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Description
Trace Evidence

Trace evidence refers to materials transferred between people, objects, or the environment during a crime. This evidence can help investigators develop leads, indicating (or excluding) potential suspects or locations for further scrutiny. Trace evidence encompasses a wide range of natural and manufactured materials.

Traditional trace evidence includes:

  • Glass
  • Fibers
  • Tape
  • Paints, dyes, and pigments
  • Gunshot residue
  • Ignitable liquids
  • Explosives
  • Geological (minerals and soils)
  • Pollen

Read more about trace evidence.

On this page, find links to articles, awards, events, publications, and multimedia related to trace evidence.