Forensic Pocket Guide

Lab Processing

WET SURFACES

Non-Porous Surface Sequence

Inspect the surface for the presence of trace evidence and/or ridge detail.  Carefully collect any trace evidence observed.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Swab areas that have potential DNA present.  For more guidance on swabbing, refer to this resource: DNA Collection.

Prior to processing, use a forensic light source to inspect the surface of the item for trace evidence and/or latent print impressions.  For more guidance on what light source to utilize, refer to this resource: Forensic Light Sources.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Apply Sudan Black to the surface. Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Apply Small Particle Reagent to the surface. Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography and/or collect with a latent print collection technique.

Porous Surface Sequence

Inspect the surface for the presence of trace evidence and/or ridge detail.  Carefully collect any trace evidence observed. Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Swab areas that have potential DNA present.  For more guidance on swabbing, refer to this resource: DNA Collection.

Prior to processing, use a forensic light source to inspect the surface of the item for trace evidence and/or latent print impressions.  For more guidance on what light source to utilize, refer to this resource: Forensic Light Sources.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Apply Oil Red O to the surface. Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Apply Physical Developer to the surface. Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.