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What Every Law Enforcement Officer Should Know About DNA Evidence

First Responding Officers

Contamination: Transportation and Storage

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Image of police officer putting evidence in the truck of a police car, overlaid with a red do not do symbol
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (see reuse policy).

As a first responding officer, you may be called upon to transport evidence from a crime scene. As with any evidence, ensure that the chain of custody is maintained. In addition, be aware that direct sunlight and warmer conditions may degrade DNA. Avoid storing evidence in places that may get hot, such as the trunk of the police car. To best preserve DNA evidence, store in a cold environment.

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