A folded paper packet used to hold small amounts of trace evidence, often then placed inside an envelope for added security.
It is crucial to avoid putting very small items into very large envelopes directly, as this increases the risk of loss or damage.
Materials to Avoid
One critical consideration is the material of the container itself:
- Plastic should not be used for the packaging of small/loose trace evidence due to static electricity. Static electricity can cause small fibers to cling to the plastic, making them difficult to remove and potentially leading to loss of evidence.
By following these guidelines, forensic investigators can ensure that fiber evidence is collected and transported in a manner that maintains its evidentiary value for subsequent analysis.
