ABMDI Evidence Collection and Preservation 2

Question 1

Why should biological evidence (blood, tissue) be collected into paper bags rather than plastic bags?

Accepted Answer

Plastic traps moisture, promoting bacterial growth that degrades DNA and may cause mold contamination

Answer

Paper is lighter and easier to transport

Answer

Paper bags are required by all state laws

Answer

Plastic bags cause static discharge that can damage DNA

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of collecting a control sample at a death scene?

Accepted Answer

To identify background contamination at the scene that might confound laboratory analysis

Answer

To provide the crime lab with a backup in case the primary sample is lost

Answer

To establish the victim's identity before DNA analysis is completed

Answer

To compare the decedent's DNA with the medical examiner's DNA

Question 3

When collecting bloodstain pattern evidence at a scene, the MDI should prioritize:

Accepted Answer

Thorough photography and documentation before any collection or disturbance

Answer

Collecting all blood with swabs before photographing

Answer

Painting over bloodstains to preserve them from environmental damage

Answer

Immediate collection without documentation to prevent evidence degradation

Question 4

Vitreous humor is frequently collected for toxicological analysis during death investigations because:

Accepted Answer

It is relatively isolated and protected, making it less susceptible to redistribution and decomposition than blood

Answer

It is the largest fluid compartment in the body

Answer

It contains higher drug concentrations than any other body fluid

Answer

It is the only fluid that can detect alcohol consumption

Question 5

What is the appropriate way to package and preserve a firearm collected at a death scene?

Accepted Answer

Document, render safe if loaded, photograph in place, then package in a paper bag with a label noting LOADED if applicable

Answer

Immediately wipe down the firearm to preserve it from rust

Answer

Seal the firearm in an airtight plastic bag to preserve fingerprints

Answer

Discharge remaining ammunition before packaging

Question 6

During scene investigation, the MDI identifies a substance suspected to be a controlled drug. What is the appropriate collection procedure?

Accepted Answer

Photograph the substance in place, collect using appropriate containers, seal and label with chain of custody, and submit to the laboratory

Answer

Test the substance using a field drug kit and discard the excess material

Answer

Contact the local pharmacy to identify the substance before collection

Answer

Use bare hands to collect a sample, then seal in a plastic zip bag