Written by: Emily Joswiak • June 17, 2024• Lifestyle

What Qualifies as Biological Evidence in Crime Scenes?

Forensic specialists collect a variety of evidence from crime scenes, one of which is biological. Learn what qualifies as this type of evidence here.

A woman's hand holding up a magnifying glass with a fingerprint on it in a dark, brick-walled alley.

Biological evidence plays a crucial role in forensic science and crime scene investigations. It provides critical information that can link suspects to victims or crime scenes, establish timelines, and provide insights into the nature of the crime. Keep reading to learn what qualifies as biological evidence in crime scenes.

Definition and Types of Biological Evidence

Biological evidence encompasses any organic material that comes from a living organism and can be used to support the investigation of a crime. This includes the following:

Blood
Saliva
Hair
Skin cells
Other bodily fluids or tissues

Blood and saliva are perhaps the most familiar, often collected from surfaces, objects, or stains left at crime scenes. Hair and skin cells are also common, sometimes recovered from clothing, bedding, or under a victim’s nails. Seminal fluid and vaginal secretions are also common pieces of evidence that can be crucial in sexual assault cases.

Overall, each piece of evidence contains unique genetic markers that can identify an individual—whether victim or perp—with a high degree of certainty.

How Biological Evidence Is Collected

Collecting biological evidence involves meticulous procedures to prevent contamination and preserve the integrity of the sample. First and foremost, crime scene investigators employ protective clothing, gloves, and masks to avoid introducing their own DNA into the scene.

Next, these professionals use tools like cotton swabs, tweezers, and biopsy devices to gather samples. These tools are usually disposable to reduce the risk of contamination. For example, disposable biopsy punches have many applications, and forensics is one for this very reason.

Finally, each piece of evidence is preserved in sterile, clearly marked containers before being sent to a laboratory for analysis.

The Role of DNA Analysis

So what happens once biological evidence leaves the crime scene? DNA analysis is one of the most powerful tools in forensic science, providing definitive answers about what qualifies as biological evidence in crime scenes. Techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplify DNA samples, making it possible to analyze even minuscule amounts of biological material. The resulting DNA profiles can match suspects to crime scenes with a high degree of accuracy, often leading to convictions or exonerations.

Did you have any idea about what qualifies as biological evidence in crime scenes? Now that you do, you have a greater appreciation for its collection and analysis and how forensic science can provide invaluable assistance in solving crimes and delivering justice.

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Last modified: June 17, 2024