How to Collect Hair & Fiber Evidence at a Crime Scene

Summary

This video demonstrates the proper techniques for searching and collecting hairs and fibers in forensic investigations. The process uses oblique lighting to help locate the evidence, followed by various collection methods such as using a drug fold or sticky notes. The video emphasizes the importance of careful handling to avoid contamination, proper documentation, and secure storage of the evidence. The goal is to ensure the integrity of the samples for analysis, helping forensic professionals effectively recover crucial evidence in a controlled and systematic manner.

Takeaways

• 😀 Oblique lighting is a key technique used for searching and recovering hairs and fibers. The light is applied at an angle to help identify them.
• 😀 Vacuum cleaners are not recommended for collecting hairs and fibers as they can disturb older evidence. It's important to focus on more recent evidence.
• 😀 There are various methods to collect hairs and fibers, including using forceps or gloves. Always ensure to change between evidence collections to avoid cross-contamination.
• 😀 A common method for collecting evidence is using a druggist or pharmacy fold. This involves folding paper three ways to contain the evidence securely.
• 😀 It's important to document the origin of the evidence. A note with the information about where the evidence came from should be included on the collection fold.
• 😀 Photography is crucial during evidence collection. Always photograph the evidence in its original location, and include a scale if necessary.
• 😀 When folding the collection fold, be careful not to allow the hairs or fibers to escape. Ensure the fold is secure to preserve the evidence.
• 😀 An alternative collection method is using sticky notes. These notes should be used from a clean package to avoid contamination.
• 😀 Sticky notes are effective for picking up hairs by gently placing the sticky portion on the fibers. Care should be taken not to crush the root of the hair during collection.
• 😀 After collecting the evidence with a sticky note, it should be placed in a druggist fold for further handling and transportation.
• 😀 Once the evidence is collected, it’s essential to fill out documentation detailing how and where the evidence was collected, and then seal the collection to maintain integrity.

Q & A

What is the purpose of using oblique lighting in hair and fiber collection?

Oblique lighting is used to shine light at a specific angle to help identify hairs and fibers on a surface, making them easier to spot during a search.

Why are vacuum cleaners generally avoided in hair and fiber collection?

Vacuum cleaners are avoided because they can pick up hairs and fibers from previous cases, making it difficult to focus on evidence from the current investigation.

What are some common methods for collecting hairs and fibers?

Two common methods for collecting hairs and fibers include using a druggist’s fold or a pharmacy fold, and using a sticky note.

How should hairs and fibers be stored after collection?

Hairs and fibers should be placed in a druggist’s fold or a sticky note, sealed carefully to prevent loss, and stored in an envelope with appropriate labeling for identification.

What is a druggist’s fold and how is it used for collection?

A druggist’s fold is a method where the evidence is folded three times into a small packet. It ensures that the collected hairs and fibers are secured and protected.

What should be done before or during the collection process with a druggist’s fold?

Before or during the collection, ensure that the fold has information written on it, such as where the evidence was found and any other relevant details.

Why is it important to change gloves or tools between collections?

Changing gloves or tools between collections prevents cross-contamination and ensures the integrity of each piece of evidence is maintained.

What precautions should be taken when collecting hair with sticky notes?

When using sticky notes, it's important not to press down too hard on the root of the hair to avoid damaging it. The hair should be gently lifted and placed on the sticky part of the note.

How should the collected hair and fiber be handled after using sticky notes?

Once the hair is collected using a sticky note, it should be carefully folded and placed inside a druggist’s fold, sealed, and labeled to prevent contamination or loss.

What should be done if scales are needed in photographic documentation?

If scales are needed for photographic documentation, they should be included in the photograph to provide context for the size and location of the collected hairs or fibers.