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

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