NCJ Number
95271
Date Published
1984
Length
138 pages
Annotation
These guidelines explain the legally acceptable and practical procedures for collecting, preserving, and handling physical evidence.
Abstract
The manual aims to make crime scene investigators familiar with recent technological and scientific developments being used in modern crime laboratories and to explain the capabilities and limitations of the crime laboratory. Introductory discussions outline the services of the FBI Identification Division, the services of the FBI Laboratory and Technical Services Divisions, and the agencies to which these services are available. Guidelines on conducting a crime scene search include additional information on a search of a bombing scene. The services provided by the engineering, identification, and latent fingerprint sections of the FBI ae outlined. Fifteen types of laboratory examinations conducted by the FBI are explained, together with their uses, information provided, limitations, and requirements for sample collection. An outline of the procedures to use in collecting and preserving physical evidence covers the request for laboratory assistance, the shipment of evidence, the request for examination, report forms, the handling of hazardous materials, identification and packaging, and the proper sealing of evidence. Diagrams and charts are included.