How should seminal stains be packaged for evidence collection?

Seminal stains should be allowed to air dry and then wrapped in paper to preserve the evidence effectively. Air drying helps to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria that could degrade the biological sample, maintaining its integrity for forensic analysis. Using paper for wrapping is ideal because it is breathable, which allows any remaining moisture to escape without causing damage to the sample. This method also minimizes contamination and preserves the evidence in a way that is suitable for laboratory examination.

In contrast, packaging in plastic bags could trap moisture and create an environment conducive to the growth of microorganisms, which could compromise the evidence. Metal containers are typically not used for biological samples due to potential issues with temperature fluctuations and contamination. Storing the sample in a refrigerator is not practical for immediate evidence collection, as it may introduce changes to the sample and does not follow the standard protocol for initial evidence packaging and transport. Therefore, allowing seminal stains to air dry and using paper for wrapping is the best practice in evidence collection.