Evidence collection and chain of

custody.
&
Innovative techniques in Forensic
Science
Understanding Evidence Collection

Definition of Evidence Purpose in Legal Importance of

Collection Investigations Evidence Integrity
Evidence collection is the The main purpose of Preserving the integrity of
systematic process of evidence collection is to the evidence is crucial, as
gathering physical, establish facts in a case, any contamination or
biological, and digital ensuring that evidence is mishandling can
evidence from crime admissible in court and can compromise its reliability
scenes to support legal be reliably linked to the and affect the outcome of
investigations. investigation. legal proceedings.
 4 Core Principles

1. Preservation of Evidence 2. Thorough Documentation

Preserving evidence in its original state is Every piece of evidence must be clearly
crucial to ensure its reliability in legal documented, including details like the
proceedings. This involves careful time, date, and location of collection to
handling and storage. maintain a clear record.

3. Proper Labeling 4. Contamination Prevention

Each item of evidence should be To prevent contamination, investigators
properly labeled with unique identifiers must use protective gear and follow
to avoid mix-ups and ensure accurate strict protocols during the collection and
tracking throughout the investigation. storage of evidence.
Standard
Are guided by federal, state, and local laws, and
Operating follow standards set by organizations like the
Procedures (SOPs) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), National
Institute of Justice (NIJ), and the Scientific
for evidence Working Group on Imaging Technologies (SWGIT).
collection.
Critical to ensuring
consistency, reliability, and
legal admissibility in
forensic investigations.
1. Initial Scene Assessment
First Responders: Secure the scene to prevent
contamination or loss of evidence.
Preliminary Walkthrough: Conducted by the lead
investigator to understand the scene layout and
determine immediate evidence collection priorities.

2. Documentation
Photography/Videography: Before collecting any evidence,
the scene is photographed and/or videotaped from multiple
angles to capture the overall context and specific details.
Sketching: A rough sketch of the scene, noting the position of
evidence items relative to fixed points.
Notes: Detailed written notes by all personnel involved,
documenting observations, actions taken, and evidence
collected.
Evidence Collection
Physical Evidence: Collected using gloves, forceps, or other tools to avoid
contamination. Each item is placed in separate, properly labeled
containers.
Biological Evidence: Swabs or other tools are used to collect samples of
blood, saliva, or other fluids, typically stored in sterile containers.
Trace Evidence: Collected using adhesive lifters, vacuum devices, or
specialized tweezers. Collected material is stored in appropriate containers.

Labeling and Packaging

Labeling: Each piece of evidence is labeled with a unique
identifier, including the date, time, collector’s name, location,
and a brief description.
Sealing: Evidence is sealed with tamper-evident tape and
signed/initialed by the collector to ensure chain of custody.
Packaging: Specific guidelines for packaging evidence to
prevent degradation or damage.
Evidence Preservation
Environmental Control: Biological evidence is often refrigerated or
frozen to prevent degradation, and electronics, may require climate-
controlled environments.
Long-term Storage: in secured facilities, in conditions that prevent
damage or contamination over time.

Transportation
Chain of Custody Forms: Completed and signed by each person
who handles the evidence, ensuring that the transfer of evidence is
documented at every stage.
Secured Transportation: Evidence is transported in secured
containers, often accompanied by law enforcement to prevent
tampering or loss.

Submission to Lab
Submission Forms: Detailed forms provide lab
essential information for analysis.
Lab Receipt: The receiving lab documents the
condition of the evidence upon receipt, noting any
discrepancies or concerns.
Chain of Custody • The chain of custody is a critical process
that ensures the integrity of evidence
Basics collected during an investigation.
• It involves documenting every individual
who handles the evidence, along with the
time and date of each transfer or analysis.
• Maintaining an unbroken chain of custody is
essential to prevent any alterations to the
evidence, which could compromise its
reliability in court.
• Proper chain of custody practices reinforce
the authenticity of evidence, making it
more likely to be accepted in legal
proceedings.
• Failure to maintain a proper chain of
custody can lead to questions regarding
the evidence's validity and its admissibility in
court.
Significance of Chain of Custody

• Ensures evidence presented is unaltered and authentic.

Critical Role
• Establishes reliability for juries and judges during trials.
in Legal
• A broken chain can lead to evidence being deemed
Proceedings inadmissible.

• O.J. Simpson trial highlighted chain of custody failures

leading to doubt.
Impact of
• The Casey Anthony case raised concerns over evidence
High-Profile handling integrity.
Cases • The Anthony Sowell case showed how mishandled evidence
affected outcomes.
Modern Challenges in Chain of Custody: Digital Evidence

Digital evidence includes emails, social

media posts, digital photographs, and files
stored on computers or mobile devices. Special techniques such as write-blockers
are essential to prevent any changes to the
original data during collection.
• It is prone to alteration and requires
stringent handling protocols. Data recovery tools are often utilized to
retrieve deleted files without altering existing
• The nature of digital data complicates
data, ensuring reliable evidence.
evidence preservation.
Robust documentation of digital evidence
• Digital files can be easily copied, handling is necessary for admissibility.
making tracking original evidence
Specialized tools are needed to verify the
challenging.
authenticity of digital files.
• Ensuring security during data transfer is
Training in digital forensics is crucial for
critical to maintain integrity. personnel involved in evidence handling.
 Blockchain Technology in Forensics

It is a secure digital record that keeps all transactions, making it

Immutable
impossible to alter past entries without consensus from the
Record Keeping network, ensuring evidence integrity.

The complex mathematical codes of blockchain enhance the

Enhanced security of digital evidence by protecting it from unauthorized
Security access and tampering, ensuring authenticity throughout the
chain of custody.

It creates a transparent audit trail for digital evidence,

Audit Trail allowing forensic experts to track every transfer and
modification, which is crucial for legal proceedings.

The use blockchain in forensics builds trust and improves the

Trust and
credibility of digital evidence in court, with records that can
Verification be independently confirmed.
Blockchain is becoming common practice as an extra layer of security
and traceability on top of traditional chain of custody procedures.

Blockchain forensics was crucial to the trial of

Ross Ulbricht, founder of the infamous Silk Road
marketplace. But in the Bitcoin Fog case, the
defense has pulled this investigative technique
into the spotlight, effectively putting crypto
tracing on trial in place of their client.
(www.wired.com)

blockchaininthecourts
PDF (www.ncsc.org)
 International Guidelines and Standards

Consistency in Evidence Global Cooperation Integrity of Forensic

Handling Evidence
Harmonized guidelines Standardized procedures Establishing universal
ensure that evidence is facilitate international standards helps maintain
collected, preserved, and cooperation in criminal the integrity and reliability
analyzed uniformly, investigations, allowing of forensic evidence,
reducing discrepancies in forensic evidence to be which is crucial for legal
forensic practices across recognized and utilized admissibility and public
different jurisdictions. across borders. trust.
1. O.J. Simpson Case 2. Ross Ulbricht (Silk Road) Case
The New York Times - The O.J. Simpson FBI Press Release on Silk Road: The official
Trial: This comprehensive archive press release from the FBI provides an
includes news articles, analysis, and overview of the Silk Road takedown and
timelines from the trial. Ross Ulbricht's arrest.
PBS Frontline - The O.J. Verdict: PBS Wired Magazine's Coverage: Wired offers an
provides a detailed exploration of the in-depth look at the Silk Road case,
trial, including issues with evidence including the investigation and digital
handling. evidence involved.
Famous Trials - O.J. Simpson: This site, U.S. Department of Justice: The DOJ website
hosted by the University of Missouri- provides legal documents and official
Kansas City Law School, offers a statements related to the prosecution of
detailed account of the trial, including Ross Ulbricht.
key evidence and the chain of custody
issues.
Innovations in Forensic
Technology
Advancements in various fields, from automation to artificial
intelligence, are not just shaping industries—they’re
revolutionizing forensic science as well.
Innovative techniques like automated systems, AI-driven
analysis, and cutting-edge chemical methods are pushing
the boundaries of what’s possible in evidence collection
and analysis.
These technologies are transforming traditional forensic
practices, enabling experts to solve cases with greater
accuracy and speed.
As we continue to adopt these innovations, forensic
investigations are becoming more comprehensive and
reliable, offering powerful new tools in the pursuit of justice.
Social Network Forensics

Role of Social Media in Analyzing Posts and Mapping Connections

Investigations Messages and Networks
Social media platforms are Investigators analyze posts Social network analysis
critical sources of and private messages to helps identify connections
evidence in criminal uncover motives, alibis, or between individuals,
investigations, providing threats made by suspects revealing potential
accomplices or networks
insights into suspect or victims. involved in criminal
behavior and relationships. activities.
Digital Surveillance for Xbox
Overview of the XFT Device Applications in Forensic Analysis
The XFT Device is a specialized tool for Used to uncover illicit data related to
extracting data from gaming consoles. criminal activities stored on Xbox
It can access hidden files and data that consoles.
are not typically visible to users. Helps in gathering evidence for cases
This device is crucial for forensic involving cybercrime and online
investigations involving digital evidence gaming misconduct.
stored in gaming systems. Facilitates the retrieval of user data,
including messages and gaming history,
for investigations.
 Digital Vehicle Forensics

Data Storage in
Event Reconstruction Identifying Suspects
Vehicles
Modern vehicles are Forensic investigators can Digital vehicle forensics
equipped with advanced extract and analyze this can reveal information
digital systems that store data to reconstruct events about vehicle usage
critical data such as GPS leading up to accidents or patterns, helping
locations, vehicle speed, criminal activities. authorities identify suspects
and driver behavior. in vehicle-related crimes.
 3D Technology

Can create detailed digital accurate replicas of physical

evidence, for examination, analysis, or courtroom
presentations, preserving the original items intact.
These technologies facilitate better understanding of
complex evidence, such as bone structures or fragmented
objects, aiding in crime scene reconstruction.
3D models can be manipulated and analyzed from
various angles, providing a comprehensive view that
assists in investigations and expert testimonies.
 Advanced imaging software creates a
3D Facial Reconstruction lifelike representation from skeletal
remains, aiding in victim identification.

The process involves analyzing

anatomical features of the skull,
including the structure of the jaw
and eye sockets, to accurately
model facial features.

This technique is critical in cold

cases where traditional
identification methods fail,
providing crucial leads for
investigators.
Drone Forensics

Data Collection Enhanced Investigation

Aerial Photography
Capabilities Techniques
Drones capture high- Equipped with sensors and Drones facilitate the
resolution aerial images, cameras, drones can examination of hard-to-
providing a collect valuable data for reach areas, improving
comprehensive view of analysis, including thermal evidence gathering in
crime scenes from above. imaging. various terrains.
 High-Speed Ballistics Photography &
Automated Firearm Identification Systems

Real-Time Capture of Ballistic Events:

High-speed photography captures bullet trajectories in real-time, thanks to
specialized cameras capable of recording up to millions of frames per
second.
Provides visual evidence of ballistic phenomena, allowing reconstruction of
the sequence of events in shootings, and is used to support forensic experts
in court.
Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS):
Uses high-resolution images of fired bullets and cartridge cases and a
digital database for rapid identification and matching of ballistic evidence
across jurisdictions.
It is based on advanced 3D imaging and uses comparison algorithms to
enhance the accuracy of firearm identification.
Revolutionizes the forensic ballistics process by automating the linking of
ballistic evidence to known firearms.
 Laser Ablation ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry)

A laser is used to precisely remove a tiny

amount of material from the surface of an
object, such as a paint chip, glass fragment, or
metal.
The material that the laser removes turns into
tiny particles, creating an aerosol which enters
a plasma (very hot, electrically charged gas)
that breaks down the particles into their
individual atoms.
It can identify the specific elemental
The atoms are then analyzed by the mass
"fingerprint" of materials, helping to
spectrometer, which identifies the different
match evidence from a crime scene
elements present in the sample and measures
(like glass fragments or metal shavings)
their quantities.
to a suspect or location.
Because only a tiny amount of
material is removed, the rest of the
sample remains intact for other tests.
Nanotechnology in Forensic Analysis

Detection of Nanotechnology enhances the ability to detect trace

Trace amounts of substances, including drugs and explosives,
Substances with high sensitivity and specificity.

Nanosensors are employed to analyze samples at the

Nanosensors
molecular level, allowing forensic scientists to identify
Applications materials that are otherwise difficult to detect.

The application of nanotechnology in forensics is

Future Potential promising, with potential developments in rapid on-site
testing and improved evidence collection methods.
Geolocating with Isotope Analysis

Different regions have unique isotope

signatures in water, soil, and food, which
are absorbed by people and reflected
in their tissues, such as hair, teeth, and
bones.
By analyzing isotopes in biological
tissues, forensic scientists can determine
an individual's movement patterns,
revealing where they may have
traveled or lived and can establish links Numerous cases have demonstrated
between suspects and crime scenes. the effectiveness of isotope analysis in
solving crimes, providing critical
evidence that supports or refutes alibis
based on geographical data.
 Artificial Intelligence Biometric Advances
AI algorithms assist in pattern New biometric technologies, like palm
recognition and predictive analysis, vein recognition, improve identification
enhancing the accuracy of evidence accuracy beyond traditional
evaluation. fingerprinting methods.
A recent case in New York utilized AI-
driven fingerprint analysis to solve a
complex burglary.
Traditionally, fingerprint matching relied
on comparing specific points like ridge
endings and bifurcations. However, in
this case, a team from Columbia
University developed an AI system
capable of identifying unique patterns
across different fingerprints from the
same individual, even if they were from
different fingers.
The AI system was able to link partial
prints found at the crime scene with the
suspect's fingerprints, which would have
been missed by traditional methods.
Electropages,
https://www.engineering.columbia.edu/
news/ai-discovers-not-every-fingerprint-
unique
AI in Blood Pattern Analysis

AI can automate the process of

identifying and classifying bloodstain
patterns, reducing human error and
increasing the speed of analysis.

AI algorithms can be trained on large

datasets to predict bloodstain patterns
based on various crime scenarios,
assisting forensic experts in making
more accurate interpretations.
 AI's Role in Forensic Science
Automated Data Processing Pattern Recognition Predictive Analytics

AI automates the analysis Machine learning AI can predict potential

of large datasets, algorithms can identify outcomes based on
significantly reducing the patterns in data such as historical data, aiding in
time forensic scientists fingerprints and DNA, case prioritization and
spend on data processing. enhancing the accuracy of resource allocation in
matches and comparisons. investigations.

Image and Video Analysis Natural Language Processing Continuous Learning

AI technologies can AI can analyze and AI systems improve over time

analyze images and summarize large volumes of through continuous learning,
videos, identifying key text, such as police reports adapting to new evidence
evidence and automating and witness statements, types and forensic
the review process for improving information methodologies, thereby
crime scene footage. retrieval. enhancing reliability.
Biosensors Analytical devices that detect and
measure biological or chemical
substances.
They combine a biological component,
such as enzymes, antibodies, or nucleic
acids, with a physical or chemical
detector to produce a measurable
signal, often in the form of an electrical
signal.

They can identify and quantify substances like

drugs, alcohol, and metabolites in bodily fluids, or
in fingerprints, or explosives on skin and clothes.
Provides valuable information on suspects' health
and lifestyle factors.
DNA Sequencing

Advanced Techniques Application in Cold Impact on Forensic

Cases Science
Next-generation This technology is crucial in The ability to analyze highly
sequencing (NGS) allows solving cold cases, degraded samples
for comprehensive analysis enabling the extraction of enhances the accuracy of
of degraded DNA samples, DNA from old or forensic investigations,
identifying genetic material contaminated evidence, improving the chances of
that traditional methods leading to potential identifying suspects or
may miss. matches. victims.
“Omics” Techniques
Proteomics involves studying
proteins to determine
Genomics allows forensic biomarkers in bodily fluids or
scientists to analyze DNA tissues. This can indicate the
sequences for identifying presence of specific drugs or
individuals and establishing diseases, assisting in toxicology
familial relationships. It reports.
helps in solving cold cases
and identifying remains.

Metabolomics analyzes
metabolic profiles to
understand physiological
conditions. It aids in
identifying substances that
may indicate drug use or
exposure to toxins.
Impact of Technology on Forensics
Introduction of digital forensics has
revolutionized evidence collection, allowing
for the retrieval of data from electronic
devices and vehicles.
Advancements in DNA analysis, such as next-
generation sequencing, enable analysis of
smaller and more degraded samples,
enhancing investigation outcomes.
3D imaging technologies improve crime
scene reconstruction and evidence
visualization, facilitating better understanding
of complex cases.
Automated systems in fingerprint analysis, like
AFIS, significantly increase the speed and
accuracy of matching fingerprints against
databases.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Forensic investigations Collaboration facilitates Interdisciplinary teams

require expertise from the sharing of knowledge can address complex
various fields, including and resources, enhancing cases more efficiently,
science, law, and the effectiveness of leveraging diverse skills to
technology, to ensure investigations and tackle challenges posed
comprehensive analysis improving outcomes in by emerging technologies
and interpretation of court. and methods.
evidence.
 Legal Implications of Forensic Evidence

Pros of Advanced Forensic Technologies Cons of Advanced Forensic Technologies

• Advanced forensic technologies enhance • The reliability of certain advanced
the accuracy of evidence, increasing the techniques may still be questioned, leading
likelihood of correct convictions or to challenges in court regarding their
exonerations. admissibility.
• The use of innovative techniques, such as • Some forensic technologies require
DNA analysis and digital forensics, extensive training and expertise, which may
provides clear and objective evidence not be universally available, leading to
that can be pivotal in court. inconsistencies in evidence handling.
• Modern forensic methods can simplify • Legal precedents regarding the
complex cases, allowing juries to better admissibility of new forensic methods are
understand the evidence presented. still evolving, which can create uncertainty
in their use in court.
 Ethical Considerations

The use of There is a risk of Ensuring the Forensic

advanced forensic misuse or accuracy and professionals must
technologies raises overreach of reliability of navigate the
concerns about technology, forensic balance between
privacy violations, leading to technologies is technological
especially when potential wrongful crucial to prevent
advancement and
analyzing digital accusations or false evidence that
evidence from invasions of could impact legal ethical standards
personal devices. personal rights. outcomes. to maintain public
trust.
Forensic Advancements in technology, from

science is digital forensics to innovative evidence

continuously
collection techniques, have improved
the accuracy and reliability of forensic

evolving, investigations. The integration of AI and

becoming blockchain ensures that evidence is

increasingly
collected effectively and maintained
securely. As forensic science advances,

vital in the its role in justice will become more

pursuit of critical, aiding in complex cases and

justice. enhancing public trust in the criminal

justice system.
 In conclusion:

Maintain Chain Ensure a secure and Interdisciplinary Collaborate with legal,

of Custody documented chain of Collaboration technological, and
custody for all evidence to scientific experts to address
preserve its integrity and complex challenges in
admissibility in court. forensic investigations.

Thorough Document all procedures, Continuous Engage in ongoing training

Documentation observations, and analyses Education and professional
meticulously to provide development to keep up
transparency and support with advancements in
the forensic process. forensic science and
technology.
Integrate New Stay updated and Adhere to Follow ethical guidelines in
Technologies incorporate cutting-edge Ethical all forensic practices to
forensic technologies to Standards ensure the integrity of
enhance evidence analysis evidence and respect for
and investigation efficacy. individuals involved.
Amanda Knox Case AI Fingerprint Analysis Case
The Guardian - "Amanda Knox: A Complete Wired - "How AI Is Reshaping the Future of
Case History“ An extensive overview of the Forensic Science“ An article discussing the role
Amanda Knox case, covering the of AI in modern forensic science, including its
investigation, trials, and eventual acquittal. use in fingerprint analysis.
New York Times - "How the Amanda Knox Scientific American - "Can AI Solve Crimes?
Case Played Out in Italy“ Detailed reporting The Future of Forensic Fingerprinting“ A
on the forensic evidence used in the trials discussion on the application of AI in
and the controversies surrounding the case. fingerprint analysis and its implications for the
BBC News - "Amanda Knox Acquitted: What future of criminal investigations.
Went Wrong in the Investigation?“ An analysis Nature - "Artificial Intelligence in Forensics: A
of the forensic failures and investigative Game Changer?“ This article provides an in-
missteps in the case. depth analysis of AI’s role in forensic science,
The Atlantic - "The Trials of Amanda Knox“ A with a focus on fingerprint analysis.
comprehensive feature that delves into the Forensic Magazine - "AI in Fingerprint Analysis:
forensic evidence and the impact of media Case Studies and Challenges“ A forensic
coverage on the case. science publication that discusses specific
cases, including the 2023 burglary case, where
AI was instrumental in solving the crime.