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Forensic Science Handbook 2013 – Eleventh Edition A Practical Guide to the Proper Packaging, Transport, and Submission of Evidence to the DuPage County Forensic Science Center John E. Zaruba DuPage County Sheriff National Sheriff’s Association President, 2009-2010 Forensic Science Center DuPage County, Illinois A Division of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff John E. Zaruba (630) 407-2000 [email protected] Chief James Kruse (630) 407-2003 [email protected] Director Claire Dragovich (630) 407-2101 [email protected] Honor * Integrity * Quality In 2006, the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office became only the fourth law enforcement agency in the United States to earn the prestigious international ISO 17025 accreditation through the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors – Laboratory Accreditation Board. In late 2010 the laboratory successfully completed a five year audit and ISO 17025 accreditation was renewed effective February 17, 2011. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS General Information and Instructions 4 4 4 5 6 6 7 7 Our Mission What all Agencies Must Know Contacting our Scientists Directions, Appointments, and Hours of Operation It’s Your Forensic Science Laboratory Understanding Testing Reports Complaints General Submission Procedures Menu of Scientific Services 9 11 12 13 13 15 16 18 19 21 21 22 23 23 24 Controlled Substances Explosives Fibers Fingerprints Firearms (Ballistics) Flammables & Combustibles (Arson) Forensic Biology & DNA Glass Hair Intoxicating Compounds Lamps and Filaments Paint Shoe & Tire Impressions Toolmarks Other Resources Some excerpts of this handbook were quoted or paraphrased from the FBI Handbook of Forensic Services, which can be found at http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/lab/handbook-of-forensic-services-pdf. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 3 Our Mission The mission of the DuPage County Forensic Science Center is to support the criminal justice system with accurate, efficient, ethical, and professional scientific services that contribute to a higher quality of life for the citizens of DuPage County. This mission is achieved by meeting five main objectives: Maintaining proper facilities for casework and the receipt of evidence. Employing and training highly qualified scientists. Adhering to scientifically accepted procedures and laboratory quality assurance standards. Reporting analytical findings coherently and efficiently. Clearly articulating analytical findings in courts of law. Scientists working within the center have access to state-of-the-art instrumentation, first-class training opportunities, up-to-date literature, and a large network of professional peers with which to exchange pertinent information. Collectively, these resources enhance the scientific reliability and accuracy of information reported by our laboratory. What all Agencies Must Know This handbook is an official communication put forth by the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office for the benefit of all users of its forensic science services. Nonconformity to laboratory policies can result in evidence being returned to the submitting agency without analysis or the inclusion of language in a testing report or expert testimony that describes the nonconformity and its effect on evidence examinations. It is critical that all participants in the DuPage County criminal justice system understand that the laboratory employs a complex quality-management system that includes carefully documented methods, scientifically validated procedures, and quality-control policies that are enforced for the benefit of your agency. They are in place to protect the integrity of the laboratory’s work product and to prevent complications to ongoing investigations and court proceedings resulting from shoddy laboratory work or improperly-handled evidence. Each agency that works with the laboratory is, in essence, a part of this quality-management system and will be asked to adhere to the guidelines and requirements set forth in this handbook. Contacting our Staff Managing Scientists Jennifer Cones, CLPE, MA Claire Dragovich, Quality Manager / Criminalistics Supervisor Forensic Scientist – Latent Prints / Firearms / Toolmarks (630) 407-2110 [email protected] Laboratory Director / Chemistry & Microscopy Supervisor Forensic Scientist – Drug Chemistry (630) 407-2101 [email protected] Douglas Saul, F-ABC DNA Technical Leader / Supervisor Forensic Scientist – Forensic Biology / DNA (630) 407-2105 [email protected] 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 4 Our Scientists and Support Staff Jillian Baker Mary Dastych Forensic Scientist – Drug Chemistry (630) 407-2103 [email protected] Evidence Receiving (630) 407-2111 [email protected] Roxanne Brooks, CLPE, MS Forensic Scientist – Latent Prints / Impression Evidence (630) 407-2180 [email protected] Ticia Burgie Forensic Scientist – Drug Chemistry (630) 407-2113 [email protected] Tamara Camp, F-ABC, MS Mary Margaret Greer-Ritzheimer, F-ABC Forensic Scientist – Forensic Biology / DNA (630) 407-2151 [email protected] Jean Kinnane, MS Forensic Scientist – Forensic Biology (630) 407-2109 [email protected] Alfred Luckas, Forensic Scientist – Forensic Biology / DNA (630) 407-2115 [email protected] MS Forensic Scientist – Trace Evidence (630) 407-2092 [email protected] Timothy Campbell Vanessa Martinucci, F-ABC, MS Forensic Scientist – Latent Prints (630) 407-2095 [email protected] Forensic Scientist – Forensic Biology / DNA (630) 407-2096 [email protected] Sara Norris Forensic Scientist – Drug Chemistry (630) 407-2114 [email protected] Directions The laboratory is located at the DuPage County Government Center, situated on the east side of North County Farm Road approximately one half-mile north of Roosevelt Road (Route 38) in Wheaton. Located in the James “Pate” Philip Forensic Science Center, the laboratory is on the second floor of the 501 building. Follow signs to the Sheriff's Office / Jail and park at the west end of the 501 building. Evidence Submission BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM Please contact Mary Dastych at: (630) 407-2111 OR [email protected] 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 5 It’s Your Forensic Science Laboratory Sheriff John Zaruba has taken a proactive approach to crime-fighting in DuPage County by investing resources that allow scientific technology and forensic expertise to aid law enforcement agencies in solving crimes. Since 1969, the citizens of DuPage County have benefited from the services provided by the laboratory, which are made available to all law enforcement agencies in the county. As a result, our criminal justice system is more efficient, more effective, and more prepared to fairly and objectively dispose of criminal matters brought before it. In order to fully reap the benefits of these services, each agency within the DuPage County Criminal Justice System must work in partnership with their laboratory in the following ways: Have a full understanding of the laboratory’s capabilities and limitations. Be specific when requesting services. The role of a forensic science laboratory is to answer questions. The more specific the questions are, the more specific our answers will often be. Submit evidence with ample case information such as a copy of an incident report, summary of the incident, or other narrative describing the crime scene, incident, and persons involved. Be familiar with your evidence and the case so that laboratory personnel can ask questions if necessary. Keep the laboratory posted of changes in case status. If a suspect pleads guilty to charges, or a case will no longer be adjudicated, contact the laboratory so that the evidence can be returned. This helps the laboratory minimize its case backlog, allowing results to be returned in a more timely fashion. Remember that laboratory scientists are required to be objective and unemotional in their casework. We understand that some cases tug at the heartstrings of our submitting officers and we do everything possible to prioritize such cases where circumstances require it. But good science can’t be driven by emotional urgencies. In the interest of this on-going partnership, the laboratory offers a number of services to enhance professional awareness of its capabilities: The Introduction to Crime Laboratory Services Seminar for submitting agencies. The Forensic Science Handbook – a practical guide to the proper packaging, transport, and submission of evidence to the DuPage County Forensic Science Center. A website, www.dupageforensics.org that allows 24-hour-a-day access to information about our laboratory. Ultimately, efforts to enhance this partnership will pay dividends helping to make DuPage County safer for our citizens and the police officers that work day and night to keep them safe. Understanding Testing Reports The laboratory reports its final results and conclusions in the form of a testing report, which is uniquely identified by the laboratory case number followed by a sequential digit. An example of a unique report identifier would be 06-0093-03 where: 06 is the year in which the case was created. 0093 represents the ninety-third case accepted by the lab in 2006. 03 represents the third testing report issued for case number 06-0093. The results communicated in a laboratory testing report contain observations, interpretations, and judgments rendered by a scientist who has the requisite training and experience to conduct the analyses from which the reported information was generated or gathered. Furthermore, it may not be clear from reading a laboratory report how interpretive a particular result is compared to another. For this reason, all laboratory results should be considered interpretive in nature so that our scientists may be called to clarify or defend any information that is found to be ambiguous, incomplete, or confusing. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 6 Complaints The law enforcement community of DuPage County is strongly encouraged to voice any dissatisfaction with our forensic science services or personnel as soon as possible. Complaints should be brought to the attention of the director by phone or in writing. If it is necessary to bypass the director, complaints may be forwarded to Sheriff John Zaruba at (630) 407-2001. It is vitally important for any instances of substandard service to be reported in a timely fashion. Complaints are often the first step towards improving an organization’s level of service. To report a complaint to the interim laboratory director please call (630) 407-2102 or email the interim director at [email protected]. General Submission Procedures This section is intended to provide basic instructions for the submission of evidence to the laboratory. No set of instructions, however, can encompass every possible scenario that may arise. Common sense should always be exercised in the collection, preservation, and transport of evidence. Be sure to read the section titled “Special Considerations” for more information. 1. Place evidence exhibits in appropriate containers. Large and bulky items that do not lend themselves to packaging may be submitted without packaging if contamination, degradation, or evidence alteration is not an issue. 2. Seal each container with tamper-indicating tape. 3. Handwrite your initials and the date across the tape and onto the surface of the package. 4. Complete and attach a laboratory evidence label for each of your packages, or label each item with same information. DUPAGE COUNTY CRIME LABORATORY EVIDENCE/ITEMLABEL Please attach completed label to each package or item. AGENCY________________________________________________________ CASE#__________________________________________________________ PACKAGE__________OF__________ 5. Complete an Evidence Submission Form. Be sure to take your time and thoroughly fill in all of the necessary information. Sample forms are available to assist you in completing this form. 6. Write or include a summary of the incident or scene being investigated. The length and detail of the summary should be commensurate with the complexity and severity of the case. 7. Transport your evidence and documentation to the lab. You must schedule an appointment with Evidence Intake prior to transporting evidence to the laboratory. 8. Testing Reports will be mailed and/or given to submitting agency at their next evidence delivery. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 7 Describing Your Evidence When listing evidence on the submission form, it is not necessary to give lengthy descriptions or describe secondary containers. The following is an example of how evidence should be listed on the submission form: “One Ruger handgun” “White powder (from John Doe)” “Fingerprints of John Doe” “Fired bullet” “Discharged cartridge case from behind house.” It is not necessary to list model numbers, serial numbers, and other miscellaneous information. The purpose of an evidence submission form is to inventory what is in the package and (in some cases) from whom or where it was recovered. Laboratory Evidence Routing Forensic science laboratories process evidence in a specific order. The following is the routing policy of the laboratory: “The sequence in which the laboratory processes evidence can have a significant impact on the integrity of the evidence. Evidence submissions with multiple service requests must be routed through the laboratory in the proper sequence. The following sequence will be followed unless case specifics dictate otherwise: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Trace Analysis / Flammables & Combustibles Forensic Biology Latent Fingerprints Controlled Substances Firearms/Toolmarks It is the responsibility of each analyst to be aware of other forensic services requested for a particular submission. By virtue of their expertise, analysts will be expected to assess how and if a specific analysis may compromise the suitability of the evidence for analysis by subsequent disciplines. When such circumstances are present, the analysts from the corresponding sections of interest will confer and act accordingly. If the evidence is associated with a death investigation or cases where the victim or suspect is known to be a juvenile, the laboratory director must approve any routing changes.” Selecting Your Packages The packages or containers that are selected for evidence will often depend on the evidence itself. Evidence packages fall under two broad categories: External Packaging and Secondary Packaging. An external package is the outermost container upon which all of the necessary information will be written. A secondary package is one or more that is sealed inside of the external package. An evidence technician’s goal in selecting a suitable package for evidence is to protect the evidence from loss or damage and to allow for a proper seal as listed in the next section. Sealing Your Packages The purpose of a seal is to accomplish the following: Prevent loss of evidence Prevent cross-transfer of evidence or evidence samples Prevent deleterious change or degradation resulting from exposure to air or ambient conditions Render the package tamper evident making it impossible to access the interior of the package without causing obvious damage to it Identify the person who created the seal and the date it was sealed If any of these objectives have not been met, then the seal is improper. A seal should be made with tamper-indicating tape when possible, with the officer’s initials, badge number, and date written across 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 8 the tape and onto the package itself. Seals such as those found on envelopes, which are made by the manufacturer of the container, are considered sealed and need not be marked or over-sealed in any way. It is vitally important that law enforcement officials be aware of how to properly package and seal their evidence for submission to the laboratory. Marking Your Packages There are many different kinds of evidence packages and containers. Many that you will see on a daily basis are pre-printed with fields to be filled out by the submitting agency. Not all packages, however, have such fields. At a minimum, the following information should be marked on the external package when submitted: Agency Name and Agency Complaint Number. Refer to forensic disciplines in the table of contents for more specific evidence packaging procedures. Submit Best Evidence First In many cases, particularly the more complex ones, at-scene investigators may have a myriad of items to collect for submission to the laboratory. The excerpt on the following page was paraphrased from the book Mute Witnesses: Trace Evidence Analysis, by Max M. Houck, and should be kept in mind when submitting evidence to the forensic science laboratory: “Often, crime scene personnel in a desperate attempt not to make a mistake nevertheless err on the side of caution and collect many, many items of evidence. Most of these do nothing more than create a glut of evidence in the laboratory and a backlog of cases for the examiner. No one can deny that thoroughness is the watchword for crime scene processing but thoughtfulness is nearly as important. Blindly grabbing every item of clothing from a suspect’s or victim’s closet with no regard as to why those items are being collected does a disservice to the laboratory and, eventually, to the investigator as well. Given the intense media coverage that can smother a breaking case, the fear of later scrutiny and blame at not having collected every possible item of evidence can be understood, if not appreciated. But fear is a poor justification. Reason, experience, and case circumstances should dictate what is collected.” An important point to grasp from this paragraph is the inherent problems that arise when items are “blindly” collected and submitted to a forensic science lab. Investigators should know specifically why a particular piece of evidence is of probative value and make attempts, either verbally or in writing, to communicate this to the laboratory. The submission of excessive amounts of evidence to a forensic science laboratory creates two fundamental problems. First, the effort the scientist will have to make to keep numerous items organized and protected may detract from his/her focus on how that evidence relates to the facts of the case. Managing a pile of questionable items hinders the scientist’s ability to “reconstruct” how they may have been involved in the crime, which is ultimately what investigators want to know. Second, the case will take longer to work, delaying the reporting of results that may be time-sensitive, and generally bogging down the lab in increasing backlogs. Particularly in major cases, it is important to identify what evidence is most probative at a given time. The DuPage County Forensic Science Center is prepared and equipped to report critical analytical findings within hours, and sometimes minutes of submission. Often times, these early investigative leads prove valuable in identifying or locating a suspect shortly after a crime is committed. Controlled Substances Description of the Science Utilizing microscopical, instrumental, chemical and other techniques, unknown substances in various forms including, but not limited to, plant material, powders, tablets/capsules, paper and liquids can be analyzed for the presence of controlled substances and cannabis as defined under Illinois Chapter 720, Acts 550 and 570. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 9 Special Considerations Submissions for controlled substance analyses come in a wide range of sample types and sizes. Packaging and submission procedures must be governed on a sample-by-sample basis. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional introduction of a controlled substance by sample cross-contamination. This can result from careless handling or improper packaging. Safety Hazards Exposure to substances of unknown origin represents a significant health and safety hazard. This exposure may be through ingestion, respiration, or absorption through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Submission Restrictions As part of the laboratory’s ongoing management of its case volume, it is common for the laboratory to return evidence on cases that will no longer be adjudicated, particularly as a result of guilty pleas. The purpose for such action is to clear our caseload so that our chemists can devote their time to cases being addressed by the criminal justice system. Drug identification testing is not conducted on residues when the surface has been subjected to field testing by police personnel. In addition, the laboratory will not conduct analysis of evidence in cases limited to violations of local ordinance. Only cases involving potential criminal charges qualify for laboratory testing. The following submission policies apply to controlled substance cases: 1. The laboratory does not accept cases where there is no suspect. 2. Cannabis pipes will not be tested for drug paraphernalia charges. 3. Syringes and needles will not be accepted. 4. Drug identification testing is not conducted on residues when the surface has been subjected to field testing by police personnel. 5. The laboratory will not conduct analysis of evidence in cases limited to violations of local ordinance. Proper Packaging and Submission The following guidelines should be adhered to whenever possible. If circumstances arise that cannot be addressed by this list, contact the laboratory immediately. Please do not submit field test kits. Cannabis plants must be submitted in a dry state, packaged in paper or cardboard. If the plants are growing when found, remove the plants from their containers and remove as much dirt as possible, leaving the root system intact. A plant is not considered a plant unless the root system is attached. Allow the plant to air dry before packaging. Liquid evidence should be submitted in a leak-proof container and should be kept refrigerated. If the original container leaks when tipped, transfer the contents to a new container (jar, vial, etc.). When liquids are submitted for controlled substance analysis, the entire amount must be submitted. Liquids are not accepted for alcohol analysis. Please note on the submission form if the case is a garbage pull and, if so, mark it as biohazardous. We will prioritize garbage pulls if they are being used to obtain a search warrant. Please note on the evidence and/or submission form, the location where each item was found and which suspect it will be attributed to. It is also important to note if there was an item that was the probable cause to search, etc. Advise the laboratory when submitting suspected PCP, as the solvent may be flammable. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 10 If the evidence is from a controlled buy please indicate if it was an informant buy (agency designation A, B, C etc), or an agent controlled buy (agency designation 1,2,3 etc). Testing of pharmaceutical tablets and capsules will be limited to the highest schedule. Explosives Description of the Science Utilizing the scientific principles of chemistry and microscopy, the laboratory is able to identify the presence of explosive mixtures in submitted samples. Analytical data generated by instrumentation and visual inspection is compared against known standards, allowing the forensic chemist to conclusively identify the presence of explosive mixtures or residues. Special Considerations The laboratory routinely accepts suspected explosive powders from improvised explosive devices (IED’s) such as pipe bombs, M-devices (i.e. M-80’s) and chemical reaction (pop bottle) bombs. The laboratory will not accept primary explosives such as blasting caps. The safety of the officer during transport, and the safety of laboratory personnel must be vigilantly protected. The laboratory will also not accept commercially manufactured and military high explosives such as Dynamite and plastic explosives, nor explosive residues from explosions suspected of being caused by such devices. In explosion cases involving the analysis of these explosive residues, contact the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. For analysis of unexploded high explosives of military or commercial origin, contact the Illinois State Police Forensic Science Center in Joliet or Chicago, Illinois. It is noted that the majority of explosive devices encountered in this country, as of the time of this writing, are improvised low explosives and samples of these types of devices are routinely submitted to the DuPage County Forensic Science Center for analysis. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional introduction of explosive mixtures by sample cross-contamination. Safety Hazards Exposure to substances of unknown origin represents a significant health and safety hazard. This exposure may be through ingestion, respiration, or absorption through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Explosives pose a significant safety hazard of their own. The instability of explosive mixtures can cause an explosion. Some mixtures can be absorbed rapidly through the skin causing, in some cases, severe headaches. Call the Sheriff’s radio room at 407-2400 to contact a member of our Hazardous Device and Explosives Unit. Proper Packaging and Submission All explosive or hazardous devices must be rendered safe by a qualified technician prior to submission to the laboratory. After rendering the device safe, the bomb technician will provide the laboratory with a small representative sample of explosive powder in a sealed glass vial for analysis. The remains of exploded IEDs and surrounding solid materials suspected of containing explosive residue should be collected in an unused metal can with a securing lid. The submission of soil / dirt should be avoided. The remains of exploded pop bottle bombs should be submitted in either a plastic evidence bag or if fingerprint processing is requested, place the exploded pop bottle in a sealed gray epoxy lined paint can. A portion of any remaining liquid should be submitted to the laboratory in a sealed glass vial preferably 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 11 with a Teflon lined screw cap. This liquid is typically highly caustic / corrosive and extreme caution must be used when handling such materials. It is recommended that evidence submitted for explosive residue analysis be submitted ASAP to avoid potential chemical degradation due to long-term storage. Fibers Description of the Science Utilizing microscopical, instrumental, and chemical techniques, the laboratory is able to compare fibers of unknown origin with known standards to determine the possibility of common source. Also, the type of fiber, its color, and composition can be ascertained. The purpose of this type of analysis is to provide associative evidence to investigators for the purpose of linking or excluding an individual as being present at a scene or in contact with another person or item. Special Considerations Like other trace evidence examinations, fiber examinations are often time consuming due to the preparatory steps that must be taken to ready the fibers for analysis. For homicide or other sensitive cases, preliminary investigative information can be provided. In most cases, however, fiber examinations are limited to comparisons of unknown or questioned fibers, with standard fibers whose origin is known. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional deposition of miscellaneous fibers on items to be examined, such as clothing or bedding. This contamination can come from ambient surroundings, from law enforcement personnel, or from sample to sample cross-contamination. Cross contamination of fibers can be minimized at crime scenes with the routine use of clean, unused disposable garments such as, caps, booties, gloves and hooded coveralls of known composition. Safety Hazards There are no specific safety hazards associated with this kind of evidence. Other hazards, however, may exist warranting the exercise of universal precautions. Proper Packaging and Submission Loose fibers should be submitted in a sealed paper-fold and placed in envelopes or bags to prevent loss or cross-transfer. Questioned fibers can be collected from large, or bulky item surfaces, not suitable for submission to the laboratory, with transparent lifting tape. The laboratory currently uses Scotch brand 845 Book Tape that is 3 inches wide. Another good transparent lifting tape is Scotch brand 600 Transparent Tape that is 2 inches wide. The tape rolls should always be stored in a clean re-sealable plastic bag when not in use. Recent fiber and hair transfers can be collected and preserved by taping and lifting off of a surface until the tape begins to lose some tackiness. The tape lift is then folded over itself so that the tacky surfaces are protected form possible contamination. The folded tape lift should be no more that 5 inches in length and the tape should be evenly folded so that no adhesive surfaces are exposed. Tape lifts can be stored in sealed envelopes. Tape lifts and all other packaging should clearly indicate the location or person from which the sample was collected. Standards should be submitted in the form of a piece of cloth or garment if available, packaged in an envelope or paper bag and marked accordingly. Comments Transfer of fibers between individuals or objects occurs constantly during the course of completely legitimate business. The presence of fibers, absent standards for comparison, is of little or no value to an investigation. Standards should always be submitted with questioned fiber evidence; however, it is important that standards and questioned fibers be packaged separately (independently of each other). 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 12 Fingerprints Description of the Science Utilizing visual, photographic, and chemical processing techniques, the laboratory is able to compare the fingerprints of known individuals with latent fingerprints recovered from or developed at a crime scene. The basis for the science of fingerprint examination is that friction-ridge patterns present on the human fingers, palms of the hands, and bottoms of the feet are both persistent and unique to an individual. Submission Restrictions No evidence associated with a case in which there was no physical injury to a person and the total loss or damage suffered by the victim is less than $500, or in multiple associated cases where the loss or damage suffered by the victims is less than $1,500 will be accepted for latent print examination. There may be exceptions; however, in such instances the laboratory must be contacted prior to submission. Special Considerations Fingerprints are primarily made of water and therefore are inherently fragile making them sensitive to removal from contact and environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures. Elimination Prints It has been estimated that approximately 60% of all latent prints suitable for comparison are identified to elimination prints, defined as record finger and/or palm prints for all individuals having legitimate access to a crime scene or are known to have touched a particular item in question. This estimation undoubtedly illustrates the importance of obtaining and submitting clearly and completely recorded elimination prints. Furthermore, the State of Illinois requires elimination prints to be compared to latent prints prior to all Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) searches. For these reasons it is required that elimination prints be submitted with questioned evidence in latent print cases. This thoroughness will save time and effort, particularly during the later stages of an investigation. Susceptibility to Contamination Contamination is caused by the unintentional deposition of fingerprints on items to be examined – often by first responders or other law enforcement personnel. Safety Hazards There are no specific safety hazards associated with this kind of evidence. Other hazards, however, may exist warranting the exercise of universal precautions. Proper Packaging and Submission Latent fingerprint evidence should always be packaged in paper or cardboard. Sealed plastic should never be used. Also, secure the item within the package to minimize movement, which might wipe away latent prints that are present. Items that are Superglue fumed prior to transport and submission are not as sensitive to degradation. Comments The laboratory has witnessed an increase in the number of cases that require physical processing by our scientists. Whenever possible, investigating agencies should process non-porous evidence (superglue fuming and powdering) immediately after collection. Studies have shown that processing conducted by the investigating agency immediately after collection increases the likelihood of developing comparable prints by shortening the time that they are exposed to ambient conditions. Because it is time-consuming for our scientists, we will prioritize cases for agencies that 1) take the initiative to process non-porous evidence immediately after collection, and 2) submit latent lifts to the laboratory for comparison. Firearms (Ballistics) Description of the Science Utilizing microscopical, visual, and chemical techniques, the laboratory is able to provide a wide range of services with respect to firearms evidence. In its most basic form, firearm identification involves 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 13 determining if a fired bullet or discharged cartridge case was or was not fired from a particular firearm. Such conclusions are possible due to the microscopic imperfections left in the barrel and other components of the firearm during the manufacturing process. The resulting pattern of striae and impressions imparted to bullets and cartridge cases are unique to the gun that fired them. Firearms examination offers various types of analysis and conclusions that can be offered. The following examinations are performed on firearm evidence submitted to the laboratory: Microscopical Comparative Analysis – This is commonly referred to as “ballistics” or the identification of bullets and cartridge cases as being fired from a particular firearm. Determine Type of Weapon (DTW) – Whenever fired bullets or cartridge cases are submitted to the laboratory absent a suspect firearm, an examination (DTW) is performed to provide investigators with makes of firearms that may have fired the submitted evidence. Firearm Function Testing to include Routine Firearms Examination – This involves the examination of the gun for operability as well as the amount of force required to pull the trigger. Routine firearms are not associated with a shooting, but are submitted for function testing and to be compared against the laboratory’s Unsolved Case File. See section below pertaining to the Sheriff's GRIP program. Serial Number Restoration Special Considerations The value of the results rendered by a firearm examiner is often affected by the location or person from which the examined evidence was recovered. Incident reports should always be submitted with firearm evidence recovered from a crime scene. Susceptibility to Contamination Firearm evidence is often durable and not susceptible to environmental or ambient contamination. Caution must be exercised, however, when removing bullets from walls or other structures. Toolmarks imparted to the bullet during extraction can destroy the unique markings used for comparison purposes. Safety Hazards Firearms pose a significant safety hazard and should be treated accordingly. The possibility for an accidental discharge warrants the exercise of extreme caution. Firearm evidence often introduces a biological hazard, particularly in suicide cases or cases where bodily fluids are deposited on the firearm. Bullets that pass through bodies are a biological risk, and often have sharp jagged edges that can puncture the skin if handled carelessly. Guns that are bloody or bear potentially biohazardous residue should be secured in a box with punch holes and then further wrapped in a paper bag. This will prevent biological material from “falling” out of the punch holes and contaminating surfaces coming in contact with packaged evidence. Proper Packaging and Submission Submittors must ensure that firearms are unloaded at the time of submission and that the barrel direction is indicated on the package. If a submitting agency suspects that a firearm might be loaded, the laboratory must be contacted prior to submission so that a qualified examiner is available to inspect the evidence at the time of submission. Evidence bullets should be packaged individually in small cardboard boxes, envelopes, or film canisters. Bullets may be rinsed clean of bodily fluids to preserve the markings used for comparison; however, it is not recommended brushes or abrasive materials be used to remove substances from the surfaces of bullets as this may affect the integrity of toolmarks used during the comparison process. Cartridge cases can all be packaged in a single container; however, multiple cartridge cases should be packaged according to their location at a scene and marked accordingly. This often aids reconstructing the crime scene, particularly when multiple shooters are involved. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 14 Comments Firearm evidence is often an extension of the crime scene itself. Proper documentation of the condition of a firearm (such as whether or not the hammer was cocked or safeties were engaged) should be recorded by on-site personnel as needed. Gun Recovery and Identification Program (GRIP) For many years, the laboratory has accepted randomly seized firearms from submitting agencies that are to be screened against the Unsolved Case File. The Unsolved Case File is a collection of fired evidence samples (bullets and cartridge cases) that are associated with DuPage County shootings that remain unsolved. From 1999 through 2004, the Forensic Science Center utilized the Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS) to computerize images of these samples and to screen submitted guns against the database. While IBIS is a very valuable and effective tool in jurisdictions with rampant firearm-related crime, after five years in DuPage County and no "hits," it was determined that a better solution could be implemented that would provide agencies with information on a more frequent basis. Hence, the GRIP program was born. The trial phase of the GRIP program actually began in 2003, unbeknownst to our submitting agencies, when laboratory scientists cataloged, classified, and photographed the evidence samples in the Unsolved Case File. A formal screening protocol was established and immediate success was appreciated when two unsolved shootings in DuPage County were linked to each other using the screening protocol. Under the GRIP program, agencies submit firearms for function testing and screening against the digitized and catalogued Unsolved Case File. Nonetheless, this laboratory recognizes that in some cases there may still be a need to have fired evidence components screened through IBIS (i.e. known criminal activity across state lines). For this reason, in 2012 our Unsolved Case File was entered into IBIS for screening purposes. Likewise, during the submission of a firearm our submitting agencies can request test fires be acquired and packaged externally for subsequent submission to another laboratory for IBIS entry. Flammables & Combustibles (Arson) Description of the Science Utilizing the scientific principles of chemistry, the laboratory is able to identify the presence of flammable or combustible liquids in submitted samples. Analytical data generated by our instrumentation is compared against known standards, allowing the forensic chemist to conclusively identify the presence of accelerants that may indicate arson. Special Considerations Samples must be submitted as soon as possible due to the volatility of flammable liquids. Long term storage of evidence cans containing clothing or fire debris evidence can result in chemical degradation of potential flammable or combustible liquid residues. Evidence cans may also corrode rapidly depending upon the corrosive nature of the fire debris present in the evidence can. This can lead to the production of holes in the evidence can. The laboratory should be advised of how much time has passed between sample collection and sample submission. Soil or dirt samples should be refrigerated or frozen to slow microbial degradation of flammable liquids. When ever possible, submit an uncontaminated substrate control sample. This is also known as a comparison sample. Examples include soil/dirt, home furnishings such as draperies, and various construction materials such as molding, wood, floor tile, ceiling tile, roofing materials and carpeting/padding. This is also important with substrate materials used by the fire investigator to collect traces of flammable liquids such as a sponge or gauze pad. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional introduction of flammable liquids by sample cross contamination. Never place latex or rubber gloves in containers with evidence sample. If you must retain the gloves with the evidence, tape them to the exterior of the evidence can. If the evidence has been repackaged from a plastic bag or other non-vapor tight packaging, make certain that this original packaging material is not placed into the evidence can along with the evidence. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 15 If the presence of a particular type of flammable or combustible liquid is suspected based upon a fire scene investigation, this information should be communicated on the laboratory evidence submission form. When receiving a new shipment of metal paint cans, each submitting agency can voluntarily submit one new evidence can for quality control testing. Please contact the laboratory for further instructions. Safety Hazards Exposure to substances of unknown origin represents a significant health and safety hazard. This exposure may be through ingestion, respiration, or absorption through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Flammable liquids represent an explosion hazard and should be treated accordingly. Proper Packaging and Submission Submit fire debris evidence and clothing in unused paint cans to prevent loss of flammable liquid evidence. The largest size can that can be accepted is a 5-gallon can. The use of paper bags or cardboard boxes is unacceptable. Evidence cans must not be filled all the way to the top. They should be filled no more that three quarters full, leaving an air space above the debris or clothing. Make certain that you provide information regarding the type of evidence present in each evidence can and also provide the recovery location. This information along with standard chain of custody information can be provided directly on each evidence can. Submittors must minimize potential hazards associated with flammable liquids and prevent loss of evidence through the following: Submit liquid samples in a secure unused container having a secure top, such as a glass vial or jar. A glass vial with a Teflon lined screw cap is recommended. Do not submit liquid samples in bottles with rubber eye droppers. Submit no more than 2 milliliters of unknown liquid (in small vial) for analysis. Large cans containing possible flammable liquid must not be submitted. Cans submitted for latent fingerprint processing should be submitted empty and secured with a proper fitting lid or cap. Be certain that the lid makes a strong seal around the entire can. Comments Clothing and shoe evidence that is submitted to the laboratory for flammable / combustible liquid analysis must be packaged in a vapor-tight metal can in the same manner as fire debris evidence. Evidence cans are commercially available in many sizes. Forensic Biology & DNA Description of the Science Forensic Biology (FB) searches for the presence of hair and body fluids. FB currently provides presumptive tests for blood, semen, and saliva, and one confirmatory test for semen. In the case of contact with skin (see “contact DNA” below), the Forensic Biologist is limited to preparing the submitted item for a DNA analyst to test. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a chemical that provides the instructions for a person’s physical characteristics. A person is made of trillions of different kinds of cells. Each cell containing DNA has a complete and identical copy of DNA in its nucleus (i.e., nuclear DNA). DNA is also found in other places in the cell (for example, mitochondrial DNA). Taken as a whole, each person’s DNA is unique (with the exception of identical twins). Forensic DNA only examines a few portions of the DNA, but because these portions aren’t linked to each other, a specific combination of them can be highly discriminating. DNA collected from a crime scene can either link a person to the evidence or eliminate them as the source of DNA. DNA can also be used to show familial relationships. Using the DNA database (known as CODIS), 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 16 DNA from crime scenes can be compared with the DNA of convicted offenders or with DNA left by the same perpetrator at other crime scenes. DNA results can be obtained from evidence that is decades old. However, several factors can affect the DNA left at a crime scene, including environmental factors (e.g., dilution, sunlight, and bacteria). Not all DNA evidence will result in useful DNA results, although results can usually be obtained when testing a visible stain. Generally, there needs to be several cell’s worth of DNA to obtain useful DNA results. Special Considerations When transporting and storing evidence that may contain DNA, it is important to keep the evidence dry and at room temperature (or lower). If evidence that may contain DNA is stored in plastic bags, metal cans, Styrofoam, or glass, then it must be kept frozen without any thawing. Do not expose evidence to direct sunlight and avoid places that may get hot, such as a police car without air conditioning. Agencies are reminded of the statutory requirements of the Illinois Sexual Assault Evidence Submission Act (Public Act 96-1011); specifically, the requirement that evidence submitted for analysis must include a certification that the evidence is submitted in connection with a criminal investigation. Susceptibility to Contamination Due to the sensitivity of the tests used by our laboratory, extra care must be taken to prevent contamination. Evidence can be contaminated when someone sneezes or coughs over the evidence or touches his/her mouth, nose, or other part of the face and then touches the area that may contain the DNA to be tested. It can even happen by leaning over the evidence because skin cells could be unknowingly deposited on its surface. The DNA testing process will copy whatever DNA is present in the sample; it cannot distinguish between the original DNA and DNA that was added later. However, the DNA tests are semi-quantitative, so if there is a preponderance of DNA from one person, the DNA from another person may not even be detectable. If a mixture is detected, it may be possible to attribute the portion of results attributed to a particular person. Safety Hazards Biological evidence samples and materials may contain hazardous pathogens. Universal precautions must be taken whenever blood or other body fluids are collected and submitted. All evidence that is thought to contain body fluids must be labeled with a biohazard label. Proper Packaging and Submission Investigators and laboratory personnel should work together to determine the most probative pieces of evidence and to establish priorities. The most useful information will be obtained when the analyst can: find blood or other body fluid with the victim’s DNA profile on the suspect, something in the suspect’s possession, or something associated with the suspect find blood or other body fluid with the suspect’s DNA profile on the victim, something in the victim’s possession, or something associated with the victim. How to Collect Questioned Samples - When samples are small and easily transportable, such as a cigarette butt or a t-shirt, they can be collected and packaged whole. In many instances, it is better for the crime scene investigator to collect the stain via swabs or cuttings. The method chosen will vary depending upon whether the surface upon which the stain has been deposited is absorbent or not. For an item that is absorbent, such as a carpet, the best collection method may be to cut out the stained portion. Non-porous surfaces, such as a glass window, are amenable to swabbing. Do not handle the stained area directly. Wear gloves when collecting stains. To collect dried stains, use distilled water to moisten a cotton swab (or thread, gauze, filter paper, or cloth) and rub this across the stain. This may be followed by a dry swab, but if so, note which swab is the wet swab and which is the dry swab. Make the stain as concentrated as possible on the swab, but be sure to collect the entire stain. Air-dry wet stains at room temperature before packaging. Do not fan or heat-dry stains. If multiple swabs of a single stain are collected, it is good practice to number the swabs in the order they were collected. A control sample may be collected from a nearby area, but due to the sensitivity of DNA and the semi-quantitative nature of DNA results, the laboratory does not typically test controls. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 17 To collect a standard (a DNA sample witnessed to have come directly from a person, and used for the purposes of comparing to DNA results from evidence), blood or saliva (i.e., buccal) samples may be submitted. For buccal swabs, be sure to use a sterile swab. Do not let the subject eat, drink, or place anything in their mouth, except for water, for approximately 15 minutes prior to collection. It may be helpful to have the subject rinse their mouth with water before collecting the sample. Rub the inside of either cheek a few times. It is not necessary or helpful to swab the subject’s tongue, teeth, throat or lips, or to collect different areas of the mouth. Items submitted for DNA analyses are categorized and prioritized as follows: (1) associative analysis, (2) corroborative analysis, and (3) crime recreation. Analyses will not be conducted for the sole purpose of crime-recreation when a suspect has been identified and case information provides no compelling indication that additional suspects were involved. Visible stains will be screened and tested for DNA only when the questioned contributor had no legitimate or innocent access to those surfaces. The laboratory will strive to limit DNA testing to visible stains, residues, or materials. “Contact DNA” (or touch DNA) that is not discovered through an observable residue will be tested when the surface upon which the DNA is collected was in consistent or exclusive contact with the questioned contributor. For contact DNA evidence, the laboratory may opt to defer the analysis pending submission of elimination standards from emergency and police personnel who accessed the crime scene. Glass Description of the Science Using microscopical, visual, and various physical measurement techniques, glass comparisons can determine whether particles of glass could have originated from a particular source. Moreover, glass fracture examinations can determine the direction and type of the breaking force and the sequencing of shots where bullets have passed through the glass. Special Considerations Like other trace evidence examinations, glass examinations are often time consuming due to the preparatory steps that must be taken to ready evidence for analysis. For homicide or other sensitive cases, preliminary investigative information can be provided. In most cases, however, glass examinations are limited to comparisons of unknown or questioned fragments, with standard fragments whose origin is known. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional deposition of miscellaneous glass particles on items to be examined, such as clothing or bedding. It is imperative that glass standards and any evidence containing potential questioned glass be packaged in such a manner to eliminate the possibility of glass fragment cross contamination. Safety Hazards Glass fragments are often sharp and can puncture skin. Proper Packaging and Submission Submit samples of glass from each broken window or source in leak proof containers such as film canisters or plastic pill bottles. Avoid using paper or glass containers if possible. When the location of trace evidence is of importance, collect and package the evidence, noting its location. Submit samples of laminated glass (such as a windshield) from each side of the laminate (entire pieces of laminated glass are preferred). Label the samples INSIDE and OUTSIDE and package separately in leak proof containers such as film canisters or plastic pill bottles. Avoid using paper or glass containers. For glass fracture examinations, label the sides of the glass in the frame INSIDE and OUTSIDE. Label the glass where it was removed in the frame such as TOP, BOTTOM, LEFT, and RIGHT. Submit all glass pieces so that the pieces can be fitted together to identify the radial cracks near and at the point(s) of impact and to increase the probability of matching edges. Pack all glass separately and securely to 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 18 avoid shifting and breaking during transport. Secure the glass between sheets of plywood or sturdy cardboard. Do not place any objects into the impact area. Clothing evidence should be packaged in sealed unused paper bags. It is recommended that each article of clothing and footwear should be packaged in a separate paper bag. Hair Description of the Science Utilizing microscopical and visual techniques, hair examinations can determine whether hairs are animal or human. Race, body area, method of removal, damage, and alteration (that is, bleaching or dyeing) can be determined from human hair analysis. Examinations can associate a hair to a person on the basis of microscopic characteristics in the hair but cannot provide absolute personal identification. A determination of the species or family of an animal hair may be made by microscopical hair examinations. Special Considerations Like other trace evidence examinations, hair comparisons are often time consuming due to the preparatory steps that must be taken to ready the hairs for analysis. For homicide or other sensitive cases, preliminary investigative information can be provided. In most cases, however, hair examinations are limited to comparisons of unknown or questioned hairs, with standard hairs whose origin is known. In general, most comparisons are conducted using head or pubic hair samples. Testing Hairs for DNA - The DuPage County Forensic Science Center currently has the capability to perform nuclear DNA analysis on hairs; however, in order to perform this type of analysis, follicle tissue should be present around the root of the hair. This is typically observed on hairs that have been forcefully removed from the scalp. Nuclear DNA analysis is rarely successful on hair fragments (no root) or most naturally shed hairs. Another type of DNA analysis can also be performed on hair fragments or on hairs with no follicle tissue. Known as mitochondrial DNA analysis, this type of DNA typing does not have the specificity of nuclear DNA analysis since it involves only the maternal half of a person’s DNA. Currently the FBI laboratory and a few private labs perform this type of analysis on selected hairs that have been screened microscopically and are related to homicides or other violent crime investigations. DNA analysis procedures are destructive to hair evidence. Because of those and other factors, the role of DNA analysis in forensic hair examination will usually be as a second test used to confirm a microscopical hair association and provide a probability of match determination. The microscopical approach to hair examination will continue to be the primary procedure in forensic hair examination. When DNA analysis is requested for hair evidence, questioned hairs will be microscopically evaluated for suitable candidates to be analyzed for DNA. Significance of Hair Evidence - Traditional microscopical comparison of questioned hairs from crime scenes or other sources to known standards has been performed routinely with the aid of the comparison microscope for nearly a century and involves the direct examination and comparison of class characteristics present in the hairs. Hair evidence does not contain individual characteristics that would permit personal identification. However, hair associations or eliminations can be obtained and these findings may be significant as an investigative tool and are accepted in court. Collecting Hair Standards - Standards containing numerous hairs are required for microscopical comparisons so that a representative sample containing the range of characteristics for a particular individual is available. This will help avoid a false elimination during the comparison process. Every effort should be made to see that hair standards are collected as soon as possible relative to the occurrence. Microscopical hair comparisons are typically limited to head and pubic hair comparisons. Hairs from the other body areas are usually of little or no microscopical comparison value. Animal hair comparisons are occasionally requested and can be useful for elimination purposes but have limited associative value. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 19 Head hair standards consist of a total of 50 to 100 hairs pulled from the top, sides, front, and back of the head with thumb and forefinger. Pubic hair standards consist of a total of 25 to 50 hairs pulled from the pubic mound. The hair standards should not be cut or pulled with forceps. Animal hair standards can be obtained by vigorous combing or brushing of 500 or more hairs from the entire body with a clean unused comb or brush. Hair standards should be placed into a clean paper fold that is placed into an envelope and sealed. It is noted that used combs or brushes containing hairs taken from a victim’s or suspect’s home does not constitute a hair standard. Hairs found on these items are treated as questioned hairs. In some instances, head hair standards may be difficult to obtain by pulling because the hair is short or brittle. In these situations hair standards may be successfully obtained by a vigorous combing method. This procedure must be conducted after thoroughly combing the hair to remove transfer evidence. Separate clean, unused combs must be utilized for the collection of transfer evidence and hair standards and each must be packaged separately with contents clearly described. Under no circumstances should you substitute chest hair or other body hair for a head or pubic hair standard. If difficulties persist in obtaining a proper hair standard, please contact the laboratory. In order for hair comparison results to have probative value, it is necessary to obtain hair standards from the suspects, victim, and all elimination candidates. Remember that the results of the microscopical comparisons are based on similarities in both visual and microscopic class characteristics and the expert cannot include or exclude a potential donor of a hair without having actual hair standards to examine. Potential head or pubic hair transfer evidence must always be collected prior to the collection of hair standards and are obtained with the aid of a new, unused comb. The comb and combings are placed into a paper fold and sealed in an envelope. Modern Sexual Assault kits utilized in the state of Illinois provide for the collection of head and pubic hair combings. No envelopes or instructions exist for the collection of hair standards in these kits. Hair combings are considered questioned evidence and hair standards must be obtained as soon as possible after a crime has been committed. It should be pointed out that hair is a very common type of trace evidence that does not readily decay. It has been examined forensically for nearly a century, along with other types of evidence, and in some instances it may be the only physical evidence available in a criminal investigation. Its potential value cannot be overemphasized. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional deposition of miscellaneous hairs on items to be examined, such as clothing or bedding. This contamination can come from ambient surroundings, from law enforcement personnel, or from sample to sample cross-contamination. Cross contamination of hairs can be minimized at crime scenes with the routine use of clean, disposable garments such as, caps, booties, latex gloves and hooded coveralls. It is imperative that standards and questioned hair be packaged separately. Safety Hazards There are no specific safety risks associated with this kind of evidence. Other hazards, however, may exist warranting the exercise of universal precautions. Proper Packaging and Submission Individual hairs should be placed in a paper fold and submitted an sealed envelopes or bags to prevent loss or cross-transfer. Questioned hairs can be collected from large, or bulky item surfaces, not suitable for submission to the laboratory, with transparent lifting tape. The laboratory currently uses Scotch brand 845 Book Tape that is 3 inches wide. Another good transparent lifting tape is Scotch brand 600 Transparent Tape that is 2 inches wide. The tape rolls should always be stored in a clean resealable plastic bag when not in use. Recent hair and fiber transfers can be collected and preserved by taping and lifting off of a surface until the tape begins to lose some tackiness. The tape lift is then folded over itself so that the tacky surfaces are protected form possible contamination. The folded tape lift should be no more that 5 inches in length and the tape should be evenly folded so that no adhesive surfaces are exposed. Tape lifts can be stored in sealed envelopes. Tape lifts and all other packaging should clearly indicate the 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 20 location or person from which the sample was collected. Garments or other cloth materials should be dry and secured in paper or cardboard. Intoxicating Compounds Description of the Science Utilizing the scientific principles of chemistry, the laboratory is able to analyze unknown liquids and gases for the presence of intoxicating compounds as defined under Illinois Chapter 720, Act 690. Analytical data generated by our instrumentation is compared against known standards, allowing the forensic chemist to conclusively identify the presence of these substances. The use of compounds such as nitrous oxide, toluene, acetone, and gasoline for their intoxicating effects is prohibited by law. Special Considerations Samples must be submitted as soon as possible due to the volatility of some compounds. The laboratory should be advised of the how much time has passed between sample collection and sample submission. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include the unintentional introduction of specific compounds by sample cross-contamination. Safety Hazards Exposure to substances of unknown origin represents a significant health and safety hazard. This exposure may be through ingestion, respiration, or absorption through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Proper Packaging and Submission Liquid samples should be submitted to the laboratory in a secured and sealed vial or bottle. The sample should be kept refrigerated at all times. The sample size should be small (2ml vials are preferred). Other items that are suspected to contain intoxicating compounds should be sealed and secured in vapor tight containers, preferably arson cans. Please refer to the section on Flammables & Combustibles for other packaging information. Lamps and Filaments Description of the Science Lamp and filament examinations are relied upon to provide clarity to circumstances surrounding vehicular accidents. By examining automotive lamps and the filaments contained within them, scientists can determine if the filament was incandescent at the time the lamp was broken. This information may be valuable in assigning responsibility to the operator of one of the vehicles. Special Considerations Lamp and filament evidence can be quite fragile requiring care in packaging, transport, and submission. Vehicular information and accident sketches can also be useful to scientists examining the evidence. Susceptibility to Contamination Evidence can be contaminated if lamps broken during an accident are turned on afterward. This may expose an intact filament to ambient air causing it to appear “on” during breakage when in fact it was turned on after the accident. Safety Hazards Many lamps are under pressure and can shatter violently when broken. Sharp glass can puncture the skin and cause bleeding. As with all types of evidence, universal precautions should be practiced. 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 21 Proper Packaging and Submission Automotive lamps and bulbs should be secured and protected from impact. Styrofoam cups are excellent for securing bulbs. Protect items from impact and extreme temperatures. Paint Description of the Science Utilizing microscopical, instrumental, and chemical techniques, crime laboratories are able to compare paint samples to determine if they have a common origin. When two objects come into contact with each other, such as two vehicles or a tool being used to pry open a door, paint can be exchanged. These paint samples can then be compared to determine common source. Special Considerations As with all trace evidence, paint samples and objects suspected of bearing paint transfer should be packaged in sealed containers, wraps or paper folds. Paper folds should then be placed into envelopes. Do not package paint samples directly in envelopes or in plastic bags. These procedures will help prevent cross transfer or loss of paint. Paint chip standards must be taken from an area close to the damage but, not directly form the damaged area. If no damage is visible, obtain paint standards from multiple locations. Paint chip standards must also contain all layers down to the bare metal / substrate. Avoid obtaining paint samples by shaving or scraping. If a cross-transfer has taken place between two vehicles, paint standards should be collected from both vehicles following the same collection procedures. Loose questioned paint chips can be collected with tweezers or scooped into a paper fold. Questioned paint transfer on clothing should not be collected. In such cases, the entire garment should be packaged in a paper bag and be submitted for paint comparisons. Susceptibility to Contamination Possible sources of contamination include sample- to- sample cross contamination. Tape lifts should never be used to collect paint evidence. Adhesive residues can alter a paint sample by changing its chemical properties. Use a new, clean scalpel blade or razor blade for each sample recovered Safety Hazards Exposure to substances of unknown origin represents a significant health and safety hazard. This exposure may be through ingestion, respiration, or absorption through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Proper Packaging and Submission As mentioned above, package paint evidence to protect trace evidence from loss, cross-transfer or deleterious change. Each paint sample should be separately packaged and marked with all relevant information including the exact location that the paint was taken from and whether the sample is being submitted as a standard or as a questioned paint sample and whether the sample was collected from the suspect or victim vehicles. In some situations it may be necessary to submit a large object such as a motor vehicle part. Contact the laboratory prior to submitting such evidence. The International Forensic Automotive Paint Data Query (PDQ) PDQ is a computerized automotive database that contains chemical and color information relating to original automotive paints. This paint database was developed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in the 1970’s and computerized in the 1990’s. This tool could be useful in hit & run cases with no suspect vehicles. Analysis of paint evidence and a search of the data base may provide make, model & year of suspect motor vehicles based on original paint layers. The Illinois State Police Lab in Chicago is now up and running with PDQ and will accept such cases for testing. Paint evidence or clothing evidence taken from victims in hit & run cases with no suspect motor 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 22 vehicles should be submitted directly to the Illinois State Police Forensic Science Center in Chicago for paint testing and PDQ searches. Shoe and Tire Impressions Description of the Science Shoeprint or tire tread impressions are routinely left at crime scenes. These impressions are retained on surfaces in two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms. Almost all impressions, including partial impressions, have value for forensic comparisons. The examination of detailed shoeprint and tire tread impressions often results in the positive identification of the suspect’s shoe or tire from the suspect's vehicle. Special Considerations No evidence associated with a case in which there was no physical injury to a person and the total loss or damage suffered by the victim is less than $500, or in multiple associated cases where the loss or damage suffered by the victims is less than $1,500 will be accepted for impression examination. There may be exceptions; however, in such instances the laboratory must be contacted prior to submission. Likewise, it is important to remember that criminals are aware of their fingerprints but seldom take precautions to mask their footwear impressions. Suspect shoes must always be submitted for comparison. Furthermore, shoe soles, if worn, will continue to change after the crime is committed and therefore, time is of the essence. Susceptibility to Contamination Contamination is caused by the unintentional deposition of shoe or tire impressions on items to be examined or ground bearing impressions to be examined. Safety Hazards There are no specific safety hazards associated with this kind of evidence. Other hazards, however, may exist warranting the exercise of universal precautions. Proper Packaging and Submission Shoes and evidence should be dry prior to packaging. Also evidence should be packaged in a way that minimizes damage from jolt or impact. Questioned footwear/tire impressions in the form of a cast should be allowed to dry and no attempts should be made to clean the cast after recovery. Questioned footwear/tire impressions in the form of an Electrostatic Dust Lift should be packaged in a shallow box with the lift taped securely to the bottom of the box. Proper photographic techniques can permanently record impressions on immovable objects. The photographs can then be used to conduct comparisons. Comments The findings resulting from a shoe or tire impression comparison should be considered with the understanding that impressions can occur through completely legitimate means and do not necessarily associate a person with criminal activity. Toolmarks Description of the Science Utilizing visual and microscopical techniques, the laboratory is able to compare toolmarks left on an object at a crime scene (i.e. door, window, ATM, vending machine, etc.) with a suspect tool to determine if that tool made the recovered marks. Such examinations are possible with a very wide range of tool types and materials that may have been marked. Physical Matching involves determining if two items were once joined to form a single entity. It is commonly referred to as a fracture-match. Special Considerations Toolmark analyses and physical comparisons (fracture matching) are only conducted by this laboratory in violent crimes or cases in which the loss or damage suffered by the victim, or multiple victims in 2013 Forensic Science Handbook 23 associated cases, exceeds $20,000. There may be exceptions; however, in such instances the laboratory must be contacted prior to submission. Incident reports, to include the location of persons from which the suspect tools were recovered, are especially useful in toolmark analysis. Tools not recovered from a suspect or his property, or tools whose owner is not known, often carry little investigative value even if an identification is made. Many times, toolmark identifications are augmented by latent fingerprint identifications for the purpose of developing a suspect. Susceptibility to Contamination Contamination is caused by the unintentional marking of objects bearing questioned toolmarks, and unintentional damage imparted to the working surface of a suspect tool. Safety Hazards There are no specific safety hazards associated with this kind of evidence. Other hazards, however, may exist warranting the exercise of universal precautions. Proper Packaging and Submission Suspect tools should be packaged so that the working surfaces or edges of the tool are protected from impact or damage. Questioned toolmarks will be submitted either in the form of a cast, or on material removed from another larger object to facilitate transport. Whenever possible, the actual questioned toolmarks should be carefully cut out of the host object and transported to the laboratory. Casts are perfectly acceptable for marks that cannot be removed; however, the time to perform the laboratory toolmark examination will be lengthened. Other Resources FBI Laboratory - Quantico, Virginia 703-632-7690 Accidental Poison Identification DuPage County Health Department: (630) 682-7400 Cases involving possible intentional food or beverage contamination Illinois Department of Public Health: (312) 793-4758 or (217) 782-4977 Poison Control Center: (800) 222-1222 SET Laboratories: (847) 537-9221 Contact Bijan-Saeedi Toxicology and DUI Kits Illinois State Police Forensic Science Center at Chicago: (312) 433-8000 Contact Toxicology Unit Questioned Document (Handwriting Analysis) Illinois State Police Forensic Science Center at Springfield: (217) 782-4975N Rutledge SCLF Springfield, IL 62702-4958 2013 Forensic Science Handbook Forensic Dentistry / Bite mark examinations John P. Kenney DDS DuPage County Coroner’s Office 101 S. Washington Street Park Ridge, Il 60068-4290 (847) 698-2088 Fax: (847) 698-2091 Forensic Entomology Neal Haskell, PhD 425 Kannal Avenue Rensselaer, IN 47978 (219) 866-7824 Fax: (219) 866-7628 Soil Comparisons Skip Palenik - Microtrace Elgin, Illinois (847) 742-9909 Gunshot Residue Analysis Illinois State Police Forensic Science Center at Chicago: (312) 433-8000 Contact Trace/Microscopy Unit International Forensic Automotive Paint Data Query (PDQ) Illinois State Police Forensic Science Center at Chicago: (312) 433-8000 Contact Trace/Microscopy Unit 24