Rhode Island State Health Laboratories

Forensics

Evidence Collection in Forensic Biology

NOTE: These are recommended guidelines only and are not an all-inclusive Standard Operating Procedure.
Evidence Collection on Immovable Objects
Dry Stains

• moisten sterile cotton tip swabs with sterile water
• rub swabs over stain until blood is picked up
• allow swabs to air dry
• package in clean paper, coin envelopes or similar
• seal so that tampering would be evident and place initials over seal
• clearly label outer package

Wet Stains

• soak up stain with sterile cotton tip swabs or clean cotton sheeting (preferably not gauze)
• allow to air dry
• package in clean paper, coin envelopes or similar
• seal so that tampering would be evident and place initials over seal
• clearly label outer package

Note: for large stains, use several swabs held closely together and coat each one evenly with stain. For smaller stains, use only one or two swabs, and concentrate onto tip.
Evidence Collection – Small objects, clothing, bedding, etc.

• If possible use a UV light or Alternate Light Source to detect seminal fluid stains
• If item is relatively small, collect the entire item
• For large items (such as a couch) cut out stained area. Also cut out an unstained area as a negative control
• Allow items to air dry - do not package wet items as this will increase chances of degradation
• Package in paper bags or paper wrapping, seal so that tampering would be evident and place initials over seal
• Clearly label outer package

Known Standards for DNA testing – Refer to DNA Analysis Protocol
Delivering Evidence to Laboratory

• Fill out as much information as possible on the Evidence Examination Request Form FSL-form #008
• Evidence is accepted at 50 Orms Street, Providence, RI Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
• Evidence is routinely accepted by the Evidence Control Technician on the 3rd floor, RM #306
• The laboratory technical staff is available on the 1st floor, RM #130 if you would like to discuss a case, or if you have specific questions regarding a case

Services Currently Offered
Serology – routinely performed on all analyzed items

• seminal fluid ID
• human blood ID
• animal blood ID
• urine ID
• saliva ID
• trace evidence collection (hairs, fibers, debris)
• fabric separations noted

DNA testing – refer to DNA Analysis Protocol

• seminal fluid
• human blood
• saliva from envelopes, stamps, cigarette butts, cups etc.
• hairs (with roots)
• other – please call the lab