How should hair evidence be handled if it is caught in a crack or attached to an object?

Handling hair evidence properly is crucial for preserving its integrity and ensuring it can be used effectively in a criminal investigation. When hair evidence is caught in a crack or attached to an object, the best practice is to leave it intact on the object and wrap it. This approach preserves the contextual relationship between the hair and the object, which can provide important information during analysis.

When hair is secured in its original position, it maintains the potential for a more thorough examination, including determining the significance of its location or analyzing any other materials associated with it. By wrapping the object, the hair is protected from contamination or damage during transport and handling, ensuring that it can later be analyzed reliably in a forensic lab.

Employing this careful method respects the evidence’s chain of custody and bolsters the reliability of findings derived from the hair analysis. Proper handling ultimately supports the thoroughness of the investigation and the legal process.