Trace Evidence Scrapings: A Valuable Source of DNA?

• NCJ Number: 218803
• Author(s): Stacy L. Stouder; Kimberly J. Reubush; Deborah L. Hobson; Jenifer L. Smith
• Date Published: October 2001
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: US Dept of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: From Forensic Science Communications, V 3, N 4, October 2001; downloaded June 12, 2007.

Annotation

This study explored whether trace evidence collected debris could provide sufficient quantity and quality to enable DNA identification.

Abstract

The results indicated that trace evidence debris collected from a crime scene could potentially have sufficient quantity and quality to enable positive identification through forensic DNA analysis. The study consisted of FBI Laboratory personnel wearing T-shirts and hosiery for a period of time. The T-shirts and hosiery were then scraped for trace evidence. The scrapings were collected in pillboxes and were then swabbed with applicators moistened with sterile water. The applicator samples were processed alongside of a friction swab of the item. The analysis focused on comparing the amount of DNA obtained from the trace evidence scrapings with the amount of DNA obtained from a friction swab of the item. Samples were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the AmpFISTR Profiler Plus Amplification Kit. The samples were then examined to assess whether the trace scrapings were sufficient to positively identify the wearer. Research is currently being conducted on the possibility of DNA carryover in washing machines during the laundering process in an effort to explain the presence of cohabitants’ DNA on items of clothing. Table, figures, references