ETC Item Collection 2

Question 1

When collecting trace evidence such as hair or fibers from a victim's clothing, which tool is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Forceps or tweezers

Answer

Forceps or tweezers allow precise collection of individual trace items without cross-contamination from adhesives.

Question 2

A wet bloodstain is found on a carpet at a crime scene. What is the proper initial collection method?

Accepted Answer

Absorb with a sterile swab and allow to air dry before packaging

Answer

Wet biological stains should be collected with a sterile swab, air-dried to prevent mold growth, then packaged in breathable paper packaging.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes 'substrate control' in evidence collection?

Accepted Answer

Collecting a sample of the surface material near but not on the stain

Answer

A substrate control is an unstained sample from the same surface material collected near the evidence to detect background contamination.

Question 4

When should an evidence technician collect reference standards from a victim?

Accepted Answer

As early as possible during the investigation

Answer

Reference standards from victims should be collected as early as possible to preserve sample integrity and enable comparison analysis.

Question 5

A firearm is found submerged in water. How should it be transported to the lab?

Accepted Answer

Submitted submerged in the water in which it was found

Answer

Firearms recovered from water should be transported submerged to preserve potential DNA and fingerprints that would be destroyed by drying.

(ETC) Evidence Technician Certification Practice Test