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Collecting DNA Evidence at Property Crime Scenes

Wet Stains on Non-Absorbent Surfaces

Wet Stains on Nonabsorbent Surfaces

Collection procedures for wet stains on nonabsorbent surfaces are as follows:

  • Use one or more sterile swabs (or sterile gauze for larger stains) to soak up the stain.
  • Concentrate the stain on one portion of the tip of the swab.
  • Allow to thoroughly air-dry.
  • Collect the control sample by slightly moistening the swab with distilled water and rubbing an area of the surface in an unstained region near the stain.

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