When dealing with a crime scene investigation (CSI), it is important that only persons who are thoroughly trained in crime investigations be allowed into the crime scene area. These professionals are specialists in the areas of retrieving and gathering information under the guidance of the law. If the evidence is collected unlawfully, or by persons unskilled in the field, this could lead to an indictment of the wrong party and/or the inability to prosecute the guilty.
After evidence is retrieved, it is analyzed. Forensic evidence experts are trained to be able to take the tiniest bit of material, such as a piece of fabric from a piece of clothing, and analyze it. This could lead to the guilty party.
The advances in technology have lead to changes in the methods of collecting evidence. In the past, technicians looked for fingerprints, fabrics, articles of clothing, possessions left behind, footprints, etc. to identify a guilty party. Fingerprinting is still used but technical advantages have increased the ability to gather information in ways that were unavailable less than twenty years ago.
Today, crime scene investigators use DNA, a genetic way of collecting biological evidence, which can be retrieved from hair samples, skin, blood, bones, teeth, nails, saliva, tissue and semen, to determine guilt. This also rules out innocent people from being convicted of crimes they did not commit. Much caution must be used to ensure that the samples collected are not contaminated in any way. If the samples collected have any direct contact with dirt, grease, fabrics, food, drinks, etc. the evidence could become destroyed and rendered useless.
Special collection materials are needed to collect evidence. Special powders, fingerprinting brushes are always used during crime scene investigations. Barricade tape and cones are needed to keep out people who are not involved in the investigation or emergency situation until the on scene investigation/emergency is completed. Protective equipment is also needed such as latex gloves, etc.
With the discovery and usage of biological evidence people who were convicted and imprisoned for committing crimes they were not guilty of have been set free. Also, some criminals who committed crimes years ago and thought they had gotten away with these crimes have been convicted to the full extent of the law.
Written by Irene Crimson. Find examples of evidence gathering equipment at CopsPlus.com.