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Collecting DNA Evidence at Property Crime Scenes

Integrity of Trace Evidence

Protection of trace evidence from loss or contamination is essential. One of the primary paths of contamination is from the collector to the evidence. The collector must ensure that no contaminate trace is deposited along with the evidence in question. This may include hair or fiber from the collector. To prevent contamination, crime scene personnel must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves and masks, and use trace-contaminant-free implements when collecting evidence.

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