Forensics: Crime Scene Detective Evidence Types

Every investigation in Forensics: Crime Scene Detective involves multiple evidence types. Each category has specific collection, packaging, and analysis requirements. Understanding these differences prevents contamination and ensures valid case conclusions.

Evidence Categories

Fingerprint Evidence

Latent prints on surfaces require UV lighting to locate, powder to develop, and lifting tape to collect. Package on fingerprint cards. Process via fuming chamber or direct grid comparison in the lab. See the Fingerprint Analysis guide.

Biological / DNA Evidence

Blood traces (visible or spray-detected), skin cells, and biological fluids are collected with sterile swabs. Package in biological evidence containers. Primary DNA analysis identifies the source; secondary analysis finds additional profiles. See the DNA Analysis guide.

Digital Evidence

Smartphones, computers, USB drives, and storage media. Always photograph before removal. Functional devices can be imaged or decrypted; damaged devices need chip extraction. See the Digital Forensics guide.

Ballistic Evidence

Bullet holes, embedded projectiles, and firearms. Document impact points before removing projectiles. Trajectory reconstruction uses rods through documented holes. See the Ballistics guide.

Physical Evidence

Murder weapons, personal items, notes, and environmental objects. Standard mark-photograph-inspect-collect workflow. Items like coffee mugs may hold both fingerprint and DNA evidence requiring multiple analysis types.

Cross-Contamination Rules

• Never touch evidence before placing markers and photographing.
• Use separate containers for different evidence types.
• Process digital evidence from images, not originals when possible.
• Handle biological swabs with sterile technique.
• Document chain of custody through markers, photos, and barcoded labels.