Physical evidence at a crime scene provides valuable clues. Evidence technology, such as cameras and fingerprint equipment, helps document and analyze evidence. Investigators look for hair, fibers, and tire marks, and use alternate light sources and fingerprint technology. Forensic laboratories use scientific evidence technology to test samples, including DNA analysis and material testing. Trained observation is still necessary.
Physical evidence gathered at a crime scene can offer investigators valuable clues. Evidence technology helps ensure that each type is properly documented and analyzed. Investigators and technicians can use everything from cameras to fingerprint equipment to find tiny bits of material at the scene. In the laboratory, chemistry, biological analysis, and specialized materials testing allow the forensic scientist to reveal the characteristics of evidence.
Hair, fibers, plants trapped in the underside of a car, and tire marks or footprints in the ground are things investigators look for. If detectives are trained to perform a thorough and methodical crime scene search, they can often make a solid case. The use of evidence technology helps preserve evidence, but is not a substitute for trained observation.
A digital camera is a vital proof technology that records the undisturbed scene. Tool marks in burglary cases, broken objects, or entry points and body placement can be documented. Cameras offer real-time guidance, and investigators can make audio observations during filming. Timestamps on videos or images show when they were taken.
Blood, body fluids and other liquids require testing technology that does not destroy them. Investigators and technicians typically use paper evidence bags to hold stained clothing or tissue. Paper bags are also used on the hands of a deceased when there is the possibility of traces of evidence. Plastic containers cause condensation which can compromise or destroy many types of evidence.
An alternate light source is a useful evidence technology that allows investigators to see latent fingerprints and biological material invisible to the naked eye. Often used with chemical reagents such as luminol, it enhances the ultraviolet light spectrum and causes tests to fluoresce. The samples and pictures can then show where a bloodstain may have been. Luminol destroys traces and is only used when other techniques have been exhausted.
Fingerprint technology is also widely used. Prints are lifted off a surface using brushes, powders, and clear tape. The images are then sent to specialized computers which perform comparisons with known samples in the print database. The computer can often score a hit within hours. Digital transmission of scanned or photographed prints allows for timely sharing of results.
Forensic laboratories use scientific evidence technology, such as mass spectrometers and gas chromatographs, to test samples. A piece of charred material from a suspected arson can be encased in a paint can and the air inside the can tested for accelerants released by the material. DNA analysis compares biological evidence to see if a biological sample might match a suspect. Materials, including duct tape, bullets, and paint, are lab tested to match characteristics to crime scenes.
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