Processing
DNA COLLECTION
For Wet Stains
Fill out evidence packaging and swab box prior to collection.
Don appropriate PPE to include gloves and a face mask.
Open a package of swabs. Do not add water to the swabs. While holding both of the swabs together, roll the cotton ends of the swabs in the stain to be collected until the tips of both swabs are covered.
Insert both swabs into the swab box and close. Insert the closed swab box into the evidence envelope and seal.
For Dry Stains
Fill out evidence packaging and swab box prior to collection.
Don appropriate PPE to include gloves and a face mask.
Open a package of swabs. Using sterile water, apply one drop of water to the tip of each swab. While holding the both of the swabs together, roll the cotton ends of the swabs in the stain to be collected until the tips of both swabs are covered.
Insert both swabs into the swab box and close. Insert the closed swab box into the evidence envelope and seal.
For Cuttings
Fill out evidence packaging prior to collection.
Don appropriate PPE to include gloves and a face mask.
If you have a stain on a large item that you cannot collect (ex. carpet, furniture, car seats), you can cut out and collect a portion of the stain. Using a sterile scalpel, cut an area of stain from the item for collection.
Packaging the cutting in an appropriate evidence container and seal the container.
For Buccal Swab Collection (DNA Standard)
Fill out evidence packaging and swab box prior to collection.
Don appropriate PPE to include gloves and a face mask.
Open a package of swabs. Do not apply additional water. While holding both of the swabs together, insert the swabs into the mouth of the individual you are collecting the sample from and rub the interior portion of the left and right cheek, swabbing the inside of the cheek ten times on each side.
Insert both swabs into the swab box and close. Insert the closed swab box into the evidence envelope and seal.
REFERENCES
Butler, John (2010). Fundamentals of Forensic DNA Typing. Elsevier.
Dutelle, Aric (2020). An Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Fish, Jacqueline et al (2014). Crime Scene Investigation. Routledge.
Fisher, Barry & Fisher, David (2012). Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation. CRC Press.
Gardner, Ross & Krouskup, Donna (2018). Practical Crime Scene Processing and Investigation, Third Edition. CRC Press.
Maloney, Michael & Housman, Donald (2014). Crime Scene Investigation Procedural Guide. CRC Press.
Ramirez, Christine & Parish-Fisher, Casie (2011). Crime Scene Processing and Investigation. CRC Press.
Williams, Rhonda & Kahn, Roger (2014). Forensic DNA Collection at Death Scenes. CRC Press.