Collecting Evidence in a Crime Scene

Paper Summary:

In this paper the author looks at different questions that arise when examining a crime scene. He questions photography as a tool, citing its advantages and disadvantages. The author points out that with modern photography, pictures can easily be altered and do not necessarily stand up in a court of law. He elaborates on this issue. The paper continues with an examination of steps investigators take in order to ensure the integrity of the crime scene and, the procedures used to collect and submit the evidence. The author then discusses the different types of DNA that can and are used in evidence and how they can be taken. The paper concludes with a look at the different types of powders that are available and are used in detecting finger prints.
Table of Contents:
Pros and Cons of Photographing Examinations
Operating Principles of Photographing
Guidelines for Ensuring Your Digital Photographs Are Admissible
Traditional and Magnetic Powders
Fluorescent Powders
Small Particle Reagent
Cyanoacrylate Fuming

From the Paper:

"Mitochondria are cell structures found in all our cells. They are the power plants of our body, providing about 90% of the energy that our body needs to function. What's significant from the forensic science perspective is that single mitochondria hold several loops of DNA all of which are involved in energy generation. Further, since each cell in our body contains hundreds to thousands of mitochondria, this in fact means that there are hundreds to thousands of mtDNA copies in a human cell. This compares to just two copies of nuclear DNA located in that same cell. Thus, forensic scientists are offered better sensitivity and the opportunity to characterize mtDNA in situations where nuclear DNA is significantly degraded, such as in charred remains, or may be present in small quantity. Interestingly, in situations where authorities cannot get a reference sample from an individual who may be long deceased or missing, a mtDNA reference sample can be acquire from any maternally related relative. However, all individuals of the same maternal lineage will be indistinguishable by mtDNA analysis."

More papers on Collecting Evidence in a Crime Scene:

• Term Paper # 149370 : "Crime Scene Investigator"
• Research Paper # 92469 : "Crime Scene Investigation Procedures"
• Case Study # 109043 : "Analysis of Trace Evidence"

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