Handbook of Forensic Services

7/27/2019 Handbook of Forensic Services

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Handbook of Forensic Services(revised 2007)

Editor

Kim Waggoner

Editorial Assistant

Kathryn H. Suchma

Graphic DesignSandra D. Holliday

An FBI Laboratory Publication

Federal Bureau of InvestigationQuantico, Virginia

ISBN 10: 0160793769ISBN 13: 978-0-16-079376-9


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Table of Contents

I n t r o d u c t i o n . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Submitting Evidence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Evidence Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Crime Scene Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Crime Scene Search . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185


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Handbook of Forensic Services 2007

Introduction

The Handbook of Forensic Servicesprovidesguidance and procedures for safe and efcientmethods of collecting, preserving, packaging, andshipping evidence and describes the forensicexaminations performed by the FBIs LaboratoryDivision and Operational Technology Division.

FBI Forensic Services

The successful investigation and prosecution ofcrimes require, in most cases, the collection,preservation, and forensic analysis of evidence.Forensic analysis of evidence is often crucial to

determinations of guilt or innocence.

The FBI has one of the largest and mostcomprehensive forensic laboratories in the world,and the FBI Laboratory is accredited by theAmerican Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board. The forensic

services of the FBI Laboratory Division and theOperational Technology Division are available tothe following:

FBI eld ofces and legal attachs.

I NTRODUCTI ON


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U.S. attorneys, military tribunals, and otherfederal agencies for civil and criminal matters.

State, county, and municipal lawenforcement agencies in the United Statesand territorial possessions for criminalmatters.

All forensic services, including expert witness

testimonies, are rendered free of cost; however,the following limitations apply:

No examination will be conducted onevidence that has been previously subjectedto the same type of examination. Exceptionsmay be granted when there are reasons for a

reexamination. These reasons should beexplained in separate letters from the directorof the laboratory that conducted the originalexamination, the prosecuting attorney, and theinvestigating agency.

No request for an examination will beaccepted from laboratories having thecapability of conducting the examination.Exceptions may be granted upon approval ofthe FBI Laboratory Director or a designee.

No testimony will be furnished if testimony on

the same subject and in the same case is


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provided for the prosecution by anotherexpert.

No request for an examination will beaccepted from a nonfederal lawenforcement agency in civil matters.

In addition, when submitting evidence to the FBILaboratory, contributors acknowledge the

following:

FBI examiners will choose appropriatetechnical processes to address thecontributors request for examination.

Depending on the caseload of the Laboratory

and the needs of the contributor, evidenceexaminations may be subcontracted.

An FBI Laboratory Report of Examination maycontain the opinions and/or interpretations ofthe examiner(s) who issued the report.

Violent Crime Versus Property Crime

The FBI accepts evidence related to all crimesunder investigation by FBI eld ofces; however, itaccepts from state and local law enforcementagencies only evidence related to violent crime


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investigations. The FBI does not routinely acceptevidence from state and local law enforcement

agencies in cases involving property crimesunless there was personal injury or intent to causepersonal injury. These guidelines help to ensurethat the FBI continues to provide timely forensicassistance to law enforcement agenciesinvestigating crimes of violence or threatenedviolence. Additional restrictions may be imposed

on case acceptance to achieve this goal.

At the discretion of the FBI Laboratory Director ora designee, the FBI may accept evidence fromproperty crime cases. Such exceptions will beconsidered on a case-by-case basis and shouldnot be regarded as setting a precedent for future

case acceptance. All accepted cases will beafforded the full range of forensic servicesprovided by the FBI.

The following are examples of property crimesthat are not routinely accepted for examinations:

Arson of unoccupied residential andcommercial buildings and property.

Explosive incidents and hoaxes targetingunoccupied residential and commercialbuildings and property.


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Vandalism and malicious mischief directedtoward residential or commercial buildings

and property.

Nonfatal trafc accidents involvingspeedometer and headlight examinationsexcept in cases involving law enforcementand government ofcials.

Hit-and-run automobile accidents not involvingpersonal injury.

Automobile theft, except automobile theftrings or carjackings.

Breaking and entering.

Burglary.

Minor theft (under $100,000).

Minor fraud (under $100,000).

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SUBMI SSI ONS

Submitting Evidence

Requesting Evidence Examinations

All requests for evidence examinations should bein writing, on agency letterhead, and addressed tothe FBI Laboratory Evidence Control Unit, unlessotherwise indicated in the Examinations section.

Do not submit multiple cases under a singlecommunication. Each case should be submittedwith a separate communication and packagedseparately.

All international law enforcement agency/

police requests should be coordinatedthrough the appropriate FBI legal attach(LEGAT). LEGATs should fax the request to theEvidence Control Unit, 703-632-8334, prior tosubmitting any evidence to the Laboratory.Questions concerning internationalsubmissions should be directed to

703-632-8360.

Requests for evidence examinations must containthe following information:

The submitting contact persons name,agency, address, and telephone number.


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Previous case-identication numbers,evidence submissions, and communications

relating to the case.

Description of the nature and the basic factsof the case as they pertain to evidenceexaminations.

The name(s) of and descriptive data about the

individual(s) involved (subject, suspect, victim,or a combination of those categories) and theagency-assigned case-identication number.

The name of the prosecutor assigned, ifavailable.

A list of the evidence being submittedherewith (enclosed) or under separatecover.

Herewithis limited to small itemsof evidence that are not endangered bytransmitting in an envelope. Write on theenvelope before placing evidence insideto avoid damaging or altering theevidence. The written communicationshould state: Submitted herewith arethe following items of evidence.


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Separate coveris used to ship numerousor bulky items of evidence. Include a copy

of the communication requesting theexaminations. The written communicationshould state: Submitted under separatecover by [list the method of shipment]are the following items of evidence.

What type(s) of examination(s) is/are

requested.

Where the evidence should be returned andwhere the Laboratory report should be sent.A street address must be included.

A statement if the evidence was previously

examined, if there is local controversy, or ifother law enforcement agencies have aninterest in the case.

Packaging and Shipping Evidence

Prior to packaging and shipping evidence, callthe pertinent unit for specic instructions.

Take precautions to preserve the evidence.

Wrap and seal each item of evidenceseparately to avoid contamination.


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Place the evidence in a clean, dry, andpreviously unused inner container.

Seal the inner container with tamper-evidentor lament tape.

Afx EVIDENCE and BIOHAZARD labels, ifappropriate, on the inner container. If any ofthe evidence needs to be examined for latent

prints, afx a LATENT label on the innercontainer.

Afx the evidence examination request and allcase information between the inner and outercontainers.

Place the sealed inner container in a clean,dry, and previously unused outer containerwith clean packing materials. Do not useloose Styrofoam.

Completely seal the outer container so that

tampering with the container would beevident.

All shipments of suspected or conrmedhazardous materialsmust comply with U.S.Department of Transportation andInternational Air Transport Association


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regulations. Title 49 of the Code of FederalRegulations (CFR) lists specic requirements

that must be observed when preparinghazardous materials for shipment by air, land,or sea. In addition, the International AirTransport Association annually publishesDangerous Goods Regulationsdetailing howto prepare and package shipments for airtransportation.

Title 49 CFR 172.101 provides a HazardousMaterials Table that identies itemsconsidered hazardous for the purpose oftransportation. Title 49 CFR 172.101 alsoaddresses special provisions for certainmaterials, hazardous materials

communications, emergency responseinformation, and training requirements forshippers. A trained and qualied evidencetechnician must assist with the typing,labeling, packaging, and shipping of allhazardous materials.

U.S. Department of Transportation regulationsand the following guidelines must be followedwhen shipping live ammunition:

Package and ship ammunition separatelyfrom rearm(s).


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The outside of the container must belabeled ORM-D, CARTRIDGES, SMALL

ARMS.

The Declaration of Dangerous Goodsmust include the number of packagesand the gross weight in grams of thecompleted packages.

Unless otherwise indicated in theExaminationssection, address theouter container as follows:

EVIDENCE CONTROL UNITLABORATORY DIVISIONFEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

2501 INVESTIGATION PARKWAYQUANTICO VA 22135

Ship evidence by U.S. Postal ServiceRegistered Mail, UPS, or FedEx. Record themethod of shipment and the trackingnumber(s) on the chain-of-custody form.

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EXAMI NATI ONS

Evidence Examinations

Abrasives. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Ink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79Adhesives . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Latent Prints . . . . . . . . . . . 80Anthropology . . . . . . . . . . 15 Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Arson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Metallurgy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Missing Persons . . . . . . . . 94Bank Security Dyes . . . . . 21 Paint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100Building Materials . . . . . . . 22 Pepper Spray

Bullet Jacket Alloys. . . . . . 23 or Foam. . . . . . . . . . . . 103Caulk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Pharmaceuticals . . . . . . . 104Chemical Unknowns. . . . . 2 4 Polymers. . . . . . . . . . . . . 104Computers . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Product Tampering. . . . . . 106Controlled Substances . . . 29 Questioned Documents . . 107Cordage. . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Racketeering Records . . . . 31Crime Scene Surveys, Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Documentation, and Safe Insulation . . . . . . . . . 118

Reconstruction . . . . . . . 31 Sealants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Cryptanalysis. . . . . . . . . . 31 Serial Numbers . . . . . . . . 119Demonstrative Evidence. . 33 Shoe Prints . . . . . . . . . . . 121Disaster Squad. . . . . . . . . 61 Soil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131DNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Special-Event andElectronic Devices. . . . . . 56 Situational AwarenessExplosives . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Support. . . . . . . . . . . . 133Explosives Residue . . . . . 60 Tape. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Feathers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tire Treads. . . . . . . . . . . . 121Fibers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Toolmarks . . . . . . . . . . . . 135Firearms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Toxicology. . . . . . . . . . . . 138Forensic Facial Imaging . . 68 Video. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Weapons of MassHair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Destruction . . . . . . . . . 144Image Analysis . . . . . . . . . 72 Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146


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Abrasives Examinations

Examinations may determine the type of abrasivematerial used to sabotage engines or machinery.

Questions concerning abrasives evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-8441. Follow theevidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence Examinationsand

Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

Employ personnel familiar with the operationsand mechanics of engines and machinery torecover abrasives.

Abrasives settle in oil and fuel. Submit the oil

and fuel from the engine pump and/or lters.

Abrasives embed in bearings and other parts.Submit the bearings and other parts.

Submit abrasives in heat-sealed or resealableplastic bags or paint cans. Do not use paperor glass containers.

Adhesive, Caulk, and SealantExaminations

Adhesives, caulks, and sealants can be compared

by color and chemical composition with suspected


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remains. Damage to bone such as cuts, blunt-force trauma, and bullet holes also may be

examined. Personal identications can be madeby comparing X-rays of a known individual withskeletal remains.

Anthropological examinations usually areconducted on bones sent to the Laboratory forDNA analysis or facial reproductions.

Questions concerning anthropologicalevidence should be directed to 703-632-8449.Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

Clean and air-dry bones, if possible. Pack inpaper bags and wrap in protective materialsuch as Bubble Wrap or paper. If tissue ispresent on the skeletal material, refrigerateuntil mailing, and then ship in a Styrofoamcooler.

Collect insect samples found on the remainsin leakproof containers such as lm canistersor plastic pill bottles. Call the Laboratory at703-632-8449for additional instructions.

Submit medical records and X-rays, if possible.

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Audio Examinations

Audio examinations are conducted by the FBIsOperational Technology Division (OTD), DigitalEvidence Laboratory (DEL), Forensic Audio,Video, and Image Analysis Unit (FAVIAU). TheOTD DEL has different acceptance criteria and adifferent physical address than the FBI Laboratory,as described below.

Authenticity

Authenticity examinations are conducted todetermine whether audio recordings are original,continuous, unaltered, and consistent with theoperation of the recording device used to makethe recording.

Enhancement

Enhancement examinations are conducted toselectively reduce interfering noise on audiorecordings to improve the intelligibility.

Voice ComparisonsSpectrographic examinations compare anunknown recorded voice sample with a knownverbatim voice exemplar produced on a similartransmission-and-recording device such as thetelephone. Decisions regarding spectrographicvoice comparisons are not conclusive. The results


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of voice comparisons are provided forinvestigative guidance only.

Signal Analysis

Signal analysis examinations are conducted toidentify, compare, and interpret such signals asgunshots and telephone touch tones.

Damaged Media

Audio recordings can be repaired, restored, orretrieved for playback and examination, if damageis not too extensive.

Questions concerning audio examinationsshould be directed to 703-985-1393. Questionsconcerning audio evidence should be directedto 703-985-1388.

Audio examinations may not be submitted directlyfrom entities outside the FBI. State, local, orinternational agency cases must be submitted bythe FBI eld ofce servicing the area and must

meet one of the following two criteria: 1) the state,local, or international case has a nexus to anongoing FBI investigation or 2) the FBI divisionhead deems that the case is of enough regionalimportance to merit the dedication of federalresources to the state, local, or international case.These criteria shall be met with a written


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statement from the division head (Special Agent inCharge). FBI entities may submit cases directly.

Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence Examinationsand Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

Write-protect the original recording, whichmay include nalizing CD and DVD media.

Submit original audio recordings.

Identify known and questioned voice samples.

Label the outer container FRAGILE,SENSITIVE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT or

FRAGILE, SENSITIVE AUDIO/VIDEOMEDIA and KEEP AWAY FROM MAGNETSOR MAGNETIC FIELDS.

Address the outer container as follows:

FORENSIC PROGRAMBUILDING 27958AENGINEERING RESEARCH FACILITYFEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIONQUANTICO VA 22135

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Bank Security Dye Examinations

Bank dye packs contain dye to stain money andclothing and tear gas to disorient a robber. Itemssuch as money and clothing can be analyzed forthe presence of bank security dye and tear gas.

Questions concerning bank security dyeevidence should be directed to 703-632-8441.


Only evidence with visible red or pink stainswill be examined.

Do not submit large stained evidence (e.g.,car seats). When possible, cut a small sampleof the stained area and submit in a heat-sealed or resealable plastic bag. Collect anunstained control sample, package separately,and submit it with the dye-stained evidence.

When cutting is not possible, transferquestioned stains by rubbing with a clean (dryor wet with alcohol) cotton swab. Use anunstained swab as a control. Air-dry the swaband pack in a heat-sealed or resealableplastic bag.


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Building Materials Examinations

Examinations can compare building materialssuch as brick, mortar, plaster, stucco, cement, andconcrete.

Questions concerning building materialsevidence should be directed to 703-632-8449.Follow the evidence submission directions,

including Requesting Evidence Examinationsand Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

When building materials are penetrated ordamaged, debris can adhere to people,clothing, tools, bags, and stolen items and cantransfer to vehicles. If possible, submit theevidence to the Laboratory for examiners toremove the debris. Package each item ofevidence in a separate paper bag. Do notprocess tools for latent prints.

Collect known samples from the penetrated or

damaged areas.

Ship known and questioned debris separatelyto avoid contamination. Submit known andquestioned debris in leakproof containerssuch as lm canisters or plastic pill bottles. Donot use paper or glass containers. Pack to

keep lumps intact.


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Bullet Jacket Alloy Examinations

Elemental analysis of bullet jackets can be donewhen a bullet has fragmented so that individualpieces cannot be used for comparison with test-red ammunition from a rearm or in the absenceof a rearm or the lead component of the bullet.This analysis may be helpful when there aremultiple shooters and types of jacketed

ammunition. Alloy classication can differentiateamong bullet jacket alloys of different manufactur-ers or among the bullet jacket alloys inmanufacturers production lines.

Questions concerning bullet jacket alloyexaminations should be directed to 703-632-8441. Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

Ammunition components such as bullets,cartridge cases, and shotshell casings can be

sent via Registered Mail through the U.S.Postal Service. Evidence must be packagedseparately with the date, time, location,collectors name, case number, and evidencenumber written on the container.


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U.S. Department of Transportation regulationsand the following guidelines must be followed

when shipping live ammunition:

Package and ship ammunition separatelyfrom rearm(s).

The outside of the container must belabeled ORM-D, CARTRIDGES, SMALL

ARMS.

The Declaration of Dangerous Goodsmust include the number of package(s)and the gross weight in grams of thecompleted package(s).

Do not mark bullets, cartridges, cartridgecases, shotshells, or shotshell casings. Thedate, time, location, collectors name, casenumber, and evidence number must be on thecontainer.

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Chemical Examinations of GeneralUnknowns

General unknowns include powders, liquids, andstains that are of indeterminate origin or cannot bereadily classied. Full identication of an unknown

may not always be possible; however, generalclassication of a substance is usually achievable.


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When comparison samples are available, it maybe possible to comment regarding the consistency

of the unknown substance compared with aknown sample.

Call the Laboratory at 703-632-8441 prior tosubmitting general unknowns to ensure thatthe evidence will be accepted for examination.The communication accompanying the evidence

must reference the telephone conversationaccepting the evidence.

Questions concerning examinations of generalunknowns should be directed to 703-632-8441.Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence Examinations

and Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

Submit powder and liquid samples inleakproof containers.

Do not submit large stained evidence. When

possible, cut a small sample of the stained areaand submit in a heat-sealed or resealable plasticbag. Collect an unstained control sample,package separately, and submit it with the stainedevidence. When cutting is not possible, transferquestioned stains by rubbing with a clean (dry orwet with alcohol) cotton swab. Use an unstained


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swab as a control. Air-dry the swab and pack in aheat-sealed or resealable plastic bag.

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Computer Examinations

Content

Examinations can determine what type of datales are on a computer.

Comparison

Examinations can compare data les with knowndocuments and data les.

Transaction

Examinations can determine the time andsequence that data les were created.

Extraction

Data les can be extracted from the computer orcomputer storage media.

Deleted Data FilesDeleted data les can be recovered from thecomputer or computer storage media.

Format Conversion

Data les can be converted from one format toanother.


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Keyword Searching

Data les can be searched for a word or phrase

and all occurrences recorded.

Passwords

Passwords can be recovered and used to decryptencoded les.

Limited Source Code

Source code can be analyzed and compared.

Call the Computer Analysis Response Team at703-985-1302 to request a search or eldexamination. Submit requests at least oneweek in advance.

Obtain as much of the following information aspossible prior to submitting a request:

Determine the type(s) of computers andoperating systems.

If applicable, determine the type of networksoftware, the location of the network servers,and the number of computers on the network.

Determine whether encryption and/orpassword protection is used.


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Specify whether a seizure of computers andmedia or an on-site examination is required.

Questions concerning computer evidenceshould be directed to 703-985-1302. Follow theevidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

For most examinations, submit only thecentral processing units and the internal andexternal storage media.

Use a sturdy cardboard container whenshipping computer components. If possible,use the original packing case with the tted

padding. Use large plastic Bubble Wrap orfoam rubber pads as packing. Do not useloose Styrofoam because it lodges insidecomputers and components and creates staticcharges that can cause data loss or damageto circuit boards. Seal the container with a

strong packing tape.

Pack and ship central processing units in theupright position. Label the outside containerTHIS END UP.


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Disks, cartridges, tapes, and hard drives mustbe packed to avoid movement during

shipping.

Label the outer container FRAGILE,SENSITIVE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT andKEEP AWAY FROM MAGNETS ORMAGNETIC FIELDS.



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Controlled Substance Examinations

Controlled substance examinations can establishtrace-drug presence, identity, and quantity.

Bulk DrugsThe Laboratory limits the quantity of bulk drugsthat it will analyze. Quantities exceeding 100grams of suspected marijuana or 10 grams of allother suspected drugs including cocaine,methamphetamine, and heroin will be returnedunanalyzed. The Laboratory usually analyzes onlydrugs seized in federal investigations.


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Drug Residue

Requests for drug residue examinations on

evidence will be accepted only when the evidenceis properly packaged to avoid contamination. Drugresidue examinations of currency are performedonly on a limited basis.

Call the Laboratory at 703-632-8441 prior tosubmitting drugs or currency to ensure that

the evidence will be accepted for examination.The communication accompanying the evidencemust reference the telephone conversationaccepting the evidence.

Questions concerning controlled substanceevidence should be directed to 703-632-8441.

Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

Submit evidence in separate heat-sealed orresealable plastic bags.

Fold clothing to preserve trace evidence.

Do not submit used drug eld-test kits withevidence.

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Crime Scene Surveys, Documentation,and Reconstruction

Visual information specialists receive data fromthe eld or travel to the eld to collect it. They thenuse the data to prepare two- and three-dimensional digital or physical crime scenereconstructions as well as computer animations ormodels that depict bullet trajectory, line-of-sight

analysis, and vehicular-, human-, or object-movement analysis.

Questions concerning crime scene surveys,documentation, and reconstruction should bedirected to 703-632-8194.

Cryptanalysis and RacketeeringRecord Examinations

Cryptanalysis

Cryptanalysis examinations involve the analysis ofencoded and enciphered documents used by

terrorists, foreign intelligence agents, violentcriminals, street and prison gangs, and organizedcrime groups. Encrypted documents may be faxedor e-mailed for immediate decryption. Call703-632-7356 or703-632-7334for contactinformation.


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revenues, and other nancial and organizationalinformation.

Questions concerning cryptanalysis andracketeering record evidence should bedirected to 703-632-7356 or 703-632-7334.Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence Examinationsand Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

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Demonstrative Evidence

Visual information specialists prepare a wide arrayof demonstrative evidence for investigative andprosecutorial purposes. These items includecharts, maps, diagrams, illustrations, andanimated and digitally interactive presentations.

Questions concerning demonstrative evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-8194.

DNA Examinations

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is analyzed in body-uid stains and other biological tissues recoveredfrom items of evidence. The results of DNA testingon evidence samples are compared with theresults of DNA analysis of reference samples

collected from known individuals. Such analyses


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can associate victims and suspects with eachother, with evidence items, or with a crime scene.

There are two types of DNA used in forensicanalyses. Nuclear DNA (nDNA) is the morediscriminating of the two types and is typicallyanalyzed in evidence containing blood, semen,saliva, body tissue, and hairs that have tissue attheir root ends. The power of nDNA testing doneby the DNA Analysis Unit I (DNAUI) lies in its

ability to potentially identify an individual as beingthe source of the DNA obtained from an evidenceitem to a reasonable degree of scientic certainty,as well as the denitive power of exclusion.Additionally, where appropriate, the DNA-typingresults from evidence items (including itemsrelated to missing persons) examined in the

DNAUI may be uploaded into the Combined DNAIndex System (CODIS) database.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is typically analyzedin evidence containing naturally shed hairs, hairfragments, bones, and teeth. Typically, these

items contain low concentrations of degradedDNA, making them unsuitable for nDNAexaminations. The high sensitivity of mtDNAanalysis allows scientists to obtain informationfrom old items of evidence associated with coldcases, samples from mass disasters, and smallpieces of evidence containing little biological


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material. Additionally, the maternal inheritance ofmtDNA allows scientists to compare a mtDNA

prole to reference samples from that personsmother, brother(s), sister(s), or any othermaternally related individuals. All of theseindividuals have the same mtDNA prolesbecause all maternal relatives inherit their mtDNAfrom their mother. Because multiple individualscan have the same mtDNA type, unique identica-

tions are not possible using mtDNA analysis.However, mtDNA performed by the DNA AnalysisUnit II is an excellent technique to use forobtaining information when nDNA analysis is notfeasible. Additionally, the mtDNA-typing resultsrelated to missing-person cases may be uploadedinto the CODIS database.

Questions concerning nuclear DNA testingshould be directed to 703-632-8446. Questionsconcerning mitochondrial DNA testing shouldbe directed to 703-632-7572. Follow theevidence submission directions, including

Requesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

Case Acceptance Policy of the DNAAnalysis Unit I

The DNAUI accepts FBI cases for serological

and nDNA analysis. FBI cases are prioritized


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according to the FBIs priorities of counter-terrorism; cyber-based/high-technology

crimes; public corruption; civil rights;transnational/national criminal organizations/enterprises; major white-collar crime;signicant violent crime; and support of local,state, federal, and international agencies. Thisincludes examinations that characterizebiological stains and may identify the source

of a stain on an evidentiary item.

The DNAUI accepts cases from FBI eldofces and legal attachs (LEGATs); otherfederal agencies (e.g., Bureau of Indian

Affairs, DEA); U.S. attorneys ofces; militarytribunals; and duly constituted state, county,

and municipal law enforcement agencies inthe United States and its territories. TheDNAUI also accepts cases that are submittedto the Laboratory from international lawenforcement agencies through the FBILEGATs.

Cases are accepted provided that:

The submitting agency is not served byanother government forensic DNAlaboratory.

1.


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The submitted case has not beenexamined previously by another

laboratory.

Case Consideration Policy

The DNAUI supports the National MissingPerson DNA Database (NMPDD) Program.Cases must be submitted through an NMPDD

Program Manager for entry into the BiologicalRelatives of Missing Persons or UnidentiedHuman Remains Indexes. The NMPDDprovides investigators with an opportunity toidentify missing and unidentied persons on anational level.

The DNAUI maintains the Federal ConvictedOffender (FCO) Program, which supports thecollection and nDNA analysis of samplescollected from more than 500 sites across theUnited States.

The DNAUI requires known referencesample(s) for comparison with evidencematerials. DNA proles located in the NationalDNA Index System (NDIS) ConvictedOffender database cannot be used asreferences.

2.


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The DNAUI does not conduct low-copy-number (LCN) or touch DNA examinations

(i.e., DNA from ngerprints, pieces of paper,handled objects, etc.). Items such as steeringwheels and rearms may be appropriate foranalysis.

The DNAUI does not perform kinship analysis.Questions concerning kinship, paternity/

maternity comparisons, etc., should bedirected to the DNAUI at 703-632-8446.

As necessary:

DNAUI cases may be prioritized according toscheduled trial dates or other case-specic

information.

The DNAUI does not examine evidence fromproperty crime cases unless violence thatresults in bodily harm is used in thecommission of the crime.

For cases in which the FBI Laboratory hasconducted previous DNA or serologicaltesting, a review of the case le will beconducted to determine if additionalexaminations will be conducted.


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Case Acceptance Policy of the DNAAnalysis Unit II

All FBI cases that meet the suitability guidelines(outlined below) will be considered for mtDNAanalysis in the DNAUII. Cases involving terrorismare given highest priority, followed bycounterintelligence matters and violent crimes.Questions regarding case and evidence suitability

should be directed to the DNAUII at703-632-7572.

State and local law enforcement agencies needingmtDNA analysis must contact the DNAUII for moreinformation regarding evidence submission.Agencies may call 703-632-7572to discuss the

needs of the investigation and the evidence,following the suitability guidelines outlined below.Analysis of the evidence will be performed by oneof the units regional mtDNA laboratories and iscost-free to state and local law enforcementagencies in the United States and its territories.

Travel expenses for examiners testifying in stateand local cases are also paid by the FBILaboratory. FBI entities may refer to the FBILaboratory/DNAUII web page on the FBI intranetfor additional information on the regional mtDNAlaboratories.


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Missing-person cases involving unidentiedhuman remains and relatives of missing persons

are managed and entered into the NDIS in theDNAUII by members of the NMPDD Program.Evidence from these investigations alsoundergoes mtDNA analysis in the DNAUII or inone of the regional mtDNA laboratories. Contactthe NMPDD Program Manager at 703-632-7582for questions regarding missing-person evidence

submission. FBI entities may refer to the FBILaboratory/DNAUII web page on the FBI intranetfor additional information on the NMPDD Program.

Suitability of Mitochondrial DNA Analysis

Mitochondrial DNA analysis has been applied

successfully to evidence from violent crimes,typically homicide, sexual assault, and assault. Itis important to remember, however, that mtDNAanalysis is appropriate in only a small portion ofcases where mtDNA evidence is present.

Experience shows that about 75 percent of casesin which mtDNA analysis is actually performedinvolve hair evidence where only the hair shaft ispresent. Most often, mtDNA analysis is justied forhair evidence when no tissue is present on thehair root. Mitochondrial DNA analysis in missing-person cases is appropriate only when bone or


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teeth specimens can be veried as of humanorigin.

To avoid the misapplication of mtDNA analysisresources, cases must be reviewed carefully fortheir scenarios, the possibility of other tests onavailable evidence (e.g., nDNA), and the selectionof specimens having the greatest probative value.

Regardless of the type of biological evidence,mtDNA analysis generally will not be performedwhen nDNA results exist on items of similar origin.For example, if nDNA results are obtained fromsemen identied on a victims vaginal swabs andthere is no allegation of multiple assailants,mtDNA analysis would not be performed on an

associated pubic hair found in the pubic-haircombings of the victim.

Current forensic mtDNA techniques cannoteffectively distinguish between sources or relativequantities of DNA. Consequently, mtDNA is not

appropriate for evidence containing possiblemixed sources of DNAsuch as semen stains fromsexual assaults.

Mitochondrial DNA analysis generally will not beperformed on bloodstainsunless the victimsreference samples are not available or other


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appropriate reference samples are unavailable fornDNA analysis. For example, a kidnapping victim

is missing, but a bloodstain is found in thesuspects vehicle and only a maternal relatives(e.g., mother, sibling) reference sample isavailable for the victim. In that case, mtDNAanalysis could be conducted using a portion of thevehicle bloodstain, the maternal relativesreference sample, and the suspects known

sample.

Mitochondrial DNA Analysis of Hair Evidence

Mitochondrial DNA analysis should be performedon probative hair samples only if they are deemedunsuitablefor nDNA analysis. Only those hairs

having greatest probative value should besubjected to mtDNA analysis. If several similarprobative hair specimens are submitted from onesource of evidence, mtDNA analysis should beperformed on only 12 hairs. For example, if 10hairs collected from a victims body aremicroscopically associated with the suspect, nomore than 2 hairs will be analyzed.

Submission guidelines for mtDNA cases mustinclude the following points for hair evidence:


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Known victim hair samples (of all types) mustbe submitted to determine whether evidence

hairs are similar or dissimilar to the victimshair.

If evidence includes specimens dissimilar tothe victim, known suspect hair samples (of alltypes) should be obtained.

Mitochondrial DNA analysis generally will beperformed on all probative microscopic hairassociations. In addition, the following types ofhairs are considered for mtDNA analysis, ifprobative:

Hairs that exhibit microscopic similarities and

slight differences (e.g., because of prolongedtime between the crime and collection ofreference samples, environmental or articialchanges to hair, or the suitability of referencesamples or questioned hair).

Hairs that are not suitable for microscopiccomparison purposes (e.g., body-area hairs,hair fragments, or any other factor thateliminates the possibility of performing acomparison). In such cases, however, the hairmust be probative (e.g., apparent foreign hairin the pubic-hair combing of the victim).


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Hairs that are suitable for microscopiccomparison purposes but, for valid reasons,

are not suitable to compare with the pertinentreference sample (e.g., hair deposited 10years prior to the collection of the referencehair sample, reference sample is from anindividual whose hair is articially treated afterthe crime date). Regardless, the hair must beprobative.

Unidentied Human Remains

Prior to mtDNA analysis, bone or teeth specimensshould be examined by a forensic anthropologistor odontologist or a similarly qualied individual.Submissions of such items should beaccompanied by a written report that verieshuman origin by a qualied expert.

Documenting, Collecting, Packaging, andPreserving DNA Evidence

If DNA evidence is not properly documented,

collected, packaged, and preserved, it will notmeet the legal and scientic requirements foradmissibility in a court of law.

If DNA evidence is not properly documented,its origin can be questioned.


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If it is not properly collected, biological activitycan be lost.

If it is not properly packaged, contaminationcan occur.

If it is not properly preserved, decompositionand deterioration can occur.

When DNA evidence is transferred by direct orsecondary (indirect) means, it remains onsurfaces by absorption or adherence. In general,liquid biological evidence is absorbed intosurfaces, and solid biological evidence adheres tosurfaces. Collecting, packaging, and preservingDNA evidence depends on the liquid or solid state

and the condition of the evidence.

The more evidence retains its original integrityuntil it reaches the Laboratory, the greater thepossibility of conducting useful examinations. Itmay be necessary to use a variety of techniques

to collect suspected body-uid evidence.

Collecting Known Samples

Blood

Only qualied medical personnel shouldcollect blood samples from a person.


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Collect at least two 5-mL tubes of blood inpurple-top tubes, which contain EDTA as a

preservative, for DNA analysis. Collect drug oralcohol-testing samples in gray-top tubes,which contain NaF (sodium uoride).

Label each tube with the date, time, personsname, location, collectors name, casenumber, and evidence number.

Refrigerate, do not freeze, liquid bloodsamples (tubes may break if frozen). Use coldpacks, not dry ice, during shipping.

Pack liquid blood tubes individually inStyrofoam or cylindrical tubes with absorbent

material surrounding the tubes.

Package blood samples from differentindividuals separately.

Label the outer container KEEP IN A COOL,

DRY PLACE, REFRIGERATE ONARRIVAL, and BIOHAZARD.

Submit to the Laboratory as soon as possible.


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Buccal (Oral) Swabs

Use clean cotton swabs to collect buccal(oral) samples. Rub the inside surfaces ofthe cheeks thoroughly.

Air-dry the swabs and place in clean paperor an envelope with sealed corners. Do notuse plastic containers.

Identify each sample with the date, time,persons name, location, collectors name,case number, and evidence number.

Package oral samples from differentindividuals separately.

Buccal samples do not need to berefrigerated.

Submit to the Laboratory as soon as possible.

If a reference blood or oral sample cannot beobtained, an alternate reference sample maybe submitted (for nuclear examinations only).This may include such items as surgicalsamples, Pap smear slides, pulled teeth, or atoothbrush or item of clothing known to beused solely by the individual of interest.


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Blood on a Person

Absorb suspected liquid blood onto a cleancotton cloth or swab. Air-dry the cloth or swaband pack in clean paper or an envelope withsealed corners. Do not use plastic containers.

Absorb suspected dried blood onto a cleancotton cloth or swab moistened with distilled

water. Air-dry the cloth or swab and pack inclean paper or an envelope with sealedcorners. Do not use plastic containers.

Blood on Surfaces or in Snow or Water

Absorb suspected liquid blood or blood clots

onto a clean cotton cloth or swab. Air-dry thecloth or swab and pack in clean paper or anenvelope with sealed corners. Do not useplastic containers.

Collect suspected blood in snow or waterimmediately to avoid further dilution. Eliminateas much snow as possible. Place in a clean,airtight container. Freeze the evidence andsubmit to the Laboratory as soon as possible.


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Bloodstains

Air-dry suspected wet bloodstained garments.Wrap dried bloodstained garments in cleanpaper. Do not place wet or dried garments inplastic or airtight containers. Place all debrisor residue from the garments in clean paperor an envelope with sealed corners.

Air-dry small suspected wet bloodstainedobjects and submit the objects to theLaboratory. Preserve bloodstain patterns.Avoid creating additional stain patterns duringdrying and packaging. Pack to prevent stainremoval by abrasive action during shipping.Pack in clean paper. Do not use plastic

containers.

When possible, cut a large sample ofsuspected bloodstains from immovableobjects with a clean, sharp instrument. Packto prevent stain removal by abrasive action

during shipping. Pack in clean paper. Do notuse plastic containers.

Absorb suspected dried bloodstains onimmovable objects onto a clean cotton clothor swab moistened with distilled water. Air-drythe cloth or swab and pack in clean paper or


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an envelope with sealed corners. Do not useplastic containers.

Blood Examination Request Letter

A blood examination request letter must containthe following information:

A brief statement of facts relating to the case.

Claims made by the suspect(s) regarding thesource of the blood.

Whether animal blood is present.

Whether the stains were laundered or dilutedwith other body uids.

Information regarding the health of thevictim(s) and suspect(s), including thepresence of such infections as AIDS,hepatitis, and tuberculosis.

Semen and Semen Stains

Absorb suspected liquid semen onto a cleancotton cloth or swab. Air-dry the cloth or swaband pack in clean paper or an envelope withsealed corners. Do not use plastic containers.


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Submit small suspected dry semen-stainedobjects to the Laboratory. Pack to prevent

stain removal by abrasive action duringshipping. Pack in clean paper. Do not useplastic containers.

When possible, cut a large sample ofsuspected semen stains from immovableobjects with a clean, sharp instrument. Pack

to prevent stain removal by abrasive actionduring shipping. Pack in clean paper. Do notuse plastic containers.

Absorb suspected dried semen stains onimmovable objects onto a clean cotton clothor swab moistened with distilled water. Air-dry

the swab or cloth and place in clean paper oran envelope with sealed corners. Do not useplastic containers.

Note: It is not necessary to collect referenceseminal uid for comparison. Refer to the

Collecting Known Samplessection for moreinformation.

Seminal Evidence from Sexual Assault Victims

Sexual assault victims must be medicallyexamined in a hospital or a physicians ofce


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using a standard sexual assault evidence kitto collect vaginal, oral, and anal evidence.

Refrigerate and submit the evidence to theLaboratory as soon as possible.

Saliva and Urine, Other Sources ofBody-Fluid Evidence

Absorb suspected liquid saliva or urine onto aclean cotton cloth or swab. Air-dry the cloth orswab and pack in clean paper or an envelopewith sealed corners. Do not use plasticcontainers.

Submit small suspected dry saliva- or urine-

stained objects to the Laboratory. Pack toprevent stain removal by abrasive actionduring shipping. Pack in clean paper or anenvelope with sealed corners. Do not useplastic containers.

When possible, cut a large sample ofsuspected saliva or urine stains fromimmovable objects with a clean, sharpinstrument. Pack to prevent stain removal byabrasive action during shipping. Pack in cleanpaper. Do not use plastic containers.


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Pick up cigarette butts with gloved hands orclean forceps. Do not submit ashes. Air-dry

and place the cigarette butts from the samelocation (e.g., ashtray) in clean paper or anenvelope with sealed corners. Do not submitthe ashtray unless a latent print examinationis requested. Package the ashtray separately.Do not use plastic containers.

Pick up chewing gum with gloved hands orclean forceps. Air-dry and place in cleanpaper or an envelope with sealed corners. Donot use plastic containers.

Pick up envelopes and stamps with glovedhands or clean forceps and place in a clean

envelope. Do not use plastic containers.

Hair

Pick up hair carefully with clean forceps toprevent damaging the root tissue.

Air-dry hair mixed with suspected body uids.

Package each group of hair separately inclean paper or an envelope with sealedcorners. Do not use plastic containers.


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Refrigerate and submit to the Laboratory assoon as possible.

Tissue, Bones, and Teeth

Call the Laboratory at 703-632-7572prior tosubmitting suspected tissue, bones, or teeth toensure that the evidence will be accepted forexamination. The communication accompanying

the evidence must reference the telephoneconversation accepting the evidence.

Pick up suspected tissue, bones, and teethwith gloved hands or clean forceps.

Collect 12 cubic inches of red skeletal

muscle.

Submit whole bones. Cutting bones increasesthe possibility of contamination.

Collect teeth in the following order:

Nonrestored molar.

Nonrestored premolar.

Nonrestored canine.

Nonrestored front tooth.

1.

2.

3.

4.


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Restored molar.

Restored premolar.

Restored canine.

Restored front tooth.

Place tissue samples in a clean, airtight

plastic container without formalin orformaldehyde. Place teeth and bonesamples in clean paper or an envelope withsealed corners.

Freeze the evidence, place in Styrofoamcontainers, and ship overnight on dry ice.

Preserving DNA EvidenceLong-TermStorage

Blood/saliva (reference samples).

Refrigerate, do not freeze, liquid blood

samples.

Store refrigerated, frozen (if dried), orat room temperature, away from lightand humidity.

Blood/semen (evidence samples).

5.

6.

7.

8.


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Store refrigerated, frozen, or at roomtemperature, away from light and

humidity.

DNA tubes/tissue samples, etc.

Store refrigerated or frozen,if possible.

It is recommended that these samples bestored in a refrigerator/freezer andisolated from evidence that has notbeen examined.

Back to the top

Electronic Device Examinations

Commercial Electronic Devices

Examinations of commercial electronic devicesincluding personal digital assistants (PDAs),cellular telephones, pagers, and global positioningsystems (GPSs)can extract user- or owner-

entered data and other information. In somecases, it is necessary to disassemble the devicesduring examination.

Interception-of-Communication Devices

Interception-of-communication (IOC) devices areused to unlawfully intercept oral or wire


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communications. The devices consist of radio-frequency transmitters and receivers.

Examinations are conducted to identify operatingcharacteristics (frequency of operation, range ofoperation). In some cases, it is necessary todisassemble the devices during examination.

Other Electronic Devices and Circuits

Examinations on other electronic devices and

circuitryincluding facsimile machines, stun guns,and bomb detonatorscan extract user- orowner-entered data, stored data, and otherinformation. The examinations can identifyoperating characteristics and modications madeto the devices. In some cases, it is necessary todisassemble the devices and/or circuits duringexamination.

Questions concerning electronic deviceexaminations should be directed to703-985-2400. Questions concerning shippingelectronic device evidence should be directed

to 703-985-1388. FBI entities may refer to theOperational Technology Division/DigitalEvidence Section web page on the FBI intranetfor additional information regarding evidencesubmission.


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Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence Examinations

and Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

Label the outer container FRAGILE,SENSITIVE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENTand KEEP AWAY FROM MAGNETS ORMAGNETIC FIELDS.



Back to the top

Explosives Examinations

Evidence resulting from an apparent explosionand/or recovery of an explosive device can beexamined. Examinations are based on the

premise that components and accessories usedto construct the devices survive the explosion,although disgured. The examinations canaccomplish the following:

Identify the components used to constructthe device, such as switches, batteries,

detonators, tapes, wires, and fusing systems.


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Identify the explosive main charge.

Determine the construction characteristics.

Determine the manner in which the devicefunctioned or was designed or intended tofunction.

Determine the specic assembly techniques

employed by the builder(s) of the device.

Preserve the trace evidence potentiallypresent in the devices so that it is notdestroyed or damaged during theexaminations.

Call the Laboratory at 703-632-7626 each timean explosive device or a related explosive itemneeds to be shipped. The communicationaccompanying the evidence must reference thetelephone conversation accepting the evidence.

Questions concerning explosives evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-7626.

Explosives are hazardous materials and mustbe handled only by qualied public safety


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personnel, military explosives ordnancedisposal personnel, or certied bomb

technicians. Special packaging is required,and the amount to be shipped is regulated. AnFD-861 form (Mail/Package Alert) is requiredfor shipping bomb components to the FBILaboratory.Back to the top

Explosives Residue Examinations

Instrumental analyses of explosives residue candetermine whether substances are high-explosive,low-explosive, or incendiary mixtures; whether thecomposition of the substances is consistent withknown explosives products; and the type ofexplosives. Explosives residue can be depositedon metal, plastic, wood, paper, glass, cloth, andother surfaces. Residue may be deposited afterhandling, storing, or initiating an explosive.

Questions concerning explosives residue

evidence should be directed to 703-632-7626.Follow the evidence submission directions,including Requesting Evidence Examinationsand Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

Some explosives residue is water-soluble andmust be protected from moisture. Other


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residue evaporates quickly and must becollected as soon as possible in airtight

containers such as metal cans, glass jars, orheat-sealed or resealable nylon or Mylarbags. Ziplock storage bags are not suitable forshipping or storing explosives residueevidence. Do not ll the containers to the top.Pack to prevent breakage.

Collect and preserve control samples from theblast site.

Extreme care must be taken to avoidcontaminating explosives residue evidence.

Never store or ship explosives residue

evidence with bulk explosive materials.

Never store or ship explosives residue evidencefrom a crime scene with evidence from a searchsite.Back to the top

FBI Disaster Squad

Assists in printing the deceased at disasterscenes.

Assists in collecting antemortem ngerprints

of victims.


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Assists in identifying friction ridge skin of thedeceased.

Deployment of the FBIs Disaster Squadrequires consent from the disaster scenecoroner or medical examiner, a ranking lawenforcement or government ofcial, arepresentative of the National TransportationSafety Board, or a representative of the U.S.

Department of State.

Requests for assistance must be madethrough the nearest FBI eld ofce or theFBIs Strategic Information and OperationsCenter at 202-323-3300.

Back to the top

Feather Examinations

Feather examinations can determine bird speciesand can compare feathers found on clothing,vehicles, and other objects with feathers from the

crime scene.

Questions concerning feather evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-8449. Follow theevidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.


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Submit feathers in heat-sealed or resealableplastic bags or paper bags.

Back to the top

Firearm Examinations

Firearms

Firearm examinations can determine the generalcondition of a rearm and whether the rearm is

mechanically functional or in a condition that couldcontribute to an unintentional discharge. Trigger-pull examinations can determine the amount ofpressure necessary to release the hammer orring pin of a rearm. Examinations can determinewhether a rearm was altered to re in the full-automatic mode. Obliterated and/or alteredrearm serial numbers sometimes can berestored. Firearms can be test-red to obtainknown specimens for comparison with evidenceammunition components, such as bullets,cartridge cases, and shotshell casings.

Comparisons of suspect rearms can be madewith rearms depicted in surveillance images,possibly resulting in an association conclusion.Photogrammetry can determine the length of theweapon(s) used by the subject(s) depicted in thesurveillance images. See Image AnalysisExaminations.


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Bullets

Fired bullets can be examined to determine

general riing characteristics such as caliber,physical features of the riing impressions, andthe manufacturer of the bullets. The microscopiccharacteristics on evidence bullets can becompared with test-red bullets from a suspectrearm to determine whether the evidence bulletwas red from that rearm.

Cartridge Cases or Shotshell Casings

Cartridge-case or shotshell-casing examinationscan determine the caliber or gauge, themanufacturer, and whether there are marks ofvalue for comparison. The images of questionedcartridge cases and shotshell casings can bescanned into the National Integrated BallisticInformation Network (NIBIN) to compare withevidence from other shooting incidents. Themicroscopic characteristics of evidence cartridgecases and shotshell casings can be examined todetermine whether they were red from a specic

rearm.

Shot Pellets, Buckshot, or Slugs

Examinations of shot pellets, buckshot, or slugscan determine the size of the shot, the gauge ofthe slug, and the manufacturer.


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Wadding

Examinations of wadding components can

determine the gauge and the manufacturer.

Unred Cartridges or Shotshells

Examinations of unred cartridges or shotshellscan determine the caliber or gauge and whetherthere are marks of value for comparison.Examinations also can determine whether the

ammunition was loaded in and extracted from aspecic rearm. Unred and red cartridges orshotshells can be associated throughmanufacturing marks.

Gunshot Residue on Victims Clothing

The deposition of gunshot residue on evidencesuch as clothing varies with the distance from themuzzle of the rearm to the target. Patterns ofgunshot residue can be duplicated using aquestioned rearm-and-ammunition combinationred into test materials at known distances. Thesepatterns serve as a basis for estimating muzzle-

to-garment distances.

Gun Parts

Examinations of gun parts can determine thecaliber and model of the gun from which the partsoriginated.


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Silencers

Muzzle attachments can reduce the noise of a

rearm by suppressing sound during ring. Testingcan determine whether a muzzle attachment canbe classied as a silencer based on a measurablesound-reduction capability.

Questions concerning rearm evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-8442. Follow the

evidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

All rearms must be unloaded.

The rearm should be submitted. If the rearm

cannot be submitted, call 703-632-8442forinstructions.

The rearm must be handled minimally toavoid loss or destruction of evidence. Do notallow objects to enter or contact the rearms

barrel, chamber, or other operating surface.

Firearms and ammunition components suchas bullets, cartridge cases, and shotshellcasings can be sent via Registered Mailthrough the U.S. Postal Service. Evidencemust be packaged separately and identied


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by date, time, location, collectors name, casenumber, and evidence number.

U.S. Department of Transportationregulations and the following guidelines mustbe followed when shipping liveammunition:

Package and ship ammunition separately

from rearm(s).

The outside of the container must belabeled ORM-D, CARTRIDGES, SMALLARMS.

The Declaration of Dangerous Goods

must include the number of package(s)and the gross weight in grams of thecompleted package(s).

Do not mark the rearm. Firearms must beidentied with a tag containing the caliber,make, model, and serial number. The date,time, name(s) of the owner(s), location,collectors name, case number, and evidencenumber must be on the container.

Do not mark bullets, cartridges and cartridgecases, shotshells and shotshell casings, or


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other rearm-related evidence. The date,time, location, collectors name, case number,

and evidence number must be on thecontainer.

Clothing submitted for gunshot residueexamination must be carefully handled, air-dried, and wrapped separately in paper.Clothing with blood must be air-dried and

labeled BIOHAZARD on the inner and outercontainers. The date, time, location, collectorsname, case number, and evidence numbermust be on the container.

Back to the top

Forensic Facial Imaging

Visual information specialists provide compositedrawings, two- and three-dimensional facialreconstructions from skeletal remains, facial ageprogressions, postmortem reconstructions, anddigital photographic manipulations and retouches.

Interviews required to prepare compositedrawings may be conducted either by having avisual information specialist travel to the eld or byusing video teleconferencing.

For facial comparisons between known andquestioned subjects, see Image Analysis

Examinations.


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Questions concerning forensic facial imagingshould be directed to 703-632-8194.

Back to the top

Glass Examinations

Glass comparison examinations can determinewhether particles of glass originated from abroken source of glass. Glass fracture

examinations can determine the direction andtype of the breaking force and the sequencing ofshots.

Questions concerning glass evidence shouldbe directed to 703-632-8449.Follow theevidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

Comparison

Submit samples of glass from each brokenwindow or source in leakproof containers such

as lm canisters or plastic pill bottles. Do notuse paper or glass containers.

Submit samples of laminated glass (e.g.,windshield) from each side of the glass. Labelthe samples INSIDE and OUTSIDE andpackage separately in leakproof containers

such as lm canisters or plastic pill bottles. Donot use paper or glass containers.


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Submit the air-dried clothing of the victim(s)and suspect(s). Package each item separately

in a paper bag.

Search for particles in the hair, skin, andwounds of the victim(s) and suspect(s).Submit particles in leakproof containers suchas lm canisters or plastic pill bottles. Do notuse paper or glass containers.

Search for particles in vehicles by vacuumingeach section of the vehicle separately. Do notuse tape for recovering glass particles. Submitvacuum sweepings in leakproof containers.Do not use paper or glass containers.

Ship known and questioned debris separatelyto avoid contamination.

Do not process evidence for latent prints.

Fracture

Label the sides of the glass in the frame(INSIDE and OUTSIDE). Label the glasswhere it was removed in the frame (TOP,BOTTOM, LEFT, and RIGHT).

Submit all glass pieces so that the pieces canbe t together to identify the radial cracks near

and at the point(s) of impact and to increasethe probability of matching edges. Pack all


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glass separately and securely to avoid shiftingand breaking during shipping.

Submit the entire piece of laminated glass, ifpossible. Secure the glass between sheets ofplywood or sturdy cardboard. Do not placeany objects into the impact area.

Do not process evidence for latent prints.

Back to the top

Hair and Fiber Examinations

Hair

Hair examinations can determine whether hairsare animal or human. Race, body area, method ofremoval, damage, and alteration (e.g., bleachingor dyeing) can be determined from human-hairanalysis. Examinations can associate a hair to aperson on the basis of microscopic characteristicsin the hair but cannot provide absolute personalidentication. Hairs that are associated will be

submitted for mitochondrial DNA analysis.

Fibers

Fiber examinations can identify the type of ber,such as animal (wool), vegetable (cotton), mineral(glass), and synthetic (manufactured). Questionedbers can be compared with bers from the

clothing, carpeting, and other textiles of victim(s)


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and suspect(s). A questioned piece of fabric canbe matched physically to known fabric. Fabric

composition, construction, and color can becompared, and impressions on and from fabriccan be examined. Label searches can determineclothing manufacturer information.

Questions concerning hair and ber evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-8449. Follow the

evidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

For known hair samples, collect at least 25hairs from different parts of the head and/orpubic region. Comb and pull out the hairs.Submit hairs in clean paper or an envelopewith sealed corners.

When possible, submit the entire garment ortextile. Submit bers in clean paper or anenvelope with sealed corners.

Back to the top

Image Analysis Examinations

Image analysis examinations are conducted bythe FBIs Operational Technology Division (OTD),Digital Evidence Laboratory (DEL), Forensic

Audio, Video, and Image Analysis Unit (FAVIAU).


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The OTD DEL has different acceptance criteriaand a different physical address than the FBI

Laboratory, as described below.

Photographic Comparisons

Examinations of lm, negatives, digital images,photographic prints, and video recordings,including surveillance images, involvecomparisons of subject(s) or object(s) depicted in

questioned images with those in known images.Subject(s) or object(s) also can be comparedbetween multiple questioned images. Subjectcomparisons include facial comparisons or can bemade between like body parts, such as hands orears. Examples of objects that can be comparedinclude clothing, rearms, and vehicles.

Photogrammetry

Physical dimensions can be derived from imagesthrough the use of geometric formulas or on-sitecomparison. For on-site comparisons, examinersenter the scene and place a height chart at the

location of the subject(s) or object(s) of interest.Examples of photogrammetry include determiningthe height of a bank robbery subject(s) and thelength of the weapon(s) used by the subject(s)depicted in surveillance images.


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Authenticity and Image-ManipulationDetection

Photographic evidenceincluding lm, video, anddigital imagescan be examined to determinewhether the image is the result of a composite, analteration, or a copy.

Location, Time, and Date

Examinations of photographic evidence can

determine the location, time, and date that animage was taken.

Source and Age

Photographic products, including lm and prints,can be dated, and the source can be establishedby examining manufacturing characteristics. Thiscan establish the time frame during which aphotograph was taken.

Cameras

Cameras, both lm and digital, seized as evidencecan be compared with images to determine

whether a specic camera captured a specicimage. Similarly, digital video cameras can becompared with video clips.

Video

Still images can be produced from video clips,enhanced and enlarged, and used in courtroom

presentations.


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Automobile Make and Model Identication

Vehicles depicted in surveillance images can be

compared with the National Automotive Image Fileto determine make and model.

Child Pornography Examinations

Seized images of child pornography should besearched for known victims by checking with theNational Center for Missing and Exploited

Children and the Innocent Images NationalInitiative. The images also can be compared withimages in the Child Exploitation and ObscenityReference File to identify the source of theimages.Video clips can be examined to determineif any of the people and scenes depicted in thevideo clips are also recorded as still images in thereference le.Video clips and still images also canbe examined to determine if they depictrecordings or images of real people and events orwhether they represent computer-generatedsubjects and events.

Questions concerning image analysisexaminations should be directed to 703-985-1393. Questions concerning image analysisevidence should be directed to 703-985-1388.

Image analysis examinations may not besubmitted directly from entities outside the FBI.


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State, local, or international agency cases mustbe submitted by the FBI eld ofce servicing the

area and must meet one of the following twocriteria: 1) the state, local, or international casehas a nexus to an ongoing FBI investigation or2) the FBI division head deems that the case is ofenough regional importance to merit thededication of federal resources to the state, local,or international case. These criteria shall be met

with a written statement from the division head(Special Agent in Charge). FBI entities may submitcases directly.


Write-protect the original media. Never usethe Pause operation when viewing originalvideo recordings.

Submit original evidence (e.g., negatives,

videotape, CD) whenever possible because itcontains the greatest level of detail. If theoriginal media is unavailable, submit rst-generation photographic prints, videotapes, ordigital les of the evidence, being careful notto introduce further compression.


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Process all lm prior to submitting. Banksurveillance lm should be processed by the

banks security company according tomanufacturer specications.

When requesting forensic examinations basedon video images, queue the original videotapeto the approximate time of the pertinent area.State in a communication the date and time of

the pertinent area and use the date-timestamp on the images or the counter indicator(set from the beginning of the tape at 000). Ifprints from the relevant frames are available,submit them for reference.

Arrest or known photographs of suspect(s) for

comparison with questioned images mustdepict the suspect(s) from many anglessimilar to the questioned images. If a facialcomparison is requested, ensure that the faceor head of the suspect(s) lls more than halfthe frame. If questioned images show tattoos

or marks, include photographs of the sameareas of the body on the known suspect(s).

When taking known photographs forcomparison with questioned images, use35 mm lm or digital equivalent (at highestresolution settings to minimize image

compression).


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Do not mark or cut items submitted forcomparison (e.g., clothing or rearms) where

they are visible in the questioned images.

Physical items such as clothing and rearmsmust be submitted to the Laboratory for otherexaminations such as trace evidence,ballistic, or ngerprint analyses before theyare submitted for image comparison.

If photogrammetry is requested, include thedimensions of the scene to the nearest eighthof an inch and include a diagram or print fromthe relevant images indicating the location ofthe measurements. Include one diagram orprint for every angle used in the scene. Do not

touch or move the surveillance cameras.

Submissions for comparison with the ChildExploitation and Obscenity Reference Filemust be limited to no more than 30 images.Call 703-985-1393for specic instructions.

When submitting such evidence as avideotape or data card, label the outercontainer FRAGILE, SENSITIVEELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT or FRAGILE,SENSITIVE AUDIO/VIDEO MEDIA andKEEP AWAY FROM MAGNETS OR

MAGNETIC FIELDS.


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Back to the top

Ink Examinations

Examining inked writing in conjunction with othertechniques (e.g., handwriting analysis, watermarkidentication) can provide details regardingdocument preparation. The composition of writinginks varies with the type of writing instrument

(e.g., ballpoint pen, fountain pen, porous-tip pen)and the date of the ink manufacture. In general,inks are composed of dyes in solvents and othermaterials that impart selected characteristics. Inkanalysis usually is limited to comparisons of theorganic dye components. When ink formulationsare the same, it is not possible to determine

whether the ink originated from the same sourceto the exclusion of others. Examinations cannotdetermine how long ink has been on a document.

Questions concerning ink evidence should bedirected to 703-632-8441. Follow the evidence


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submission directions, including RequestingEvidence Examinationsand Packaging and

Shipping Evidence.

Pack ink evidence separately from anydocument or surface with ink marks.

Back to the top

Latent Print Examinations

Case Acceptance Policy

Because of the increasing casework demands ofthe FBIs primary mission, protecting the UnitedStates from terrorist attacks, the FBI Laboratorywill no longer accept routine cases from state andlocal agencies in which latent print examinationservices may be obtained from within thesubmitting agencys system. The futureacceptance of any state and local cases generallywill be based on the submitting agencys lack ofaccess to the same techniques or services

provided by the FBI Laboratory, the unusualtechnical nature of the case, or the circumstancessurrounding the case, e.g., cases of a high-prolenature or cases that also involve FBI eld ofces.

Developing Latent Prints at Crime Scenes

The Laboratory is the best place to develop latent

prints; however, it is sometimes necessary to


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develop latent prints at crime scenes. Cautionshould be taken to prevent destroying latent

prints. The following measures ensure that crimescene latent prints are protected:

Photograph latent prints prior to anyprocessing.

Examine all evidence visually and with a laser

or an alternate light source before using anyother latent print development process.

Photograph latent prints developed withngerprint powders before lifting them.

Black, gray, or white powder can be applied to

a surface with a variety of style of brushes.The color of the powder should contrast withthe color of the surface (e.g., black for lightsurfaces and gray or white for dark surfaces).

Use a short-hair brush or cotton to remove

excess powder. Use caution when powdering.Avoid overbrushing latent prints and losingclarity.

Use transparent tape or black-and-whiterubber lifts to lift latent prints.


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When transparent tape is used, the color ofthe backing card should contrast with the color

of the powders (e.g., white backing card forblack powder).

When using latent print developmentprocesses, refer to the manufacturersinstructions and the Material Safety DataSheets. Use personal protective equipment

(e.g., safety glasses, masks, gloves, smocks).

The Processing Guide for Developing LatentPrintsis a comprehensive guide to latent printprocesses and protocols. Refer to thispublication to ensure that proper processesare applied in the recommended order.

Following this guide will maximize thepotential to develop latent prints and willpreserve evidence if other forensicexaminations are required. The guide isavailable at http://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/jan2001/lpu.pdf. Law enforcement

personnel may request the Processing Guidefor Developing Latent Printsin eld-manualformat by faxing a request on agencyletterhead to 703-632-8374.

Photographing Latent Prints

Use a tripod and cable release when

photographing latent prints.
http://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/jan2001/lpu.pdfhttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/jan2001/lpu.pdfhttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/jan2001/lpu.pdfhttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/jan2001/lpu.pdf


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Use a 35 mm or medium-format camera witha macro lens capable of half-size to full-size

reproduction.

Photograph latent prints at each step in theprocessing sequence before moving to thenext process.

Photograph latent prints developed with

ngerprint powders before lifting them.

When possible, use ISO 400 lm. Set the lensf-stop to the smallest possible aperture whileusing the camera meter to adjust the camerasshutter speed to obtain proper exposure.

Take three exposures of each latent print by

bracketing:

Original exposure.

One-stop underexposed image.

One-stop overexposed image.

Photograph latent prints individually. Thisensures that the target latent print is in focus.


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For reference purposes, photograph latentprints close to one another in one frame, if

possible.

Fill the frame completely.

Photograph latent prints with an identicationlabel that includes a scale, reference number,date, collectors initials, and location of the

latent prints. The identication label should beplaced on the same plane as the latent prints.

Maintain a photographic log that records eachshot, reference number, date, collectorsinitials, location of prints, and other pertinentinformation.

Questions concerning latent print evidenceshould be directed to 703-632-8443.Follow theevidence submission directions, includingRequesting Evidence ExaminationsandPackaging and Shipping Evidence.

Stabilize the evidence to avoid movement orfriction during shipping.

Place nonporous evidence (e.g., nonabsorb-ent, hard surfaces) in separate protectivecoverings such as thick transparent envelopes


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(glassine), or suspend in a container so thatthere is minimal surface contact. Friction will

destroy latent prints on this type of surface.

Place porous evidence (e.g., paper,cardboard) in separate protective coverings.Friction generally will not destroy latent printson this type of surface.

Submit known ngerprints and palm prints ofeveryone who may have handled theevidence, including suspects, victims, thosewho had legitimate access, and investigativepersonnel. All ngerprint cards m