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Physical Evidence Collection for Medical Personnel

NCJ Number
106646
Journal
AFTE Journal Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1985) Pages: 69-78
Author(s)
S R Hanson
Date Published
1985
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper presents the results of surveys of law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and medical personnel on the collection of physical evidence and their implications for training. Also described is a training curriculum.
Abstract
The results elucidated the existence of a wide array of problems related to the loss or destruction of physical evidence by medical personnel and revealed the need for improved communication between the law enforcement and medical communities, as well as a need for medical personnel training in the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence. To improve performance of medical personnel, a course was developed. The course is designed to ensure the initiation of the proper chain of custody for evidence, to guarantee the use of common terminology in wound description, and to provide an understanding of the legal and investigative considerations in handling evidence. Also covered are the various types of evidence that may be discovered with respect to wounds, clothing, and biological fluids and their importance to investigation. 12 references.