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What Every Law Enforcement Officer Should Know About DNA Evidence

Investigators and Evidence Technicians

Liquid Saliva

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Collection Procedures for Liquid Saliva

The procedures for collecting liquid saliva (spittle) are:

  • Use a clean sterile swab to absorb the saliva and/or mucous
  • Air-dry the swab and package it in a labeled paper envelope or container
  • Do not use plastic bags or containers
  • Store the evidence as cold as possible
Image of cigarettes in ashtray
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).
Image of technician using swab to collect evidence
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

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