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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
OREGON STATE POLICE
FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
PREFACE
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PREFACE
The purpose of this manual is to give direction to our customers in the Criminal Justice System regarding
the services provided by the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division (OSP FSD), and the
recommended methods of collecting and preserving physical evidence. Additionally, this manual
contains evidence submission acceptance criteria for items in need of forensic examination. The
recommendations and the criteria help to ensure the integrity of the evidence and best analytical results.
Every attempt has been made to make this handbook as current and up-to-date as possible; however, it
should be noted that the field of forensic science is changing at a rapid rate. New techniques and
procedures are constantly being developed, providing new capabilities or refinements to existing
capabilities. Consequently, techniques, procedures and capabilities contained herein may change in the
future. All agencies are encouraged to keep in regular contact with their local laboratory to keep abreast
of any such changes. This handbook will be stored on the State Police Internet site:
http://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/Pages/OSP%20FORENSICS.aspx
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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1.0 Forensic Services Division Mission Statement .............................................................................. 8
2.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 9
3.0 Laboratory Locations and Services ............................................................................................. 11
4.0 Case Communication .................................................................................................................. 13
5.0 Cancellation of Requested Analysis .......................................................................................... 14
6.0 General Evidence Handling ......................................................................................................... 15
6.1 General Evidence Handling Guidelines ................................................................................ 15
6.2 Evidence Collection .............................................................................................................. 15
6.3 Chain of Custody (COC) ....................................................................................................... 18
6.4 Forensic Services Request Form ......................................................................................... 19
7.0 Laboratory Reports ...................................................................................................................... 22
7.1 Laboratory Online Information System (LOIS) ...................................................................... 22
7.2 Forensic Laboratory Evaluation Form and Surveys .............................................................. 22
8.0 Field Investigations (Crime Scenes) ............................................................................................ 23
8.1 Crime Scene Services Offered ............................................................................................. 23
8.2 Crime Scene Photography ................................................................................................... 24
8.3 Vehicle Examinations ........................................................................................................... 24
8.4 Body Processing .................................................................................................................. 25
8.5 Postmortem Examinations .................................................................................................... 25
8.6 Decomposed Remains ......................................................................................................... 26
9.0 Missing Persons (‘MP’) ................................................................................................................ 27
9.1 Secondary Standards or Direct Reference Sample .............................................................. 27
9.2 DNA from the Missing Person’s Relatives (Family Reference Standards) ............................ 27
9.3 Family Reference Standard Collection ................................................................................ 28
10.0 Unidentified Remains .................................................................................................................. 29
10.1 Unidentified Remains ........................................................................................................... 29
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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10.2 Identifying the Deceased ...................................................................................................... 29
11.0 Biological Evidence ..................................................................................................................... 31
11.1 Safety and Contamination Prevention .................................................................................. 31
11.2 General Collection Guidelines .............................................................................................. 31
11.3 Alternate Light Source Searches .......................................................................................... 32
11.4 Blood Evidence .................................................................................................................... 33
11.5 Saliva Evidence .................................................................................................................... 34
11.6 Semen Evidence .................................................................................................................. 35
11.7 Adult and Child Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence (SAFE-A and SAFE-C) Kits ................... 35
11.8 Penile Swabbing Forensic Evidence (PSFE) Kits ................................................................. 36
12.0 DNA Analysis .............................................................................................................................. 38
12.1 Body Fluid Analysis .............................................................................................................. 39
12.2 Wearer DNA ......................................................................................................................... 39
12.3 Aggressive Handling DNA .................................................................................................... 39
12.4 Touch DNA........................................................................................................................... 39
12.5 Criminal Paternity ................................................................................................................. 40
12.6 Y-STR Analysis .................................................................................................................... 40
12.7 DNA Standards .................................................................................................................... 41
12.8 Decomposed Remains ......................................................................................................... 42
12.9 Secondary Standards ........................................................................................................... 42
12.10 No Available Suspect Standards ....................................................................................... 42
12.11 High Throughput Property Crimes Program ...................................................................... 42
12.12 Private Laboratory Analysis .............................................................................................. 42
13.0 Latent Print Evidence .................................................................................................................. 43
13.1 Collection, Packaging, and Submission of Evidence ............................................................ 43
13.2 Submission of Inked Prints for Comparison Purposes .......................................................... 45
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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13.3 Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) ............................................................... 45
13.4 Identifying the Deceased ...................................................................................................... 46
14.0 Drug Chemistry ........................................................................................................................... 47
14.1 Analysis of controlled substances ......................................................................................... 47
14.2 Chemistry Submissions ........................................................................................................ 47
14.3 Collection and Packaging ..................................................................................................... 49
14.6 Latent Prints ......................................................................................................................... 50
14.7 Field Test Kits ...................................................................................................................... 50
14.8 Clandestine Drug Laboratories ............................................................................................. 51
14.9 Methamphetamine Quantification ......................................................................................... 52
15.0 Anonymous Analysis Program of Suspected Controlled Substances ........................................... 53
15.1 Submission of Substances for Anonymous Analysis ............................................................ 53
16.0 Toxicology ................................................................................................................................... 54
16.1 Type of Sample .................................................................................................................... 54
16.2 Triaging ................................................................................................................................ 54
16.3 Blood Alcohol ....................................................................................................................... 54
16.4 Urine .................................................................................................................................... 55
17.0 Firearms Evidence ...................................................................................................................... 58
17.1 Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS) ................................................................... 58
17.2 Collection and Packaging of Firearms Evidence ................................................................... 59
18.0 Serial Number Restoration .......................................................................................................... 61
18.1 Collection and Packaging of Evidence.................................................................................. 61
19.0 Tool Mark Evidence ..................................................................................................................... 62
19.1 Collection and Packaging of Evidence.................................................................................. 62
20.0 Gunpowder and Shot/Pellet Patterns ........................................................................................... 63
20.1 Collection of Gunpowder Evidence ....................................................................................... 63
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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21.0 Arson and Fire Debris................................................................................................................. 64
21.1 Arson Scene Indicators ........................................................................................................ 64
21.2 Collection of Evidence .......................................................................................................... 64
21.3 Packaging of Evidence ......................................................................................................... 65
22.0 Explosives ................................................................................................................................... 66
23.0 Glass Evidence ........................................................................................................................... 67
23.1 Collection and Packaging of Glass Standards ...................................................................... 67
23.2 Collection and Packaging of Recovered Glass Evidence...................................................... 68
23.3 Clothing Items and Hair Combings ....................................................................................... 68
23.4 Vacuum Sweepings / Large Objects ..................................................................................... 69
24.0 Paint Evidence ............................................................................................................................ 70
24.1 Collecting and Packaging Paint Evidence ............................................................................ 70
25.0 Plastic and Tape Evidence ......................................................................................................... 74
25.1 Collection of Plastic Evidence .............................................................................................. 74
26.0 Miscellaneous Trace Evidence (Including Poisons) ..................................................................... 75
27.0 Fiber Evidence ............................................................................................................................ 76
27.1 Fiber Examinations ............................................................................................................... 76
27.2 Collection of Fiber Evidence ................................................................................................. 77
27.3 Collection of Fiber Standards ............................................................................................... 78
27.4 Fabric Damage ..................................................................................................................... 79
28.0 Physical Match ............................................................................................................................ 80
28.1 Evidence Types .................................................................................................................... 80
28.2 Collection and Packaging ..................................................................................................... 80
29.0 Hair Evidence .............................................................................................................................. 82
29.1 Hair Examinations ................................................................................................................ 82
29.2 DNA Analysis of Hairs .......................................................................................................... 82
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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29.3 Collection of Hair Evidence .................................................................................................. 83
29.4 Collection of Hair Standards ................................................................................................. 84
30.0 Impression Evidence ................................................................................................................... 86
30.1 Impression Evidence General Guidelines ............................................................................. 86
30.2 Photographing Impression Evidence .................................................................................... 86
30.3 Three-Dimensional Impressions ........................................................................................... 87
30.4 Casting Methods .................................................................................................................. 88
30.5 Two Dimensional Impressions/Prints .................................................................................... 89
30.6 Collection and Packaging ..................................................................................................... 89
30.7 Exemplars and Standards .................................................................................................... 89
30.8 SICAR submission instructions for emailed images .............................................................. 90
30.9 Tire Exemplars and Standard ............................................................................................... 94
31.0 Computer Evidence ..................................................................................................................... 95
Appendix A: How to Make a Paperfold .................................................................................................. 96
Appendix B: Firearms and Terminology ................................................................................................ 97
Manual Revision History ........................................................................................................................ 98
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
1.0 FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION MISSION STATEMENT
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1.0 FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION MISSION STATEMENT
Founded in 1931, the mission of the Oregon State Police is to serve the State of Oregon with a diverse
workforce dedicated to the protection of people, property and natural resources.
The purpose of the Forensic Services Division (FSD) is to serve the people of Oregon with the highest
standards of science, ethics and professionalism in recovering, preserving and analyzing physical
evidence.
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2.0 INTRODUCTION
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2.0 INTRODUCTION
OSP has five laboratories across the state located in Bend, Central Point, Clackamas (Portland Metro),
Pendleton and Springfield. The labs provide services in the scientific examination of physical evidence,
collection and preservation of evidence, analysis of major crime scenes and expert testimony regarding
the scientific examinations. In addition, the FSD manages and administers the CODIS database and the
State of Oregon’s breath-testing instruments and officer certification.
All five OSP laboratories are accredited to the ISO/IEC 17025:2005 standard and ASCLD-LAB
Supplemental Requirements for Testing Laboratories. Additionally the DNA Unit is accredited to the FBI
Quality Assurance Standards (FBI QAS) for casework and database analysis.
The services of the laboratories are available to all local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in
Oregon for the purpose of rendering assistance in criminal investigations and judicial proceedings.
Casework will also be conducted for the defense upon court order. Normally, all laboratory examinations,
court appearances, and travel expenses are available without charge.
The following is a list of the disciplines and a brief description of the type of forensic services provided.
BIOLOGY PROCESSING
The screening and preliminary processing of physical evidence for biological material (e.g., blood,
semen, saliva) and the sampling of Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence (SAFE) kits for DNA analysis.
Biology processing will be conducted on person crimes. The biology processing analysis of property
crime cases has been temporarily suspended. A person crime case is defined as any case where a
victim is physically injured, there is a threat or an attempt to injure (e.g., drive-by shooting at a
house), or actions could have reasonably led to the injury of a person (e.g., arson of a church).
Additionally, the charge of felon in possession where the suspect is an “armed career criminal” is
considered a person crime case.
BREATH ALCOHOL PROGRAM (IMPLIED CONSENT UNIT)
The Implied Consent Unit services Oregon’s Breath Alcohol Program. The unit approves breath
alcohol instruments, certifies the instruments, provides instrumentation, training and certification for
the users and offers expert testimony. The services of this unit are not accredited.
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
Qualitative analysis of physical evidence to determine if a controlled substance is present. Also
includes the analysis of evidence collected from suspected clandestine laboratories to determine the
identification of chemicals and processes used to manufacture controlled substances. Quantitative
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2.0 INTRODUCTION
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(purity) analysis may be performed on an as needed basis only for methamphetamine cases that will
be prosecuted in federal court.
CRIME SCENE / FIELD INVESTIGATIONS
The analysis of physical locations or objects suspected to be involved in a crime. Analysis may
include recognition, documentation, collection and preservation of evidence and/or performing
scientific analysis, interpretation, and reconstruction.
DNA ANALYSIS
The analysis of biological evidence for the presence of autosomal-STR & Y-STR DNA. When an
interpretable DNA profile is developed, it can be compared to relevant standards and/or searched in
the CODIS database. The DNA unit also manages and administers the State’s CODIS database.
DNA analysis will be conducted on person crimes. The DNA analysis of property crime cases has
been temporarily suspended.
FIREARMS/TOOLMARKS
Screening and comparisons of bullets and cartridge cases, firearm functionality, caliber determination
of cartridge cases and projectiles, proximity determination tests and restoration of obliterated
markings. Tool mark analysis compares marks left during the commission of a crime to test marks
from a tool possibly used in the crime. The IBIS database is used for the correlation of fired cartridge
cases to other entered cartridge case evidence in an attempt to provide links to previously unknown
related crimes.
LATENT PRINTS
Latent print processing is the physical and chemical processing of evidentiary items to develop and
preserve friction ridge detail. Friction ridge detail developed on evidentiary items is subsequently
compared to a person or persons of interest. The Western Identification Network (WIN) Automated
Biometric Identification System (ABIS) and the FBI’s Next Generation Identification (NGI) databases
are composed of known fingerprint standards and can be utilized to search latent prints of unknown
origin.
TOXICOLOGY
The qualitative analysis of biological fluids (e.g., urine) for controlled substances, common
pharmaceuticals and poisons. Quantitative analysis of drugs in blood is performed on postmortem
toxicology cases. Volatiles analysis (e.g., blood alcohol determination) is provided for ante-mortem
and post-mortem cases.
TRACE EVIDENCE
The screening for and analysis of ignitable liquids, explosives, fibers, glass, paint, hair, footwear and
tire impressions, physical match and miscellaneous evidence including but not limited to poisons and
inhalants.
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3.0 LABORATORY LOCATIONS AND SERVICES
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3.0 LABORATORY LOCATIONS AND SERVICES
Note: Crime Scene response regions differ from the above coverage map as follows:
Portland Metro response region includes: Polk, Marion, Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties
Springfield response region includes: Curry and Josephine Counties
Agencies submitting crime scene evidence should contact the primary crime scene analyst that
responded to the scene prior to submitting any evidence. Evidence associated with a crime scene
that Forensic Services Division Crime Scene Analysts responded to will be initially submitted to the
agency’s regional laboratory as shown in Figure 1 regardless of where the response team was
dispatched from. The following is a list of services provided in each laboratory in the Forensic Services
Division; however, evidence may be transferred from one lab to another in order to complete the work
more efficiently.
Figure 1: Service Areas for the Oregon State Police, Forensic Services Division Laboratories
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3.0 LABORATORY LOCATIONS AND SERVICES
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Portland Metro Lab
Biology Processing
Chemistry
Controlled
Substances
Clandestine Lab
Analysis
Meth. Quant
DNA
DNA analysis
Y-STR analysis
CODIS
Field Investigations
Firearms/Tool mark analysis
Implied Consent Program
Toxicology
Post-mortem
Ante-mortem
Blood Alcohol
analysis
Latent Print Analysis
Trace Evidence analysis
Arson
Explosives
Fibers
Glass
Impressions
Hairs
Paint
Trace Processing
Miscellaneous
Central Point Lab
Biology Processing
Chemistry
Controlled Substances
Clandestine Lab Analysis
Field Investigations
Firearms Processing
Latent Print Analysis
Serial Number Restoration
Bend Lab
Biology Processing
Chemistry
Controlled Substances
Field Investigations
Latent Print Analysis
Pendleton Lab
Biology Processing
Chemistry
Controlled Substances
Field Investigations
Firearms Processing
Latent Print Processing
Serial Number Restoration
Springfield Lab
Biology Processing
Chemistry
Controlled Substances
Field Investigations
Firearms Processing
Latent Print Analysis
Toxicology
Ante-mortem
Blood Alcohol analysis
Trace Evidence analysis
Paint
Trace Processing
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4.0 CASE COMMUNICATION
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4.0 CASE COMMUNICATION
The laboratory will communicate with the customer when all or part of the requested analysis is
canceled or changed. This will occur either via a two-way conversation or via one-way communication
(e.g., laboratory report, email, Evidence Refusal Form, voicemail)
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5.0 CANCELLATION OF REQUESTED ANALYSIS
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5.0 CANCELLATION OF REQUESTED ANALYSIS
A request may be canceled by an OSP FSD employee, requesting agency or an employee from the
District Attorney’s Office. When the request is canceled by an OSP FSD employee, the customer must
be notified and the communication will be documented.
The Law Enforcement Agency or District Attorney may cancel the requested analysis at any time. If at
the time of the cancellation, the evidence has been opened and the process of analysis and/or
examination has begun, a report describing the work completed to date will be issued.
OSP FSD may decide to cancel a request for analysis and return the evidence to the law enforcement
agency. The reason for canceling a request for analysis includes but is not limited to the following: For
chemistry related cancelations see section 14.2.1
Information received from the prosecutor that the case has been adjudicated/resolved by
dismissal, plea, diversion, etc.
Evidence was received by certified carrier and did not include a list of the contents sent to the lab
Evidence is not properly sealed or evidence seal is not initialed. Additional item(s) received with
the submission that was not the subject of analysis (e.g. drug paraphernalia, boxes, bags, keys,
etc.)
Evidence received is substantially different than the description in the documentation by the
customer (e.g. dramatic difference in color, size or shape, incorrect caliber or make of weapon,
more cartridge cases were received than described, wrong name on evidence, etc.)
Evidence description is too vague and laboratory is unable to determine whether the intended
evidence was received
Evidence is missing or is less than what is described in the documentation
Property Crime evidence is not accepted for Biology or DNA Analysis
Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Kit that meets the definition of anonymous
Sharp objects were not packaged in a puncture-resistant container
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
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6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
It is important that evidence be collected, handled, and stored in a way that will ensure its integrity.
6.1 General Evidence Handling Guidelines
Protect yourself and others
Protect the evidence
Consider all types of forensic evidence
Document the chain of custody
Document the location of evidence recovery with notes, sketches, and/or photographs
Mark the evidence and/or packaging with a case identifier, description of evidence, initials,
and date.
Evidence seals must be initialed and the initials should cross over the seal in such a way
as to provide visual indication of entry into the evidence package.
Package each item of evidence separately, with the exception of latent lift cards and
fingerprint standards.
Allow wet biological stains to air dry
Obtain appropriate standards, when needed, for comparison to evidence
Use packaging that is appropriate for the specific type of evidence, such as paper bags,
envelopes, plastic bags (for non-biological evidence), cardboard boxes, metal cans, glass
jars, etc.
Select a sufficiently large package to allow the item to be re-sealed after examination.
Conversely, avoid oversized packaging when submitting small quantities of evidence (e.g.
residues).
6.2 Evidence Collection
6.2.1 Packaging
Appropriate packaging depends on the type of evidence, the condition of the evidence, and the
laboratory examination(s) requested. Use the information in Table 1 below (or consult the section specific
to the type of evidence) to select the proper way to package it. All packaging types should be clean and
unused (e.g. no grocery bags that have previously been used.).
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6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
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Evidence Packaging
Packaging Type
Uses
Paper bags or envelopes
Most biological material and clothing (marijuana, psilocybin
mushrooms, blood or semen stained items, condoms, etc.). If unable
to air dry prior to packaging, submit to the laboratory as soon as
possible and notify them that it is a wet sample.
Plastic bags or Ziplocs
Dry, non-biological material such as powder
Metal cans, specialized plastic
bags, static-proof bags
Arson evidence, Explosives evidence
Plastic buckets
Samples from clandestine laboratories that are individually packaged
in glass vials and set in an absorbent material (e.g. vermiculite, kitty
litter, etc.) in the plastic bucket
Glass or plastic container
Liquid drug samples, syringe contents, samples from clandestine
laboratory (glass containers only), miscellaneous trace samples, etc.
Paper folds and Post-It notes,
then placed into a clean
envelope
Small pieces of trace evidence, hairs, fibers, minute glass particles,
paint chips, residue amounts of powder drugs, etc. Place inside a
larger paper envelope.
Use of Post-It notes: use either gloved fingers or a tool (e.g., forceps,
tweezers, etc.) to collect the trace evidence, place on the adhesive
of a post-it note, and then fold the note over on itself and label.
Cardboard boxes
Firearms, knives, large pieces of plate glass, a piece of flooring with
a shoeprint, etc. Offers protection from sharp edges and the depth
protects one surface of the evidence from rubbing.
Sharps tube
Syringes, broken glass
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6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
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6.2.2 Evidence Seals
A proper seal ensures that evidence has not been accessed, altered, compromised, or lost during
storage/transportation. Evidence seals must be tamper-evident (e.g., heat seals, tamper-evident
adhesive seals, tamper-evident tape, combination of packing tape and tamper-evidence tape, etc.) and
span the approximate length of the potential opening. Sealed evidence must be initialed and, when
possible, the initials(or equivalent unique identifier)should cross over the seal in such a way as to
provide visual indication of entry into the evidence packaging if the seal is broken. Staples and other
sealing techniques can be used in addition to the acceptable tamper-evident seal
Evidence that is not properly sealed will not be accepted by the laboratory. Evidence that is not
properly sealed and delivered via a Commercial Parcel Delivery Provider (UPS, FedEx, USPS) will
be shipped back.
Note: Figure 2 – If packing tape was used to seal the length of the paper bag, then evidence tape which
is perpendicular to the packing tape and covers its entire width would be considered an acceptable seal.
Figure 2: Not Acceptable
Figure 2: Acceptable
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6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
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6.3 Chain of Custody (COC)
The FSD maintains a chain of custody for all evidence from time of receipt at the lab to when it is
returned to the agency. Each laboratory utilizes a secure electronic chain of custody record through the
JusticeTrax Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for all evidence submitted to the
laboratory regardless of the method of submission. For evidence that is personally delivered, the initial
COC (when evidence is received in the laboratory) is documented on the Form 49 with a date, time and
signature of person receiving the evidence submission.
6.3.1 Evidence Submission
Evidence should be submitted to your local laboratory, even if your local laboratory does not offer the
service you are requesting, unless it falls under one of the exceptions listed below or there is verbal
approval to send the evidence directly to another lab. For example, although DNA analysis is only
performed at the forensic laboratory in Portland, you should still submit all evidence needing DNA
analysis, including standards, to your local laboratory.
Exceptions: Arson, blood alcohol, toxicology, and emailed images for footwear or tire make/model
search.
Prior to submitting a large quantity of evidence in a single case, a triage discussion with a local analyst
should occur. Refer to the Chemistry section in this manual for additional guidance specific to
submission of a large quantity of drugs. OSP Forensic Scientists are trained to manage the evidence in
your case by ensuring that the evidence gets to the appropriate section for examination. That section
may be in another laboratory, in which case the evidence is transferred without additional requests by
the submitting agency. The analyst managing your case evidence in your local laboratory will be your
contact person for status updates.
Methods of Submission
For all methods, care should be taken to ensure that evidence is not lost, damaged, or contaminated,
and that the chain of custody on all exhibits can be established and maintained.
Evidence may be submitted to the forensic laboratory by one of the following methods:
Personal/Individual delivery (please call for an appointment before delivering to the lab)
A secure drop box
USPS Mail Delivery
Commercial Parcel Delivery Provider (e.g., Federal Express, UPS)
Electronic transfer of digital images or data (Latent Print images are not accepted in this manner)
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Content List for Shipped Evidence
Shipped Evidence must include a content list of the evidence being submitted so that the laboratory can
verify that it has received the intended item(s). The content sheet must include the agency case number
and description of the packages.
Example:
Agency
Case
Number
Description
(Agency Evidence Number, Number and Type of Packages)
Lab Use
Only
xx-xxx
#567 - One heat sealed bag
#568 – One brown paper bag
If there are discrepancies between the description and the packages received the evidence will
be returned to the agency.
6.4 Forensic Services Request Form
6.4.1 Laboratory Analysis Requests
A Forensic Services Request Form (Form 49) or equivalent documents the agency’s request for service
and must be submitted with the evidence. A single Forensic Services Request Form may document
multiple requests for service in any of the disciplines available through the FSD. Additional requests for
service may be generated by the FSD as a result of communication with the submitting agency or DA.
There are different laboratory request forms based on the type of analysis.
General Request
Sexual Assault Case
DRE
IBIS only request
The forms are available at http://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/Pages/OSP%20FORENSICS.aspx,
or through the local Forensic Laboratory or State Police Office.
The majority of the information on the forms is self-explanatory; however, a description of each line item
is described below. On the Sex Assault form, information regarding the questions is provided on the
back side of the form.
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6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Rush—indicate due date and reason for rush (e.g. trial date, public safety concern)
Additional Suspect Information Only and Previous Evidence Submitted to this/any
Laboratory – check if either applies.
Agency – fill in your agency and list any secondary agencies
Agency Case # – fill in your agency case number. If a secondary agency is involved in the case,
please list that information
Case Restriction—see back of Form 49 for more information.
Offense – fill in the highest offense associated with the case (be specific).
Offense Date –date the crime occurred, not the date the evidence was collected or turned into an
agency’s property room.
County of Venue – District Attorney’s Office that will have access to a copy of the laboratory
report. Fill in the county that the case will be prosecuted in, which may not necessarily be the
county your agency is in.
Names of Involved Individuals –all victims, suspects, and other involved individuals. Complete
all fields if known.
Investigating Officer, phone number, and email – name, phone number, and email of primary
investigating officer
Submitting Officer –individual that delivered, mailed, or shipped the evidence to the laboratory.
Agency Exhibit – fill in your exhibit numbers for the evidence that is being submitted.
Description of Evidence – describe the evidence that is being submitted. The list of evidence
should be exactly the same as the evidence being submitted. Do not list additional evidence that
was not submitted, or submit evidence that is not listed. Indicate from where/whom each
evidence item was collected, if known.
Exam Requested – this is what you want the laboratory to do with the evidence. If you are
uncertain about what to request contact the Laboratory for guidance. Be as descriptive as
possible or use the drop-down menu in the fillable Form 49 (available online). The Forensic
Services Division Laboratory reserves the right to select appropriate methods of analysis based
on the type of evidence and information provided.
LEAVE SHADED AREAS OF THE FORM BLANK.
6.4.2 Evaluation of the Request for Analysis
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
6.0 GENERAL EVIDENCE HANDLING
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Prior to initiating the testing of evidence, FSD personnel will evaluate the request(s) for service, the
evidence items, and case history provided.
The evaluation will consist of the following:
1. Checking the evidence packaging for an acceptable seal. If evidence is not properly sealed and
initialed the evidence will be returned to the agency.
2. Confirm that the case meets the acceptance criteria in the Operations Manual and the Physical
Evidence Manual.
3. Forensic Services Request Form (Form 49) will be reviewed to ensure that FSD can provide the
services requested (OSP FSD will have initial discretion over the selection of methods for
analysis, the totality of the analysis, and the items tested) and that the request meets the
laboratory acceptance criteria.
4. The evidence and documentation will be reviewed to ensure the following:
A Sexual Assault case does not include a SAFE kit that meets the definition of anonymous.
Evidence is not missing or less than what is described in the documentation.
Evidence received is not substantially different than the description in the documentation by
the customer (e.g. dramatic difference in color, size or shape, incorrect caliber or make of
weapon, more cartridge cases were received than described, wrong name on evidence, etc.)
6.4.3 Agency Reports
An agency report specific to the items of evidence submitted should accompany the evidentiary items
for all requests with the exception of toxicology, drug chemistry, blood alcohol, methamphetamine
quantitation, and anonymous analysis requests.
6.4.4 Rushes
If your request is a “Rush”, indicate so in the appropriate location on the Forensic Services Request
(Form 49), along with the date the request needs to be completed, if known. Common reasons for
“Rushes” are upcoming trial dates, an immediate need for investigative leads and public safety.
For drug evidence, the only accepted routine reasons for designating a case RUSH is an actual court date
or custody. All other drug cases will need supervisor approval before it is prioritized as a RUSH.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
7.0 LABORATORY REPORTS
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7.0 LABORATORY REPORTS
7.1 Laboratory Online Information System (LOIS)
Electronic reports and case status is accessible through the Laboratory Online Information System
(LOIS). Anyone who is a member of an agency serviced by the Oregon State Police Forensic Services
Division, and needs access to the work done on behalf of their agency, may request LOIS access. The
help button at the following website contains the procedure for accessing LOIS,
http://lois.osp.state.or.us/lois.
A final report is released electronically to the agency/customer that made the request for service through
LOIS. An automatic notification of the report availability is also sent to a designee at the District
Attorney’s office that serves that agency/customer.
7.2 Forensic Laboratory Evaluation Form and Surveys
Periodically, the Forensic Services Division will send evaluation forms or surveys to its service agencies.
The following are the different categories of evaluation forms or surveys that may be sent:
Intoxilyzer (sent via LOIS)
Crime Scene Investigation
Court Room Testimony
Laboratory Analysis (sent via LOIS)
These evaluations and surveys provide valuable feedback on our goal of providing quality and timely
scientific, technical, and investigative support. Should you receive an evaluation form or survey, please
take the time to provide your feedback.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
8.0 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS (CRIME SCENES)
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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8.0 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS (CRIME SCENES)
OSP FSD is available to assist with crime scene investigations at the request of any law enforcement
agency, District Attorney’s Office or the State Medical Examiner’s Office. A request can be made during
normal business hours (8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday -Friday) by calling your local laboratory (see
laboratory contact information).
After hours, call OSP Regional Dispatch Center at 541-776-6111 (Southern Regional Dispatch Center) or
503-375-3555 (Northern Regional Dispatch Center) and they will contact the on-call forensic laboratory
supervisor.
Laboratory management will assess each request based upon the crime type, the complexity of the
forensic services needed, available resources within the laboratory and the investigating agency, and the
anticipated response time. Crime scene response is primarily limited to homicides/attempted homicides,
skeletal remains and buried body recovery and officer-involved shootings. If special circumstances exist
that require the skills of trained forensic personnel, crime scene assistance may be provided for
additional types of crime scenes.
If a search warrant is deemed necessary, it should be procured prior to the arrival of laboratory staff and
available for them to review. It is the responsibility of the investigating agency to provide crime
scene security for the duration of the crime scene processing.
Accident Reconstructionist typically have specialized equipment to diagram the scene. Consider
securing response from a reconstructionist in addition to crime laboratory response, if necessary.
8.1 Crime Scene Services Offered
Evidence identification, documentation, preservation, and collection
Crime scene photography
Firearms collection and packaging
Bullet trajectory determinations
Bloodstain pattern analysis and reconstruction
Shooting scene reconstruction
Biological evidence testing and collection
Alternate light source processing
Impression enhancement, casting or lifting (e.g., shoe or tire)
Metal detection
Latent print processing
Trace evidence collection
Body processing
Buried body excavation and scattered remains recovery
Vehicle processing
Autopsy photography and assistance
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
8.0 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS (CRIME SCENES)
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Crime scene reconstruction
8.2 Crime Scene Photography
Photographing a crime scene should be performed in a systematic manner to ensure that all necessary
photos are taken. Photographs should to be taken before any evidence is moved. The best approach to
crime scene photography is to sequentially take overall, midrange and close-up photographs.
Overall Photographs
These photographs show the relationship of evidence in an area (e.g., photographs of a living
room showing a body and numerous other items of evidence), or document the location of a
crime scene (e.g., a photograph of the outside of a house showing the street number).
Overlapping photos are recommended to ensure that the entire area is documented. If placards
are utilized to identify the location of evidence at the scene, photos should be taken before and
after their placement.
Midrange Photographs
These photographs document the relationship of evidence items to other items within an area.
Close-up Photographs
These pictures show the detail of an individual item of evidence. Close up photographs should be
taken with and without a scale.
Examination-quality Photographs
High-resolution, close-up photographs containing a scale and taken at 90 degrees of specific
items in a manner to capture maximum detail. Examination-quality photographs are required for
footwear and tire impressions and latent print comparisons.
8.3 Vehicle Examinations
Note the following information about the vehicle:
Year
Make
Model
License plate
VIN
Color
Damage
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
8.0 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS (CRIME SCENES)
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Below is a list (not all-inclusive) of things to consider, based on the case circumstances, when examining
a vehicle. It may help to divide the interior into quadrants and search each quadrant from ceiling to floor.
Examine the exterior of the vehicle. Look for transfer evidence relevant to the case (e.g., paint
from a hit-and-run vehicle, clothing impressions on the plastic of a front bumper, hair caught on
the broken edge of windshield glass).
Document tire information for all tires including manufacturer, type, and size. If the tires need to
be compared to tire track evidence the forensic laboratory should be contact to assist in collecting
to an exemplar from each tire.
Note the position of seat(s), tilt wheel, accelerator and brake pedals, and rearview mirror.
Examine the interior of the vehicle and the trunk for potential evidence.
Examine the engine compartment and undercarriage of the vehicle for potential evidence.
Take known standards from the upholstery, carpet, or other vehicle for possible later
comparisons.
If paint or glass damage is apparent, take known standards from the broken glass and areas of
damaged paint.
8.4 Body Processing
To prevent potential loss of fragile biological evidence, it may be necessary to collect swabs from the
body at the crime scene prior to transporting it to the medical examiner’s office for autopsy. Take into
consideration the position of the body, the context of the scene and the case scenario in deciding when
to collect. To achieve optimal collection of the evidence listed below, a total of two water-moistened
swabs should be used. Information about what evidence was collected at the scene should be
disseminated to the deputy medical examiner or agency representative so that additional collection of the
same swabs is not duplicated during autopsy.
Evidence of:
Collect the Following:
Manual strangulation
Swabs from neck and behind ears
Ligatures/bindings
Swabs from ends of ropes/ties
Dragging
Swabs from ankles/arms/wrists, as applicable
Pocket-rifling
Swabs from turned-out pockets
Stretched/torn clothing
Swabs from stretched areas/around torn areas
Possible sexual assault with exposed
genitalia
Swabs from inner thighs
8.5 Postmortem Examinations
Photograph the following:
Full body photographs of victim as delivered to the postmortem examination.
Full body photographs of victim unclothed.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
8.0 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS (CRIME SCENES)
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Mid-range and close-up photographs of exterior wounds, bloodstain patterns, and/or identifying
marks (e.g., tattoos) with and without a scale.
Photograph any body parts or evidence requested by the Medical Examiner (e.g., bullets, bullet
paths
It is recommended that the following evidence be collected during a postmortem examination.
Remember that the postmortem examination may be the only (or last) chance to collect this evidence, so
it is prudent to collect more than you think you need, rather than less, in these situations.
DNA standard. Two to four oral swabs should be collected. If oral sodomy is suspected, a blood
standard should also be collected using sterile swabs, filter paper, or one lavender/purple-
stoppered EDTA tube.
Blood sample for blood alcohol and/or toxicology. Collect at least two (2) gray-stoppered tubes.
Femoral blood is preferred; however, blood drawn from other sources can also be analyzed.
Urine sample for toxicology. Collect at least one (1) red-stoppered tube.
Head hair standard from various areas on the head. Standards must be pulled, not cut.
Pubic hair standard from various areas in the pubic region. Standards must be pulled, not cut.
Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence (SAFE) kit
1
Penile Swabbing Forensic Evidence (PSFE) kit
Fingernail scrapings
Clothing, one item per bag
Evidence items located in or on the body
Fingerprint, palm print, and/or major case prints
2
(for elimination purposes and identification)
8.6 Decomposed Remains
If the human remains are too badly decomposed, it may be impossible to obtain an adequate oral or
blood standard and thus necessary to collect an alternate type of DNA standard. Consult with the
forensic pathologist performing the postmortem examination to determine the most appropriate sample
for a DNA standard. Alternative tissue samples include deep muscle tissue or bone.
1
Consider collecting this evidence even when sexual assault is not immediately suspected. If it is not collected and becomes
relevant later in the investigation, the samples may be difficult or impossible to recover. See “Biological Evidence – Sexual
Assault Evidence Kits and Penile Swabbing Evidence Kits” for further information.
2
Major case prints include recording standards from all areas of friction ridge skin (i.e. finger tips, fingerprints, finger joints,
edges of the fingers, palms, and edges of the hands).
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
9.0 MISSING PERSONS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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9.0 MISSING PERSONS (‘MP’)
If a Missing Person case remains active and unresolved after 30 days have elapsed, a DNA sample
directly associated with the missing person should be obtained. DNA Analysis on the majority of missing
person cases will be performed by OSP. The law enforcement agency that accepted the missing person
report shall attempt to obtain a DNA sample directly associated with the missing person (Direct
Reference Sample, described below) and from biological family members of the missing person (Family
Reference Standard, described below). Documentation necessary to enable the agency to use the
sample in conducting searches of DNA databases must be provided and the necessary forms can be
found on the OSP website.
9.1 Secondary Standards or Direct Reference Sample
Agencies should attempt to obtain DNA samples known to be from the missing person. Known sources
of DNA may include:
Previously collected medical specimens (which may have been stored at a hospital or clinic).
3
Personal items, items used only by the missing person or rarely used by anyone else (e.g., a
toothbrush, lipstick, or other item containing saliva or blood). A family reference standard (see
below) must also be submitted to confirm the personal item is from the missing person.
Other Secondary Standards (not preferred)
Hairs are not the preferred direct reference sample because of various concerns and
contamination. OSP discourages hair submission if at all possible and asks agencies to work to
get a better sample.
Baby teeth are not preferred due to the potential for mix-ups with other children’s teeth and the
possible lack of mitochondrial DNA.
9.2 DNA from the Missing Person’s Relatives (Family Reference Standards)
When medical specimens and the personal items mentioned in the section above are not available, DNA
testing can be done on samples from biological (blood) relatives. DO NOT collect DNA samples from
adoptive parents, adopted children, stepparents and other non-biological relatives. DNA from these
relatives cannot be used to identify the missing person. The closer the family relationship to the missing
person the more likely a match can be made. It is more difficult to make a match between decedent
remains and distant relatives. In some cases, it is useful to have DNA samples from specific relatives. If
3
Include information from the medical facility detailing how the sample was stored (i.e., was a fixative like
formaldehyde or formalin used). The use of fixatives may compromise the ability to obtain a usable DNA profile.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
9.0 MISSING PERSONS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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DNA from the missing person’s children is used, it is helpful to have DNA from the children’s other
biological parent (mother or father).
Preferred Family Reference Samples in order of preference
1. Both parents or known identical twin
2. One parent, spouse and children
3. Children and spouse
4. One parent and sibling
5. Siblings (two or more)
9.3 Family Reference Standard Collection
For information on how to collect oral swabs standards, please refer to section 11.7.1 Collecting Oral
Swab Standards.
Family Reference Standards will be collected by the law enforcement agency involved in the missing
person investigation, and entail collecting oral cells on swabs, packing the swabs correctly and fully
completing the proper documentation provided. Oregon State Police provides the required paperwork in
a fillable, on-line format on its website at
https://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/Pages/MissingPersons.aspx.
Family Reference Standards should be collected separately for each biological family member sets of
standards may need to be collected. All Family Reference Standards should be sent directly to the
Oregon State Police Portland Metro Forensic Laboratory for analysis. The Oregon State Police DNA
Laboratory has the capability to enter the completed DNA profiles into the appropriate CODIS
databases. For more information on the CODIS database go to the following website:
http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/lab/biometric-analysis/codis
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
10.0 UNIDENTIFIED REMAINS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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10.0 UNIDENTIFIED REMAINS
Refer to ORS Chapter 146 - Investigations of Deaths, Injuries and Missing Persons.
10.1 Unidentified Remains
“Unidentified human remains” do not include human remains that are part of an archaeological site or
suspect of being Native American. Archaeological remains are covered under ORS chapters 97 and 390
and ORS 358.905 to 358.961.
All unidentified human remains will be initially processed by the Medical Examiner’s Office. The OSP
Forensic Laboratories will not accept human remains with the exception of human hands for identification
purposes.
10.2 Identifying the Deceased
The State Medical Examiners (ME) Office is responsible for identifying deceased persons. The Forensic
Services Division may on occasion be requested to assist the Medical Examiner’s Office, or another
agency, with these identifications. Requests of this type should be made or coordinated through the
State ME’s Office. Friction ridge impressions obtained from unknown deceased persons may be
compared with known standards and/or searched through ABIS for the purpose of individualization or
exclusion.
Skeletal remains with all case documentation may be mailed to the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s
Office for anthropological examination. All agencies should contact the OSP-ME Anthropology
Section/Dr. Nici Vance at 971-673-8202 for instructions prior to sending the remains. All investigative
processes (e.g., dental record comparison, history/healed fracture comparisons, personal effects) will be
utilized in order to identify remains before DNA analysis will be attempted. The decision for DNA
analysis will be made by the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office.
Contact information:
Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office
13309 SE 84
th
Avenue, Suite 100
Clackamas, Oregon 97015
971-673-8200
Additional online resources:
The Oregon State Police Medical Examiner Division has all of the necessary paperwork for law
enforcement to successfully submit Direct Reference Samples or Family Reference Standards to OSP:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SME/pages/index.aspx.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
10.0 UNIDENTIFIED REMAINS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Access these forms under the heading, “DNA Submission Forms for Law Enforcement & Families”.
These forms can also be found on the OSP Forensic Services Division website, located under the
heading “Law Enforcement Agency Resources: National Missing Persons Programs”, found here:
http://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/Pages/OSP%20FORENSICS.aspx
The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) is the first national online repository for
missing persons records and unidentified decedent cases. For more information on NamUS go to the
following website: http://www.namus.gov/.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
11.0 BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
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11.0 BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
Biological fluids such as blood, semen, and saliva are frequently encountered as physical evidence in
many types of criminal investigations such as homicides, sexual assaults, assaults, robberies, and
burglaries.
11.1 Safety and Contamination Prevention
Current DNA technology allows for very small amounts of sample to be analyzed. Because of this,
inadvertent contamination of the evidence is possible if you do not take proper precautions. Individuals
who routinely collect biological evidence may want to work with their local laboratory to submit a DNA
elimination standard, so that they may be ruled out as possibly having contaminated a particular item of
evidence. Precautions to guard against contamination include:
Wear gloves and, as appropriate, a mask while collecting biological samples.
Change gloves frequently or anytime your gloves are contaminated with biological material.
Avoid touching the tips of cotton swabs with your fingers or to other unintended surfaces.
Avoid talking over swabs, blowing on swabs to make samples dry faster, etc. Consider
purchasing individually wrapped sterile swabs (e.g., Bode swabs).
Do not touch the water dropper bottle tip to any surface or evidence.
Clean tools (such as scissors or tweezers) that you might use to collect evidence with a dilute
bleach solution or product containing bleach. Alcohol (ethanol and methanol are both acceptable)
should be used to rinse residual bleach from those items that will come in direct contact with the
evidence. Do not use commercial disinfectant products (such as Clorox wipes) for the purposes
of decontamination unless they contain bleach or are designed specifically for laboratory surface
decontamination.
Do not lick envelope seals.
11.2 General Collection Guidelines
In general, wet or moist biological evidence should be dried and packaged into clean and previously
unused paper containers (e.g., envelopes, bags, cardboard boxes). Do not wrap the evidence first in
plastic and then inside paper (or vice versa) as these conditions could cause the evidence to degrade.
Package each item separately and properly label and seal the container. All evidence containing known
biological fluids should be marked with appropriate biohazard labels.
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11.0 BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Biological evidence is best maintained dried at temperature controlled room temperature (preferably
individually packaged in paper containers). If evidence cannot be air dried, liquid evidence should be
refrigerated (never frozen), and wet evidence should be frozen.
Table adapted from The Biological Evidence Preservation Handbook: Best Practices for Evidence Handlers
11.3 Alternate Light Source Searches
Use of an ultraviolet (UV) light, Woods lamp, or other alternate light source (ALS) with appropriate
colored goggles/glasses/filters may assist in the search for biological stains. Such devices can be helpful
in a search, given that many biological stains such as semen, saliva, and urine may fluoresce, or appear
bright, when viewed with an ALS in a darkened room.
However, there are three important points to remember when using an ALS to assist with searching for
biological stains:
Biological Material: Storage and Laboratory Submission
Blood
(liquid)
Urine
Bones
Hair
Swabs or
items with
biological
material
(including
standards)[
DRIED]
Swabs or
items with
biological
material
that cannot
be dried
[WET]
SAFE
Kits &
PSFE
Kits
Feces
Frozen
Never
Best
Accept
able
Best
Accept
able
Best
Refrigerated
Best
Less
than
24
hours
Acceptable
Accept
able
Temperature
Controlled
Less
than 24
hours
Accept
able
Best
Best
Less than
24 hours
Best
Room
Temperature
Accept
able
Accept
able
Acceptable
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
11.0 BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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1. Many other substances may exhibit fluorescence. Examples include but are not limited to food
products, beverages, cosmetics, and laundry detergents.
2. Not all semen, saliva, or urine stains will fluoresce with an ALS; lack of fluorescence does not
mean body fluids are not present.
3. Blood will not fluoresce when viewed with an ALS; rather, it will appear dark.
11.4 Blood Evidence
Blood evidence is common in violent crimes and property crimes. Bloodstains may appear red, red-
brown, tan, gray, or yellowish. Bloodstains may be undetectable to the unaided eye depending upon
evidence and stain characteristics. In addition to DNA, blood contains cells and proteins that allow the
laboratory to perform the following examinations:
Presumptive blood testing
Testing to indicate human or non-human origin
11.4.1 Collecting Dried Blood
If it is reasonable to transport the stained object, the entire item may be collected and submitted to the
laboratory. Be careful to seal all openings of a package since dried blood may flake off of an object. If the
stained object is not being transported, collect the blood by one of the following methods:
11.4.1.1 Swabbing
1. Moisten a sterile cotton swab using 1-2 drops of distilled water or tap water.
2. Gently swab the stain with the moistened swab tip until the swab thoroughly absorbs the blood.
Continue collecting the stain until it is either completely collected or a sufficient number of swabs
(up to 4) have been saturated. Attempt to concentrate the stain on as few swabs as possible.
3. Allow the swabs to thoroughly air dry.
4. Place the dried swabs in a paper container (e.g., paper envelope or bag). Swabs collected from
the same stain should be packaged together and facing the same direction.
5. Properly label and seal the container.
6. When the amount of blood is small, it is advised to select an unstained area adjacent to the
suspected bloodstain to collect (known as a substrate control). Repeat steps 1 through 5 on the
unstained area. Package the substrate control separately.
11.4.1.2 Cutting
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
11.0 BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Version #10
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This collection method may be desirable when the dried bloodstain is on an object such as the
upholstery of a car seat or carpeting. Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut the stained area, leaving
unstained margins surrounding the stain. Package into a paper container and properly label and seal the
container.
It is recommended that you consult with the District Attorney’s Office before destroying property since the
item may need to be repaired or replaced.
11.4.2 Collecting Liquid or Moist Blood – Large Quantity
1. Saturate up to 4 sterile cotton swabs with the blood.
2. Blood will coagulate so it is important to collect a good mix of clotted cells and serum.
3. Allow the swabs to thoroughly air dry.
4. Place the dried swabs in a paper container (e.g., paper envelope or bag). Swabs collected from
the same stain should be packaged together and facing the same direction.
5. Properly label and seal the container.
11.4.3 Collecting Liquid or Moist Blood – Small Quantity
1. Use swabs to collect the blood, concentrating the blood onto each swab. Attempt to concentrate
staining on as few swabs as possible.
2. Allow the swabs to thoroughly air dry.
3. Place the dried swabs in a paper container (e.g., paper envelope or bag). Swabs collected from
the same stain should be packaged together and facing the same direction.
4. Properly label and seal the container.
11.5 Saliva Evidence
Saliva stains are not usually evident from a visual examination. However, certain types of evidence
frequently contain traces of saliva (e.g., cigarette butts, drinking containers, adhesive surfaces of
envelopes, chewing gum, bite marks, masks, etc.).
11.5.1 Collecting Saliva Evidence
If the stained object is transportable, the item may be collected and submitted to the laboratory. If it is not
transportable, such as bite marks on a body, collect the saliva stain using the double swab technique:
1. Moisten a sterile cotton swab with 1-2 drops of distilled or tap water.
2. Thoroughly swab, with pressure, the suspected saliva stain.
3. While surface is still wet, thoroughly re-swab, with pressure, the same area with a dry sterile
swab to collect any remaining moisture.
4. Label the swabs as “wet” and “dry”.
5. Allow the swabs to thoroughly air dry.
6. Place the dried swabs in a paper container (e.g., paper envelope or bag). Swabs collected from
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the same area should be packaged together and facing the same direction.
7. Properly label and seal the container.
11.6 Semen Evidence
When the perpetrator of a sexual offense is a male, semen stains may be found on the victim as well as
on clothing, bedding, rags, upholstery and other objects. Semen stains may appear white, off-white,
yellow, tan or colorless and may have a crusted appearance. Semen stains may be undetectable to the
unaided eye depending upon evidence and stain characteristics.
Consider collecting the suspect’s underwear, pants, or other clothing items, as victim DNA could also be
transferred to the suspect or the suspect’s clothing.
11.6.1 Collecting Semen Evidence
Collect all suspected stained material (e.g., bedding, underwear or other clothing, etc.). Each item of
evidence should be packaged separately and carefully to prevent loss of any trace evidence (e.g., hairs)
that may be present.
Evidence with damp stains should be air dried. Consider marking the location of a damp stain by circling
it with permanent marker, as it may not be visible once it has dried.
Clean paper should be spread under the item to catch any debris, which may be dislodged during the
drying process. Clean paper should be placed between items hanging next to each other to prevent
cross-contamination. Package each item separately in paper bags or envelopes, along with any paper
used.
If the semen stain is on an object that cannot be easily submitted to the laboratory, contact your local
laboratory for collection instructions.
11.7 Adult and Child Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence (SAFE-A and SAFE-C) Kits
Biological evidence associated with the body of a potential sexual assault victim needs special attention.
The victim needs to be transported to a medical facility for a sexual assault examination. This should be
done as soon as possible in order to preserve what remains of the biological evidence and to document
any physical trauma. Consider having photographs taken of any physical trauma and collecting blood
and/or urine for toxicology testing as well. Attending medical personnel should collect the evidence by
using the appropriate Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Kit provided by the Forensic Services Division.
In general, if more than 120 hours has elapsed from the time of the sexual assault to the time of the
medical examination, the chances of finding semen evidence in the body of a living victim are greatly
diminished, although it may still be possible to detect male DNA. However, it may be prudent to collect a
SAFE Kit if you have any doubts or concerns about the timeline. This time range does not apply to
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11.0 BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
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deceased victims; it is recommended that you collect a SAFE Kit from deceased victims regardless of the
elapsed time.
Bathing, showering, and douching by the victim does not necessarily eliminate the possibility of finding
semen, saliva, or trace evidence on the body. A SAFE Kit should still be collected under these
circumstances.
Undergarments, worn by the victim during and/or immediately after the assault, are also good sources for
collecting biological and trace evidence. Package each clothing item separately.
11.8 Penile Swabbing Forensic Evidence (PSFE) Kits
The purpose of the PSFE kit is to collect DNA that may have been transferred to the male subject as a
result of sexual contact. In the absence of a PSFE kit provided by the Forensic Services Division,
evidence may be collected using sterile cotton swabs and envelopes.
Step 1: Collect four oral swabs.
Swab the inside of the mouth with four sterile cotton swabs.
Air-dry the swabs and place in the provided envelope.
Step 2: Collect two penis shaft swabs.
Using the double swab technique (see section 11.5.1), collect two swabs from the
entire penis shaft, avoiding the penile orifice.
Air-dry the swabs and place in the provided envelope.
Step 3: Collect two scrotum swabs.
Using the double swab technique (see section 11.5.1), collect two swabs from the
entire scrotum.
Air-dry the swabs and place in the provided envelope.
Step 4: Collect two pubic hair swabs.
Using the double swab technique (see section 11.5.1), collect two swabs from the
entire pubic hair area.
Air-dry the swabs and place in the provided envelope.
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Step 5: Collect head hair standards.
Collect 24 pulled and shed hairs from various areas of the head.
Place the hairs in the provided envelope.
Step 6: Collect pubic hair standards.
Collect 24 pulled and shed hairs from various areas of the pubic region.
Place the hairs in the provided envelope.
Step 7: Collect any additional evidence.
Rectal/anal area, bite mark, hickey, fingers, or other sites of possible evidence
transfer.
Use four swabs to collect evidence from internal body sites (e.g., rectum).
Use two swabs via the double swab technique (see section 11.5.1) to collect evidence
from external body sites (e.g., bite mark, hickey, fingers)
Air-dry the swabs and place in “Other Swabs” envelope. Label the envelope with the
area of collection and the purpose of collection (e.g., “bite mark on neck for saliva”)
Step 8: Complete forms and package evidence.
Fill out the Forensic Laboratory Information Form with as much information as is
available.
Place the Forensic Laboratory Information Form and the evidence samples in the
PSFE kit envelope. Seal with the provided red evidence tape and initial across the
seal.
Step 9: Collect the subject’s underwear.
If the subject was not wearing underwear at the time of sexual contact or afterward,
collect the subject’s pants.
Package clothing in a paper bag separate from the PSFE kit. Seal the bag with
evidence tape and initial across the seal.
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12.0 DNA ANALYSIS
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12.0 DNA ANALYSIS
Since blood, semen, and saliva originate as liquids, they can quickly coat or penetrate surfaces on which
they are deposited and may be difficult to remove once dried. Because no two humans are genetically
the same (except for identical twins), these body fluids are unique to the person from which they
originate. Performing DNA analysis on these fluids or stains can result in a genetic profile which can then
be compared to DNA profiles obtained from reference standards or from other items of evidence.
The nature of DNA analysis lends itself to a computerized identification system; thus, DNA profiles from
qualifying items of evidence can be compared to the COmbined DNA Index System (CODIS), a database
that maintains qualifying DNA profiles from convicted offenders, items of evidence, unidentified human
remains, and missing persons. In Oregon, this information is maintained at the state level. Searches of
the database also occur at a national level.
The type of DNA analysis currently performed at the Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratories can yield
much information.
DNA analysis can:
DNA analysis cannot:
Provide an association between an
item of evidence and an individual (or
individuals) and give an estimate of the
rarity of the evidentiary profile in
support of the association.
Determine the age or race of the person
who deposited DNA on an item
Exclude a person from being the donor
of an evidentiary DNA profile
Determine how old a sample is
Determine the gender of an individual
who deposited DNA on an item
Determine how a sample was deposited
(see “Crime Scene Investigations -
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis”)
Determine that biological material is
from a human
Differentiate between consensual and
non-consensual sexual contact
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
12.0 DNA ANALYSIS
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12.1 Body Fluid Analysis
DNA analysis can be highly successful when the sample in question originates from a body fluid (blood,
semen, and/or saliva), although other types of evidence (described below) are also appropriate for DNA
testing. Items suspected to contain body fluids should be submitted to the laboratory for examination.
12.2 Wearer DNA
Wearer DNA evidence results from repeated contact from (mostly) the same individual’s skin, and
includes items such as clothing items, baseball caps, and gloves. Items considered for wearer DNA
analysis should be submitted to the laboratory for examination. Note that the definition of wearer DNA
evidence can also be extended to items routinely handled by an individual but not necessarily worn, such
as backpacks and duffel bags, or tools brought to and left at a scene by a suspect.
12.3 Aggressive Handling DNA
Aggressive handling DNA evidence results from contact that is limited but not casual, which includes
items such as ligatures or victim’s clothing where the suspect groped or grabbed violently, or contact that
is casual but not limited, which includes items such as the steering wheel in a stolen vehicle. Items
considered for aggressive handling should be submitted to the laboratory for examination.
12.4 Touch DNA
Touch evidence is the category of DNA evidence originating from an item that has had both limited and
casual contact with an individual’s skin. This category primarily includes objects touched by an
individual’s hand for a short period of time, such as keys, door handles, gun triggers, light switches,
drawer handles, countertops, etc. If there is some ambiguity with respect to whether the item falls under
the touch or aggressive handling category, the DNA Unit should be contacted for more guidance.
Touch evidence will only be analyzed with prior approval from the DNA Unit Supervisor. The
case should meet all of the following criteria:
1. The case is a rape, attempted rape, homicide, or attempted homicide.
2. All other forensic avenues to identify a suspect or link a known suspect to the crime have been
exhausted.
3. A DNA result, possibly in conjunction with the CODIS database, is necessary to identify a suspect
or link a known suspect to the crime. Evidence items will not be processed to determine,
establish, or corroborate path of travel or location.
4. There should be a reasonable expectation that the suspect handled the item.
5. Every reasonable effort has been made to collect elimination standards from individuals who
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have routine or recent contact with these items.
If a case does not meet the above criteria, a private DNA laboratory may be of assistance if a suspect
standard is also available. If there is no suspect, analysis by a private laboratory may be of limited value
unless the OSP DNA laboratory is involved in the submission process. Unless arrangements are made
between the private laboratory and the OSP DNA unit in advance of the private laboratory’s analysis of
the evidence, the OSP DNA Unit is unable to accept profiles generated by private laboratories for entry
into CODIS.
12.4.1 Collecting Aggressive Handling or Touch DNA Evidence
Whether touch evidence or aggressive handling evidence, an abundance of caution should be used
when swabbing or packaging an item for submission. Touch and aggressive handling evidence should
be collected prior to the use of any latent print processing techniques on the item.
1. Moisten a sterile cotton swab with 1-2 drops of distilled or tap water.
2. Gently swab the area suspected of having been touched or handled.
3. Follow with a dry swab to collect any remaining moisture.
4. Label the swabs as “wet” and “dry.”
5. Allow the swab to thoroughly air dry.
6. Place the dried swabs in a paper container (e.g., paper envelope or bag). Swabs collected from
the same area should be packaged together and facing the same direction.
12.5 Criminal Paternity
The DNA Section of the Oregon State Police (OSP) Portland Metro Forensic Laboratory provides
paternity testing services on criminal cases. Please note, we do not perform testing for civil paternity
matters.
Criminal Paternity Test Kits are available from all OSP forensic laboratories. This kit includes instructions
and the materials required to collect the samples. For live births, oral swabs will be collected from the
mother, child and alleged father.
For products of conception (abortion or miscarriage), it is the responsibility of the health care provider to
separate fetal tissue from maternal tissue. Fetal tissue must be submitted in the provided sample tube. If
the fetal tissue has not been appropriately separated prior to submission, OSP will not accept the case.
Therefore, it is important that the provider have the kit and instructions at the time of the procedure.
Kits should be submitted directly to the Portland Laboratory. Please ensure the form included in the kit is
completed and submitted along with the F49. Missing information will result in a delay in analysis.
12.6 Y-STR Analysis
Y-STR testing, which involves the analysis of genetic material on the Y-chromosome (male
chromosome), is useful in DNA mixtures where there is an abundance of female DNA relative to the
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12.0 DNA ANALYSIS
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amount of male DNA in a sample. Suspect standards are needed for comparison, as Y-STR profiles are
not entered into CODIS. Because the Y-chromosome is passed from father to son, men in the same
paternal lineage (fathers, sons, brothers, uncles, etc., all having a common male ancestor) will generally
have exactly the same Y-STR profile. Traditional nuclear DNA analysis will be prioritized over Y-STR
analysis.
12.7 DNA Standards
DNA standards should be obtained from all listed individuals in a case who may have contributed DNA to
evidentiary items if those items will be referred for DNA analysis. This includes victim and suspect
standards, and, in sexual assault cases, standards from any recent (within 5 days) consensual sexual
partner(s). Elimination standards are especially critical when an item of evidence is collected from person
who can reasonably be assumed to have left their own DNA behind on an item, such as standards from
the wearer of an item of clothing (when a profile foreign to the wearer is the goal of analysis) or
standards from the regular driver(s) of a vehicle when submitting swabs from the steering wheel of a
stolen vehicle. These standards are compared to the DNA profiles obtained from the evidence to
determine inclusions and exclusions. DNA profiles from convicted offenders will not be used in lieu of
DNA standards for direct comparison to evidence profiles.
For living individuals, oral swabs (also referred to as buccal swabs) are recommended for routine use as
a DNA standard; however, blood samples are also acceptable. Blood standards are preferred as a DNA
standard for deceased individuals that are not severely decomposed or have not recently received a
blood transfusion. For recently transfused decedents, an oral swab standard is an appropriate DNA
standard.
It is not recommended to swab the bleeding wounds of a living individual for submission as a DNA
standard in lieu of collecting oral swabs. Depending on the activity that led to the wounds, this type of
sample could yield a mixture of DNA from more than one individual, no longer qualifying the sample for
use as a DNA standard.
12.7.1 Collecting Oral Swab Standards
1. Vigorously swab the inside of the mouth until 2-4 swabs are collected. The individual may do this
him/herself under your direct supervision.
2. Allow the swabs to air dry thoroughly.
3. Seal in a paper envelope labeled with the individual’s name, date, and “Oral Swab Standard.”
The swabs collected from one individual should be packaged together.
12.7.2 Collecting Blood Standards
1. Collect at least one vial of blood into a lavender top tube, which contains the preservative EDTA.
If the blood is being collected from a decedent,
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2. Up to 4 swabs of blood may be collected instead of a vial of blood.
3. Label the vial with the individual’s name and date collected, and then seal it in a box or padded
envelope to prevent breakage. Label the outer packaging with the individual’s name, date, and
“Blood Standard.”
4. Never store liquid blood tubes in the freezer. Refrigerate them instead.
12.8 Decomposed Remains
If the human remains are badly decomposed, it may be impossible to obtain an adequate oral or blood
standard and thus be necessary to collect an alternate type of DNA standard. Contact your local
laboratory for instructions on other collection and preservation options.
12.9 Secondary Standards
When a person of interest is unable to be located (e.g., missing person, fled area, etc.) or a standard can
otherwise not be obtained (e.g. lack of probable cause for a warrant), secondary standards may be used.
Suitable secondary standards include cigarette butts, drinking containers, or personal care items (e.g.,
toothbrush, razor, etc.) known to have been used only by the person in question. Note that if a mixture of
DNA from more than one individual is returned from a secondary standard, it is no longer suitable for use
as a secondary standard.
12.10 No Available Suspect Standards
Evidentiary items may still be referred for DNA analysis even if no suspect standards are available, as
the DNA profiles from the evidence may be suitable for comparison to the CODIS database. It is
important to note that in the event of a probative association to a CODIS profile, a known standard (e.g.,
oral swabs) will be required for confirmation.
12.11 High Throughput Property Crimes Program
This program has been temporarily suspended.
12.12 Private Laboratory Analysis
The Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division is unable to offer DNA analysis for urine,
mitochondrial DNA, drug paraphernalia associated with possession of a controlled substance (PCS), and
cases in which there is no victim.
For information regarding private laboratories available to conduct DNA testing, please contact your local
forensic laboratory. Please note that if evidence analysis by a private laboratory is performed without
prior consultation with the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division, it may be impossible to
search any profiles resulting from the private laboratory’s analysis within the CODIS database.
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13.0 LATENT PRINT EVIDENCE
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13.0 LATENT PRINT EVIDENCE
Friction ridge detail, also referred to as latent prints, is a widely recognized means of identification. Most
crime scene evidence has the potential to reveal comparable latent print impressions; therefore, one
should handle all evidentiary items with caution (i.e. with gloves and minimal contact). The chemical
composition of latent print residue is such that chemical techniques can be used to visualize latent prints
on both porous and non-porous substrates.
The services the Laboratory provides include the following:
Examination and processing of evidence for latent
prints.
Determination as to whether latent prints are of
comparison quality.
Comparison of these latent prints in an attempt to
identify a source.
Search for a possible source by utilizing the
Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS)
and/or the FBI’s Next Generation Identification
(NGI) database.
13.1 Collection, Packaging, and Submission of Evidence
In most circumstances, smaller items of evidence should be collected and submitted to the Lab for full
sequential processing. In this case, no processing (photographs with scales, dusting, etc.) should be
conducted by the agency unless absolutely necessary. Latent print evidence should be packaged in a
way to minimize the movement of the object without being too restrictive to cause wiping/rubbing (this
may destroy latent prints present on the object). Latent print evidence should never be in direct contact
with “packing peanuts.”
If items have been processed prior to submission to the laboratory, information regarding what type of
processing was performed should be documented and submitted with the evidence. Chemical
processing of evidentiary items should only be done in a laboratory setting.
Evidence exposure to water or dampness should be avoided. However, this exposure does not
necessarily destroy all latent prints. It is important that any wet or damp object be air-dried before it is
packed for shipment.
Paper items may be placed in a single envelope package for submission
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13.0 LATENT PRINT EVIDENCE
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Guide to Collection and Packaging of Latent Print Evidence
ACCEPTABLE
NOT ACCEPTABLE
DO use gloves to pick up items of evidence
being careful not to wipe possible latent prints
off the surface.
DON’T apply powder to obviously greasy, wet or
bloody surfaces, or to prints left in dust or soft
putty. Please photograph these latent prints or
submit the items to the laboratory for processing.
DO minimize handling of evidence.
DON’T wrap nonporous items in cotton or cloth as
they may damage or destroy latent prints.
DO fasten down large articles to a rigid surface
to prevent shifting and contact with other
items.
DON’T use “packing peanuts” directly in contact
with the evidence.
DO put latent lift cards in envelopes and mark
and seal.
DON’T directly cover evidence to be examined for
latent prints with evidence tape.
DO take complete and legible inked fingerprint
and palm print standards of all subjects without
SID numbers and/or FBI UCN numbers who
may have handled the evidence.
DO include full name, date of birth, and SID
numbers for all involved persons on the Form
49.
DO place evidentiary papers and documents in
manila envelopes, seal and submit to the
laboratory
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
13.0 LATENT PRINT EVIDENCE
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13.1.2 Digital Imaging
Visible latent prints can also be preserved via digital imaging. All digital images must be captured in a
lossless format (e.g., TIFF or RAW), contain a visible measuring device and have a resolution of at least
1000 pixels per inch (ppi) whenever possible. An overall photograph (in addition to the close-up image of
the impression) should be taken of the item (or scene) such that the latent print can be re-located on the
item (or within the scene). Images should be physically submitted to the laboratory via disk or thumb
drive.
13.1.1 Latent Print Lifts
Larger objects that cannot be easily transported or packaged may be processed in the field. Processing
may be performed by powdering the surface with an appropriately colored fingerprint powder and lifting
any visible latent prints. If possible, an image of the latent should be acquired prior to lifting. Multiple
prints in close proximity should be collected on the same lift, if possible. In some instances, one may
need to perform multiple lifts of the same print to obtain the best quality lift. The location, orientation and
any other pertinent information (e.g. multiple lifts of the same impression) should be recorded clearly on
the back of the lift card. If it is unlikely that the latent print can be lifted, then attempt to collect and
package the evidence for submission to the Laboratory
13.2 Submission of Inked Prints for Comparison Purposes
The investigator should take inked prints from all persons known to have handled the evidence
(elimination prints) to permit comparison with any latent prints located on the submitted evidence. If the
individual already has prints on file, their full name, date of birth, and SID number or FBI/UCN
number must be listed on the Form 49.
Often latent prints found at the scene of a crime involve areas of the palms, second and third joints of the
fingers, and the finger sides and tips. For this reason, the analyst may request that the investigator take
clear and complete inked standards (major case prints) of all ridges on the hands of suspects or persons
known to have legitimately handled the evidence to aid in comparisons. Palm prints should always
include recordings of the lower finger joints, as well as the outer edge of the palm (writer’s palm). Inked
standards should be submitted with the evidence.
13.3 Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS)
After comparisons are conducted with any known suspect’s prints, victim prints or submitted inked
standards, the remaining unidentified latent prints may be evaluated for ABIS quality and may be
searched against the Western Identification Network (WIN) ABIS and/or the FBI’s Next Generation
Identification (NGI) database. Latent prints that remain unidentified after a search in ABIS may be
registered in the Unidentified Latent Database (ULD) for future searches against new standards as they
are added to the database. The agency will be notified via a report if a registered print in the ULD is later
individualized. In the event the submitting agency should identify any latent prints the agency should
notify the laboratory so these latent prints can be purged from the ULD.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
13.0 LATENT PRINT EVIDENCE
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13.4 Identifying the Deceased
Refer to “Unidentified Remains” section in this manual.
Routine identifications for the purpose of clearing a Computerized Criminal History (CCH) record are
made through the Identification Services Section in Salem.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
14.0 DRUG CHEMISTRY
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14.0 DRUG CHEMISTRY
Drug chemistry analysis is the identification of specific chemicals that are designated as controlled by the
Oregon Administrative Rules.
14.1 Analysis of controlled substances
There are three categories of analysis related to controlled substances:
Controlled substance analysis – Qualitative analysis and identification of controlled
substances. In general, non-controlled substances are not identified (though exceptions do exist)
and Oregon law requires only the presence of a controlled substance be determined, not its
purity. Evidence can be found in both liquid and solid samples (e.g. tablets, powders, plant
material, syringe contents, etc.), varying in size from a residue to multi-kilogram submissions.
Clandestine laboratory analysis - Samples (controlled and non-controlled) are analyzed to
determine the method being used to manufacture an illegal drug. Theoretical drug yields based
upon the quantity of chemicals and precursors seized may also be possible. Typical clan lab
analyses involve methamphetamine and MDMA production – please contact your laboratory if
you suspect a substance other than one of these.
Methamphetamine Quantitation – Quantitative (purity) testing is performed for federal
sentencing in methamphetamine cases only. Request by a US Attorney is required prior to
laboratory analysis.
14.2 Chemistry Submissions
Refer to section 5.0 Cancelation of Requested Analysis for incorrect submissions that will result in the
evidence being returned to the agency.
14.2.1 Cancellation of Chemistry Requested analysis
Evidence was received by certified carrier and did not include a list of the contents sent to the lab
Evidence was not properly sealed or evidence seal was not initialed
More than 2 pharmaceutical pills, capsules or tablets were submitted
Pills, capsules or tablets were not submitted in a container that allows the viewing of the
evidence. (e.g. Plastic bag, manila envelope with a window)
Additional item(s) received with the submission that was not the subject of analysis (e.g. drug
paraphernalia, boxes, bags, keys, etc.)
Sharp objects were not packaged in a puncture-resistant container
Syringe was included that does not meet the submission requirements.
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14.0 DRUG CHEMISTRY
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14.2.2 Up to two items per defendant
Each laboratory normally limits analysis up to two items per defendant, so the investigating officer should
use discretion and submit only those two items that are essential to the case. Based on case
circumstances the analyst has the discretion to analyze one or both of the items unless otherwise noted.
Exceptions can be made by District Attorney’s Office request to the laboratory. In cases with multiple
suspects, an indication should be made as to what evidence belongs to which suspect. If no indication is
given, the laboratory reserves the right to choose the items for analysis. Further, if an item is specifically
related to a probable cause issue, it should be designated as such.
14.2.3 Large Quantities of Controlled Substances (for marijuana, see 14.2.4)
Prior to the submission of large quantities of controlled substances (e.g., more than 500 grams of heroin,
cocaine or methamphetamine), it is recommended that the officer contact the laboratory to make
arrangements for testing. These arrangements will ensure that the analysis is completed in a timely
manner and that the agency picks up this evidence shortly after testing.
14.2.4 Large Quantities of Plant Material (marijuana)
The material should not be submitted directly to the laboratory. A small sample of the material should be
removed, packaged, and submitted for analysis. In certain circumstances where a seizure’s entire weight
is needed, laboratory personnel can assist with the weighing of large submissions. In such
circumstances, it is recommended that the submitting officer contact the laboratory prior to submission to
discuss analytical needs.
14.2.5 Pills, Capsules and Tablets
If the capsules or tablets are commercially produced pharmaceuticals, no more than two of each
type should be submitted to the laboratory for confirmation of the contents.
Clandestinely produced or suspected counterfeit tablets may contain controlled substances
which are affected by sentencing enhancements. More than two of this type of item may be
submitted to the laboratory.
The number and description (e.g., color, shape, imprint) of pills, capsules and/or tablets should
be listed on the Laboratory Request Form (Form 49)
The pills, capsules and/or tablets should be sealed in a clear plastic bag or other container that
permits viewing of the evidence so that they can be seen when submitted to the laboratory.
14.2.5.1 Suspected Fentanyl Evidence (Pills, Capsules and Tablets)
Law enforcement agencies have the following options when requesting analysis of pills that are
suspected of containing Fentanyl or a Fentanyl derivative:
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The agency may submit suspected fentanyl evidence following regular laboratory submission
guidelines of two pills per case.
o The evidence must be submitted in clear packaging and double bagged to minimize risk of
exposure.
o The evidence will be clearly labeled as containing “SUSPECTED FENTANYL
DERIVATIVE” or equivalent.
The agency may contact the laboratory and schedule a repackaging of the evidence prior to
submission. This task will be performed by an analyst in the presence of the agency
representative. This will allow the evidence to be prepared for submission in a controlled
environment in a manner that meets our existing guidelines (i.e. two-pill policy).
The agency may submit the suspected fentanyl evidence without regard to the pill submission
guidelines if they determine that the condition of the substance presents an elevated risk to their
safety (disintegrating pills, fine powder, etc.). The following conditions must be met:
o The evidence must be double bagged in plastic.
o The evidence will be clearly labeled as containing “SUSPECTED FENTANYL
DERIVATIVE” or equivalent.
14.2.6 Syringes (With or Without Needles)
Syringes, regardless of whether they have a needle or not, must be individually packaged in a puncture-
resistant container. If the evidence is submitted in improper packaging, the syringe will be returned to
the agency for proper packaging.
14.2.7 Razors and Other Sharp Objects
Razors and other sharp objects should be separated from other evidence that requires analysis and
must be adequately labeled and packaged in such a manner as to protect personnel during handling.
The packaging must be protective enough to ensure no possibility of being injured or punctured.
Commercially manufactured puncture-resistant containers are available for purchase. Contact your
local laboratory for information.
14.2.8 Biohazards
Items removed from a body orifice as well as syringe contents should be labeled with a “BIOHAZARD”
label and the Form 49 should indicate from where the item originated as well as any identification of
known concerns (e.g., “suspect positive for hepatitis C”). Please do not label typical drug submissions as
“biohazard” unless there truly is cause for concern.
14.3 Collection and Packaging
A description (number, color, etc.) of all submitted items must be written on the Laboratory
Request Form (Form 49).
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14.0 DRUG CHEMISTRY
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Drug evidence must be separated from non-evidentiary items prior to submitting evidence for
analysis.
Care should be exercised when packaging more than one exhibit in the same package to prevent
cross contamination.
Evidence that is loose, open, leaking, or has cut corners/unsealed edges must be individually
secured to prevent loss.
If latent prints analysis on the packaging is requested please distinguish the internal agency bags
from the actual evidentiary bags.
The following will not be accepted:
Miscellaneous drug paraphernalia (must separate and submit only items to be analyzed)
Purse with drugs (must separate the drugs from the purse)
Multiple bindles (must include the number of bindles)
14.4 LSD
Suspected LSD should be kept away from direct light. This can be accomplished by storing in dark
packaging or wrapping in foil. Additionally, LSD has a very low dosage activity, so extra care should be
taken to avoid exposure.
14.5 Plants/Wet Evidence
Live plant material and other damp/wet evidence should be dried prior to
submission. This includes marijuana, mushrooms, peyote, or opium poppies.
Fresh plant material, when packaged in airtight containers such as plastic
bags, decays rapidly and can inhibit or possibly eliminate the chance for
detecting a controlled substance. Suspected fresh khat should be frozen
and submitted as soon as possible. Potentially spiked liquids should be
submitted in a timely manner.
14.6 Latent Prints
Drug packaging that needs processing for latent fingerprints should be separated from the drugs when
possible. The evidence for latent fingerprint processing is then submitted separately from the drugs.
14.7 Field Test Kits
When using commercially purchased field test kits, remember that a positive result with the kit only
indicates the possible presence of a drug. There can be other substances that give a similar reaction
(e.g. marijuana resin can turn brown in a test that normally turns orange in the presence of
amphetamines). Generally, the colors of a positive reaction indicated on the test kit are very apparent
and interpretation of the result is usually not necessary.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
14.0 DRUG CHEMISTRY
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The field test kits should be discarded after use. DO NOT submit them to the laboratory. Many of the kits
contain concentrated acids that can leak, creating a chemical hazard and can potentially destroy
evidence or packaging. In addition, drugs subjected to these kits cannot be further analyzed.
Officers should not use field test kits on a residue amount of drug. In cases where quantities are limited,
omit the field test and submit the evidence directly to the laboratory for analysis.
14.8 Clandestine Drug Laboratories
Clandestine Laboratory analysis is only performed in the Central Point and Portland Metro Laboratories
and should be hand delivered by the agency when submitting. When it comes time to return the
evidence all agencies will be required to pick up the evidence in person. Due to the nature of the
samples the Oregon State Police Forensic Services division is not allowed to ship this type of evidence
via a common carrier. Once the analysis is complete the agency will be notified to schedule a pickup
time.
Clandestine drug laboratories range from crude makeshift operations to sophisticated and technologically
complex facilities. They can be set up anywhere and are often found in private residences, hotel and
motel rooms, trailers, barns and outbuildings, and commercial buildings. At these locations sophisticated
surveillance equipment and booby-traps may be set up to deter intruders and law enforcement personnel
from entering.
There are usually two situations when a clandestine laboratory is encountered. The first is when police or
fire agency personnel encounter a previously unknown lab. When this occurs the personnel should
secure the scene, allow no unauthorized or unnecessary entry, and contact the local specialized unit or
trained personnel to process clandestine laboratories.
When clandestine drug laboratory chemicals are detected during a vehicle stop, treat the site as a crime
scene. Contact the local law enforcement unit trained to handle this situation for assistance.
The second situation would involve prior knowledge by the local law enforcement agency of the illegal
activity. A raid is planned and personnel needed for the proper shut down and dismantling of the
laboratory have been contacted.
14.8.1 Types of Clandestine Drug Labs
Although methamphetamine is by far the most commonly encountered clandestinely manufactured drug
in Oregon, the OSP clan lab analysts are prepared to analyze samples from other types of manufacture.
These include but are not limited to amphetamine, methcathinone, MDMA & related compounds, and
other compounds in the phenethylamine, tryptamine and piperidine classes.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
14.0 DRUG CHEMISTRY
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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14.8.2 Collection of Clandestine Drug Lab Samples
Extreme care and caution should be exercised whenever investigating or processing a clandestine drug
lab site. The chemicals and substances used in the manufacturing process can be caustic, explosive,
carcinogenic, poisonous, irritating, and/or flammable. Personnel participating in clandestine drug
laboratory investigations should have specialized training in the use of protective equipment and the
appropriate health and safety procedures.
Clandestine laboratory samples and reagents include highly corrosive acids, caustic bases, volatile
respiratory irritants, flammable liquids and many other dangerous substances. The appropriate use of
personal protection equipment is strongly recommended. In addition, samples must be packaged in a
safe manner for long term storage and transport.
The processing of clandestine drug laboratories also involves the sampling, removal, and proper disposal
of hazardous toxic chemicals. For forensic purposes, representative samples of all substances that
could be used for the synthesis of a controlled substance should be submitted to the lab. In the case of
multi-layer liquids, be sure the submitted sample contains sufficient material from both layers. Alternately,
layers may be submitted in separate containers, but be sure to appropriately label which container is the
top/bottom layer. Such information can be extremely important to the analyst.
In addition, photographs of the scene depicting any glassware along with any officer’s report should also
be submitted. If at any time the investigating personnel have questions about what should be sampled
on scene, it is encouraged that they contact their local forensic laboratory for assistance. The
transportation and disposal of all chemicals at the scene is regulated by state and federal environmental
protection agencies and as such, any questions regarding disposal procedure should be directed to
them.
14.9 Methamphetamine Quantification
Quantitative analysis on solid dose methamphetamine requires a separate request, by a federal attorney,
and is conducted when cases are being prosecuted at the federal level.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
15.0 ANONYMOUS ANALYSIS PROGRAM OF SUSPECTED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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15.0 ANONYMOUS ANALYSIS PROGRAM OF SUSPECTED CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
The Oregon State Police Anonymous Analysis Program was established to assist parents/guardians in
the event they should find suspected drugs or other drug paraphernalia in their minor’s possession.
Anonymous Analysis is not performed at the request of employers.
15.1 Submission of Substances for Anonymous Analysis
Suspected drugs/paraphernalia can be submitted for controlled substance analysis by delivering the
item(s) to any local law enforcement agency or participating Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory.
Samples submitted as part of the OSP Forensic Services Division's Anonymous Analysis Program will
not be used for criminal or civil charges and are not considered evidence.
Anonymous Analysis cases will be worked in a timely manner and will be dependent on staff availability
and caseloads. The findings will be reported verbally to the submitting agency or individual making the
request.
The report posted in LOIS will be titled Anonymous Analysis and will indicate the following: “The results
of anonymous analysis requests are reported verbally to the customer. Please contact the
agency/customer directly if you require information regarding this request.”
Anonymous Analysis samples will be destroyed by following the Division’s Policy for the destruction of a
controlled substance.
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16.0 TOXICOLOGY
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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16.0 TOXICOLOGY
During investigations when there is cause to believe that an individual may have been under the
influence of alcohol and/or drugs, efforts should be made to obtain blood and/or urine for toxicological
analysis.
16.1 Type of Sample
Alcohol - In cases where it is necessary to determine the level and effect of alcohol on the individual,
blood is the specimen of choice. Urine may be tested for the presence of alcohol, however it is not a
legally recognized testing medium for blood alcohol determinations and therefore a percentage of alcohol
will not be reported.
Drugs - In cases where the use of controlled substances or other drugs is in question, urine is the
specimen of choice.
The laboratory is also able to determine the alcohol concentration of unknown liquid samples.
Many drugs leave the blood very rapidly and may be difficult or impossible to detect unless the blood is
collected expeditiously. Generally, drugs are present in the urine in greater abundance than in blood,
and are therefore more readily detected. When there is a question as to which medium is best, collect
both blood and urine.
The Forensic Services Division is not able to test blood for the presence of drugs other than alcohol at
this time. If blood-drug analysis is required, the laboratory may be able to assist you in locating an
outside laboratory that is able to perform the work.
16.2 Triaging
If both urine and blood are submitted, the laboratory will test the blood for alcohol and the urine for drugs.
Cases that have pending criminal charges are prioritized higher than those that do not have pending
charges.
16.3 Blood Alcohol
16.3.1 Collection, Packaging, and Storage
At least 4 milliliters of blood should be collected in a commercially available gray-top tube that contains
sodium fluoride and potassium oxalate or EDTA. Ideally, two 10 milliliter tubes will be collected at the
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
16.0 TOXICOLOGY
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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same time. Normally, the analyst will test one and leave the other unopened so it is available for
additional testing if desired.
When gray-stoppered tubes are not available, other types of blood samples may be submitted (serum or
plasma samples or tubes with other-colored stoppers).
The Forensic Services Division does not recommend the collection of multiple sequential blood draws.
Testimony given at the time of trial will be the same whether there is one blood draw or several.
Blood Alcohol Specimen Kits can be purchased for packaging and securing the blood tube. To order kits
go to the following link: http://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/Pages/KitOrders.aspx
A specimen labeling system must be employed which assures unequivocal matching of the specimen
with the person from whom it was collected. The tube(s) should be labeled with the individual’s name,
date, and time of the blood draw. If two or more Vacutainer tubes are collected consecutively during the
same blood draw, they should be labeled with the same time.
Do not place evidence tape or other seals over the stopper of the vial, as the tape can obstruct the
information on the vial label, and can interfere with resealing of the tube. Instead, the packaging
containing the blood tube(s) should be securely sealed with evidence tape.
Care must be taken to maintain proper chain of custody. Blood should be submitted to the laboratory as
soon as reasonably possible, and should be refrigerated during any delay in submission. Blood
evidence returned to the submitting agency should be stored under refrigeration.
16.4 Urine
Only qualitative analysis (identification of drugs) is performed on urine specimens. Quantitation of a drug
in a urine sample is not performed because urine drug concentrations cannot be correlated to a
concentration of the drug in blood or to impairment. It should be noted that the mere presence of a drug
in the urine cannot, by itself, support a determination that the subject was under the influence of the drug
at a particular time. Likewise, the laboratory may be unable to detect drugs that are actively impairing a
person due to limitations of the analytical methods or because the drug has not yet been metabolized to
reach a sufficient concentration in the urine.
If a Drug Recognition Evaluation (DRE) has been completed, please include a copy of the DRE face
sheet when submitting the evidence to the Laboratory.
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16.0 TOXICOLOGY
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If drug use is known or if the suspect has offered statements regarding drug use, it is recommended to
include that on the request form. Detection of some drugs (see below) requires specialized analytical
techniques beyond the routine analysis and it is useful for the analyst to know about those in advance of
testing.
16.4.1 Drugs Tested in Routine Toxicological Analysis
All urine samples generally undergo screening by EMIT (Enzyme Multiplied Immunoassay Technique)
and confirmation by Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (GC/MS) and/or Liquid Chromatograph-
Quadrupole/Time-of-Flight (LC-QTOF). The analyst looks for the following types of drugs in a routine
toxicology analysis:
Opiates/Narcotic analgesics (e.g. morphine, Vicodin, codeine, etc.)
Amphetamines/Stimulants (e.g. amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA, etc.)
Barbiturates (e.g. butalbital, phenobarbital, etc.),
Benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium, Klonopin, etc.)
Marijuana metabolite
Cocaine and its metabolites
Methadone
Other prescription drugs (e.g. Prozac, Soma, Ambien, etc.)
Other potentially impairing over the counter drugs (antihistamines,
dextromethorphan, etc.)
The laboratory is currently unable to test for inhalants (e.g. paint thinner, “Dust Off,” etc.).
If synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. “K2” or “Spice”), fentanyl derivatives, psilocin, or LSD are suspected, it is
important to include that information on the request form. If any of these types of drugs is suspected, it is
recommended to also collect a blood sample, store it in a cool, dark place, and contact the laboratory for
help in locating a lab to analyze the sample.
If you suspect that lorazepam (Ativan), psilocin (mushrooms), or a date rape drug (e.g. GHB, etc.), was
used, this should be specifically noted on the Forensic Services Request (Form 49). These drugs may
not be detected in a routine toxicology analysis, and notice ensures that specialized detection methods
can be utilized if necessary.
16.4.2 Collection, Packaging, and Storage
Urine Collection Kits are provided by the Oregon State Police and should be available at all Intoxilyzer
locations. To order these kits go to the following link:
http://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/Pages/KitOrders.aspx
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16.0 TOXICOLOGY
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Urine samples should be collected in the plastic screw-top container provided in the kit. Be sure the lid is
tightly secured and label the container with the following information:
The individual’s name (not just initials)
The date of collection
The time of collection
If there is a reason to suspect tampering, try to obtain another sample from the subject, and send both
samples to the laboratory.
Do not place evidence tape over the lid of the container, as this can obstruct the information on the label
and interfere with reclosing. Secure the urine cup in the plastic bag provided. It should be noted that
urine that leaks into the plastic bag will not be analyzed. The packaging containing the urine specimen
should be securely sealed.
Care must be taken to maintain proper chain of custody. Urine should be submitted to the laboratory as
soon as reasonably possible, and should be refrigerated during any delay in submission. Urine evidence
returned to the submitting agency should be stored in a secure freezer or in a refrigerator if freezer space
is limited.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
17.0 FIREARMS EVIDENCE
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17.0 FIREARMS EVIDENCE
Firearm examinations compare marks or impressions which result when two objects make contact with
each other. These resulting impressions are characteristic of the “tool”, which is usually the harder of the
two objects. When a bullet, which is composed of relatively soft metals, travels through the harder barrel
of a firearm the barrel leaves markings on the bullet. These markings are unique and can often be
associated with a specific firearm. Fired cartridge cases can also be identified to a firearm in a similar
manner.
Some examples of analysis of physical evidence by Firearm Examiners include:
Determining functionality/operability of a firearm.
Determining if a firearm has been altered/modified into a machine gun.
Determining the presence/functionality of a sound suppressor.
Generating a list of possible firearm(s) based on the class characteristics found on fired bullets
and/or cartridge cases.
Comparison of bullets, cartridge cases, or fired shot shells to determine if they were fired in a
particular firearm.
Serial number restorations.
Determination of distance from muzzle to target proximity based upon gunshot residues and/or
shot patterns.
Manufacturer and type of ammunition.
Examinations and conclusions regarding the identification of gunpowder.
For Trajectory analysis refer to the Crime Scene section in this manual.
17.1 Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS)
IBIS is a system that captures and compares images of known test-fires and unknown fired cartridge
cases. These images are searched against a database. When similarities are observed a notification
report will be sent to the agency about the potential for links to other cases within the database. If the
agency requires a physical confirmation for a search warrant, court, etc. the agency must notify the lab
and resubmit the evidence for comparisons. All firearms on the IBIS eligible list are automatically
entered at into IBIS, regardless of whether the examination is requested.
To request entry of evidence into IBIS, contact your local Forensic Laboratory for information on how to
submit. Firearms eligible for IBIS entry generally include the following:
Centerfire and rimfire semiautomatic pistols
7.62x39mm, 5.56x45mm/223 REM, and 22 LR caliber semiautomatic rifles
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
17.0 FIREARMS EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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17.2 Collection and Packaging of Firearms Evidence
The primary concerns when packaging firearms are safety and the preservation of the evidence including
blood, trace evidence, and latent prints that may be present.
When submitting loose cartridges, cartridge cases, bullets, fired bullets, waddings, shell, etc.,
the number of each type needs to be included on the Form 49. Refer to Appendix B for
photos and firearms terminology.
Never insert anything into the barrel of a firearm.
Minimize handling because it is possible to recover latent prints from firearms and
ammunition.
Do not remove cartridges from magazines when latent prints will be requested; however, do
remove the magazine. Ensure magazines and recovered ammunition are both submitted with
the firearm. The submission of ammunition used with the firearm is essential to give accurate
results in muzzle-to-target proximity test. When latent prints is not needed, remove the
cartridges from the magazine to obtain a count for the Form 49.
Absent special circumstances, recovered firearms and ammunition components should not be
physically marked in any manner (see exception listed below). Label the packaging instead.
Mark the position of the cylinder on both sides of the top strap before opening the cylinder of
a revolver and make note of the position of fired and unfired cartridges in the cylinder. This is
so the position of the cylinder, as recovered, can be determined after the cylinder is opened.
Figure 5: Example of how to note the positions of
cartridges and cartridge cases in the cylinder of a
revolver.
1 Rem 38 Spl (fired)
2 W-W 38 Spl (fired)
3 F-C 38 Spl (unfired)
4 F-C 38 Spl (unfired)
5 W-W 38 Spl (unfired)
6 W-W 38 Spl (unfired)
Under Hammer
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
17.0 FIREARMS EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Store and transport firearms unloaded and rendered safe. If unable to do so, hand-deliver the
firearm to the laboratory and inform lab personnel immediately of the firearm’s condition.
Any evidence with possible blood or body fluids should be air-dried, then packaged in paper
bags, envelopes, or cardboard boxes labeled as containing a biohazard. It is preferred that a
“BIOHAZARD” label is attached.
For firearms recovered from bodies of water, submit the firearm in a container that will keep it
submerged in the water it was recovered from. Do not dry the firearm out prior to submitting
to the lab.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
18.0 SERIAL NUMBER RESTORATION
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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18.0 SERIAL NUMBER RESTORATION
The obliteration of serial numbers and manufacturer’s marks is often done to prevent tracing ownership
of articles. The laboratory uses mechanical and chemical processes that may restore the original
marking in whole or part. Firearms, bicycles, motorcycles, chainsaws, boats, and cameras are all
evidence items where serial numbers have been restored.
18.1 Collection and Packaging of Evidence
Package the evidence in a manner that will protect the area where the serial number has been
obliterated. Contact the laboratory prior to delivering large items.
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19.0 TOOL MARK EVIDENCE
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19.0 TOOL MARK EVIDENCE
Tool marks are impressions or marks produced when a tool comes into contact with an object; the tool is
generally the harder of the two objects. Physical contact between a tool and the surface of an object
produces marks not only characteristic of the type of tool used, but marks that may be unique to a single
tool.
In the absence of a suspect tool, tool mark impressions can be examined in an attempt to determine the
type of tool(s) that may have produced them. Examples of tools that may be encountered include:
hammers, screwdrivers, pry bars, knives, bolt cutters, pliers, tin snips, pipe wrenches, axes, and
hatchets.
Do not attempt to determine if a found tool fits in the tool mark. This may alter or obliterate the tool mark
and trace evidence may be lost or added.
19.1 Collection and Packaging of Evidence
The recovered tool should be carefully packaged to prevent the prying blade or cutting edges from
having contact with any other objects that may cause an alteration of the tool.
Send the whole object containing the tool marks to the laboratory. If this is not possible, photograph the
tool mark, then cut out the area with the tool mark or make a cast of the mark. Information about casting
material that is appropriate for tool marks may be obtained by contacting the laboratory.
Mark the cast or cut object with appropriate information indicating its orientation such as up/down,
inside/outside, and left/right directions. Package the object containing the tool mark in such a manner as
to prevent alteration or damage during shipment and storage.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
20.0 GUNPOWDER AND SHOT/PELLET PATTERNS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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20.0 GUNPOWDER AND SHOT/PELLET PATTERNS
When ammunition is fired, a mixture of partially burned\unburned gunpowder, and vaporized primer
compounds are expelled out of the firearm’s muzzle, in addition to the bullet, shot pellets and wad(s).
Examination of the evidence may reveal the following:
Proximity, which is the distance from muzzle to target determined by gunshot residue and/or shot
pellet patterns
Ammunition type
Ammunition manufacturer
Firearm condition
Bullet or pellet entry angle
Stippling or sooting around the entrance
20.1 Collection of Gunpowder Evidence
Submit the clothing or other object(s) that may have gunshot residue or bullet/pellet holes. Carefully
handle and package the evidence to avoid losing deposited gunpowder and/or other residue(s).
If possible, collect and submit ammunition of the same type used in the crime (e.g., ammunition from the
firearm’s magazine, unused ammunition from a box at the scene, etc.)
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
21.0 ARSON AND FIRE DEBRIS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
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21.0 ARSON AND FIRE DEBRIS
Many times it is difficult to ascertain whether a fire was accidental or arson. Flammable liquids readily
evaporate and thus arson evidence should be collected and packaged in an air tight container to prevent
loss by evaporation and possible contamination. Moisture is not a problem; do not dry arson evidence.
An arson investigator should be contacted with specific questions regarding the type of scene being
worked, what evidence collection is appropriate, and how to package/preserve evidence for submission
to the laboratory.
21.1 Arson Scene Indicators
Multiple fires in unrelated areas of the fire scene
Odor of petroleum products, paint solvents, alcohol, etc.
Stains on floor or other material
Evidence of explosions not due to heat (shattered glass)
Rapid spread of fire not explainable by structure, weather, or other conditions
Smoke not explainable by building materials
Fire trails such as cloth or paper trails, burn trails on carpeting, or deep charring in hardwood
Removal of household property and valuable items
Evidence of another crime which the fire might conceal (items stolen, evidence of violence)
Recent similar fires in the vicinity
21.2 Collection of Evidence
Charred debris and related material from the origin where the accelerant was placed
Igniting devices (fuses, rags, candles, etc.) including mechanical and electrical devices
Samples of upholstery, drywall, plaster, wood, or other material that may have been penetrated
by flammable liquids
Samples of soil that may have been penetrated by flammable liquids (freezing these samples
prevents degradation that can hamper analysis)
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
21.0 ARSON AND FIRE DEBRIS
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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Trace evidence possibly left by the arsonist such as hairs, broken glass, tool marks, shoe
impressions, clothing fibers, matches, etc.
Suspect clothing worn at time of crime, including shoes (nylon fire debris bags are the preferred
packaging for clothing items. Paper bags should be avoided as they allow potential evidence to
evaporate.
Liquids containing possible accelerants (for comparison to unknown samples) and containers that
may have been used to transport them
Comparison sample - a sample of uncontaminated carpeting and/or padding, drywall, wood, etc.
should be collected and packaged separately
Material used as a wick (shirt, sock, towel, etc.) from an incendiary device. This material may be
analyzed for DNA comparisons.
Control samples – new, unused gauze, bags, swabs, etc.
21.3 Packaging of Evidence
Use airtight containers. Unused, clean metal paint cans are preferred. Lined or unlined cans
work equally as well, but the lined cans will not rust through over time. Heat sealed bags
specifically manufactured for flammable evidence collection may also be used. When these bags
are used, submit an unused bag as a control. Contact the laboratory for information on where to
purchase these packaging supplies.
Do not use paper bags (these allow volatile liquids to escape)
Do not put gloves (used by the investigator while collecting evidence) in the container with the
evidence. Throw them away.
Gauze pads can be used to soak up or collect residual liquid. Do not use cotton swabs, as they
do not collect enough material to test effectively. Using swabs to collect ignitable liquid residues
does not equate to collecting blood or biological material.
Seal each collected item separately and securely.
Mark all containers with appropriate identifiers.
Document locations from which evidence samples were collected by notes, sketches, and/or
photographs.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
22.0 EXPLOSIVES
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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22.0 EXPLOSIVES
The Forensic Services Division accepts limited amounts of bulk explosives (less than 1 oz.) and post-
blast residues for laboratory analysis. A wide variety of chemicals and energetic materials may be
encountered in an explosives investigation scene. Analysis of some of these materials may be beyond
the capability of the OSP Forensics Services Division. It is recommended your agency consults with an
Explosives Analyst in the Portland Forensic Laboratory at (971) 673-8230 before collection and
submission of any evidence for Explosives analysis. Evidence from a post-blast explosives scene should
be collected by individual with specialized training. It is recommended that you call ATF or your agency’s
bomb squad for the contact information.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
23.0 GLASS EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
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23.0 GLASS EVIDENCE
Glass is one of the more important types of physical evidence that is commonly overlooked. Glass is
frequently encountered in burglaries and hit and run cases, and glass fragments may be found adhering
to garments, hair, embedded in shoe soles, or may be transferred to other property belonging to the
victims and suspects.
Glass evidence cannot be individualized to a single source, however, there are some instances where
two fragments can be physically matched together and a common origin can be conclusively established.
Glass examinations may demonstrate the following:
The presence and number of glass particles recovered from clothing or other surfaces.
Whether or not fragments of recovered evidence glass are similar to glass from a known source
of broken glass
The type of glass found (e.g., tempered glass, container glass, etc.)
The direction of force (from inside or outside) used to break a window
The order of shots fired into a window or windshield
Consider that large glass pieces may have latent fingerprints present and the broken edges of glass may
have other trace evidence present such as blood, hair, traces of bullets, or snagged fibers.
23.1 Collection and Packaging of Glass Standards
A comparison of evidence glass to a possible source requires the submission of glass standards. A
separate glass standard should be submitted for each broken glass item at the scene. For each glass
standard, submit at least ten fragments of broken glass from that item. These fragments should
represent the entire broken area of the item (i.e. taken from different areas of the broken item, if possible)
since physical properties may vary even within a single glass object.
For window glass standards, collect the glass that is still adhering to the window frame whenever
possible. Collecting glass standards from the ground increases the likelihood of introducing contaminant
glass into the standard. A second comparison standard may be collected from the ground and submitted
separately.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
23.0 GLASS EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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Some structural glass may be double paned, meaning that two different panes of glass are present. A
standard should be collected from multiple areas on each glass pane. Package the standards from each
pane separately, if possible.
Vehicle windshields are double-paned with a polymer sheet between them. To collect a windshield
standard, cut out a square (2”x2”) of the double-thickness windshield from the center area of the
windshield. Mark the interior (IN) and exterior (EX) sides with a permanent marker. Repeat by cutting out
and marking a second square near the driver’s or passenger’s side edge of the windshield. Both squares
can go into the same bag.
Submit glass evidence in packaging that reduces the chance for further breakage.
23.2 Collection and Packaging of Recovered Glass Evidence
Package glass pieces from different locations into different containers, clearly marking the outside
packaging as to the location and description of the evidence.
Collect and submit all glass pieces if you believe numerous glass pieces were from the same
object (e.g. a window, a bottle, vehicle headlights, etc.) and request the laboratory to attempt a
physical match.
Label large glass pieces with orienting marks (e.g. up/down, inside/outside) when applicable.
Collect and package a large glass piece in a rigid container such as a cardboard box. Protect the
broken or fractured edges of the glass from any additional damage or breakage.
Depending on the size, small glass pieces can be packaged in envelopes, bags, paperfolds, or on
Post-It notes. For very small glass particles, place the particle onto the adhesive of a Post-It note
and use a pen to circle around it. Fold the note in half, covering the glass particles, and then put
the labeled folded Post-It note in a paper envelope. See Appendix A for paperfold instructions.
Tape over any holes in the packaging through which small glass particles could be lost.
Glass pieces that are slightly bigger can be packaged in envelopes or bags, and then secured in
a padded envelope to protect from further breakage or injury to those handling the evidence.
23.3 Clothing Items and Hair Combings
An individual who breaks a window with force or who is in contact with or nearby a breaking glass object
may have very small particles of glass on his/her clothing and hair.
Collect clothing items, taking care not to shake or handle the clothing more than necessary. Doing so
may dislodge these small glass particles. If the clothing is not stained with biological material (e.g. blood),
package in a paper bag carefully sealing all possible openings. If the clothing is stained with biological
material, allow the clothing to air-dry on a clean, dry surface and package in a paper bag. If this is not
possible, collect and submit to the lab ASAP.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
23.0 GLASS EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
Revision Effective Date:
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To collect glass particles from hair, have the person stand or lean over a large clean sheet of
examination or butcher paper. Using a new comb, comb the hair to dislodge any particles so that they
will fall onto the paper. Fold the paper to enclose any debris from the hair and tape closed.
23.4 Vacuum Sweepings / Large Objects
In some cases, it is useful to screen large objects such as carpets, car mats/vehicle flooring, or
backpacks for glass particles. The entire object may be submitted, or a vacuum sweeping may be made
of these objects. Adhesive lifts are not recommended for collection of glass evidence from these
surfaces, as the lifts too quickly become saturated and lose the ability to pick up any glass present.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
24.0 PAINT EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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24.0 PAINT EVIDENCE
Paints are used as surface coatings for a variety of surfaces such as vehicles, structures, safes, and
appliances. Many crimes, such as burglaries, hit and run vehicle investigations, and others involve
forceful activities that can result in the transfer of paint from the original source to another place, person,
or object. Paint transfer may also occur if wet paint is applied in the commission of a crime.
Paint evidence may be transferred from one object to another from contact or loose paint chips may be
collected at the crime scene for later comparison with a suspected source. Paint chips may also fracture
in such a way that a conclusive physical match can be made between the loose chips and the object they
came from.
Paints contain a multitude of components, many of which may be detected in very small samples such as
those encountered as evidence. Analysis and comparison of paint samples can be successful even when
they are extremely small in size.
Paint examinations can determine:
Whether evidence paint sample(s) are similar to a paint standard
The type of paint (vehicle, architectural, etc.)
Lists of possible make and model of a vehicle by using the Paint Data Query (PDQ) database
If a physical matches exists between paint coatings on two pieces of an object that was at one
time joined
24.1 Collecting and Packaging Paint Evidence
Paint comparison standards from a known object are required when the laboratory is required to perform
a paint comparison. Paint comparisons are performed on a variety of paint types including vehicle paints,
architectural paints, spray paints, cosmetic lacquers, etc.
A potential paint source may have one or more different kinds and colors of paint that are present (e.g.
vehicles), and the differences may only be apparent using microscopic or instrumental techniques.
Because of this, it is important to obtain paint standards that adequately represent all of the paint types
present on a potential source. If multiple body panels of a vehicle show damage, a paint standard
should be collected from each.
If paint transfer is loosely adhering to a surface, place a loose paper cover or Post-it note over the area
to protect it during packaging and transport. Do not place tape directly onto an area of paint transfer.
Tape adhesive can contaminate paint evidence.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
24.0 PAINT EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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24.1.1 Procedures:
Small Items (Easily Transported)
If an item that is a potential source or recipient of paint transfer is small enough to be easily packaged
and transported, then it should be submitted in its entirety (e.g. tools, keys, knives, spray paint cans,
etc.). Paint chips should be folded inside a paperfold or a Post-it-type note and then into a larger
envelope for submission. See Appendix A for paperfold instructions.
Large Items (Not Easily Transported)
If the potential paint source or paint transfer is on a large object or one not easily transported, such as a
vehicle part or a door from a residence, use the following method for sample collection:
1. Locate the area of damage. If paint transfer from one object to another is suspected, collect both
the area of suspected paint transfer and a nearby area of a paint standard that shows no paint
transfer. Collect a standard from an area as close to the point of damage as possible; on
vehicles, they should be from the same body part (i.e. hood, right front quarter panel, driver’s
door, etc.).
2. When contact between two painted surfaces is suspected, the possibility of cross-transfers must
be considered. Collect both objects, or collect areas showing paint transfer and standards from
both surfaces.
3. If broken paint edges are present, care should be taken to collect as much of the damaged edge
material as possible. The potential for a physical match may exist.
4. Use a clean razor blade, scalpel, or sharp knife to gently pry, carve, or chip the paint from the
surface down to the foundation or substrate.
5. Always clean collection tools between each use to avoid cross-contamination of one sample with
another.
6. Collect a total of about a nickel-sized amount of paint from each damaged area, when possible.
7. Place each paint sample into a paper fold or small paper envelope. Securely seal all possible
openings in the packaging, including seams and corners if necessary.
8. Securely seal and label the package(s) with a description of where the sample came from.
9. Continue to collect paint from each damaged area in the same manner, even if the object
appears uniformly painted. Also collect any samples that are visually different. Package and label
each area separately.
10. Paperwork should clearly document the locations of collection of any paint evidence to be
submitted to the laboratory.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
24.0 PAINT EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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CAUTIONS
o Do not package paint standards in the same envelope as recovered paint evidence. This
could allow cross contamination to occur.
o Do not collect paint evidence on tape. The adhesive from the tape may interfere with
instrumental analysis of the paint. Post-it-type adhesive notes are acceptable.
o Substantial variations in thickness and layer sequences over short distances can exist
across a painted surface. This is particularly true in architectural paint and for vehicle paint
where curves, corners, and edges are often impact points and may have been subjected
to previous damage, sanding, or over-painting. Known paint samples should be collected
from these areas, when recognized.
o Do not use plastic bags (including evidence bags) that have small holes in them. Such
bags are manufactured to allow excess air out; however, they are not appropriate for trace
evidence collection as small particles may be lost.
o Be aware that when a vehicle’s clear topcoat of paint is abraded, it may appear white to
the naked eye.
o When observing road debris, be on the lookout for paint chips and plastic parts that may
form a physical match with a damaged vehicle. Collect these items now for later
comparison to a suspect vehicle.
Micro-droplets of spray-paint on fibers of a
sleeve cuff
Layers of original and aftermarket paint from a
vehicle
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
24.0 PAINT EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
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B
A physical match of two paint chips. Paint chip “A”
was recovered from the scene of a hit-and-run;
paint chip “B” was collected from the damaged
area of a suspect vehicle. Note the microscopic
scratches in the paint extending across the break.
Physical match of duct tape pieces. The lower piece
was recovered from the suspect’s possession; the
upper pieces were recovered from the crime scene.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
25.0 PLASTIC AND TAPE EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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25.0 PLASTIC AND TAPE EVIDENCE
Plastics are composed of polymers that are manufactured into a variety of different objects. Plastic
evidence that may be encountered includes broken vehicle reflectors, smears on clothing, and small
pieces of plastic from tapes and garbage bags.
Laboratory examination may be able to determine the type of plastic and whether or not it is similar to a
suspected source. For large, rigid plastic pieces (e.g. broken reflectors), the laboratory can attempt a
physical match.
Plastic fusion marks might be present on an individual’s clothing as a result of a high-energy impact with
a plastic component of a vehicle interior. Because a variety of different plastics may be present on the
interior of the same vehicle, it may be possible to establish the position of the individual within the vehicle
by comparing the plastic fusion mark to standards from the vehicle interior. Remember that a high-
energy impact can cause a plastic component in a vehicle interior to have fibers or a fabric impression
from the clothing, as well.
25.1 Collection of Plastic Evidence
Large, rigid plastic pieces may be collected and packaged into paper envelopes or bags, plastic bags, or
cardboard boxes.
Small pieces of pliable plastic evidence (e.g. tape pieces, piece of garbage bag, etc.) should be placed
into a paper envelope. Tape pieces that are adhesive should be affixed to a clear plastic sheet, not to a
piece of paper, prior to packaging.
Clothing with possible plastic fusion marks should be packaged separately into paper bags.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
26.0 MISCELLANEOUS TRACE EVIDENCE (INCLUDING POISONS)
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
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26.0 MISCELLANEOUS TRACE EVIDENCE (INCLUDING POISONS)
A number of forensic examinations do not fall neatly into one of the other laboratory categories. These
are assigned to Trace Miscellaneous. The most common types include analysis of food for suspected
poisons and of cosmetics and household products for harmful tampering.
It is extremely helpful to the examiner to receive a complete police report that details the suspected
poison or adulterant and any symptoms of the person(s) exposed. If the type of chemical is unknown,
the examiner will perform general screening tests that will include, as appropriate, controlled substances,
heavy metals, volatiles, and some pesticides/organics. It is not possible to screen evidence for every
possible poisonous substance.
In addition to the item in question, the lab may request the submission of a control sample. For instance,
were you to suspect that a beverage had been contaminated with antifreeze, you would submit the
beverage in question, plus an untainted sample of the same beverage. If a sample of the contaminant is
available, it should also be submitted.
Miscellaneous Trace examination also includes the general chemical identification of unknown solids,
inhalants, liquids and gases, measurement of physical, chemical or elemental properties, and the
comparison of contents to product labeling. Again, case details should be submitted with the evidence in
order that the analysis can proceed efficiently.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
27.0 FIBER EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
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27.0 FIBER EVIDENCE
Textile fibers can be exchanged between individuals, between individuals and objects and between
objects. When fibers are associated with a possible source, such as fabric from the victim, suspect or
scene, it can help corroborate case information and/or provide a potential link between items, persons,
and/or places.
A fiber that is transferred and detected is also dependent on the nature and duration of the contact
between the suspect and the victim and/or scene or object and the persistence of the fibers after they
have been transferred.
Research has shown that with few exceptions, the largest quantity of fibers on an object is from the last
object to be in contact with it. Therefore, it is advantageous to consider collecting fiber evidence prior to
processing for other types of evidence. Caution should be used to prevent cross contamination of
evidence collected for fiber examinations, particularly when crime scene personnel will also be
responsible for collecting suspect or victim clothing items or for the processing of related scenes or
vehicles. Caution should also be used to not add fibers from your own environment and clothing to the
evidence (e.g. fleece coat, wool sweater).
Fiber examinations involve a comparison of samples from known and questioned sources to determine
whether they are consistent with having originated from the same source (e.g., carpet from a suspect’s
car compared with fibers removed from the victim’s clothing). Laboratory analysts examine various
physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of fibers when performing a comparison between
evidence fibers and a potential source. Common conclusions include statements regarding the similarity
or dissimilarity of the evidence fiber(s) to the possible source or standard. This comparison involves the
recognition and evaluation of class characteristics, which associate materials to a group, but never to a
single source. Conversely, individual characteristics allow the association between two or more items
with each other to the exclusion of all other items. For fiber examiners, this most often occurs when
pieces of fabric or cordage are physically matched, but rarely otherwise due to the mass production of
textiles in society.
Determining whether a textile has been cut, torn, or otherwise damaged may be a probative question for
a piece of evidence. It may be possible to distinguish the type of damage depending on the object used,
the textile type, and other factors.
27.1 Fiber Examinations
The following may be determined from fiber examinations:
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
27.0 FIBER EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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The type of fiber (e.g. natural or synthetic, animal fiber, glass fiber, etc.)
The possible product uses for the fiber (e.g. carpet fiber, clothing fiber, etc.)
The degree of similarity between evidence fiber(s) and a fiber source
Whether a textile has been cut, torn, or otherwise damaged and if a particular object could have
been used to create the defect
27.2 Collection of Fiber Evidence
Fiber evidence can be collected in a number of ways. Refer to “Fiber Collection Methods” table.
Fiber Collection Methods
Method
Description
Packaging
When to Use
Adhesive
lifts*
Use an adhesive sheet, fingerprint
tape, cellophane tape, or other
clear adhesive substrate and pat
over the item. Take care not to
miss any areas or allow the tape
to become “overloaded.” Post-It
notes may also be used for small
areas.
Stick adhesive tapes
onto a clear,
colorless plastic
sheet (e.g.
transparency film).
Place into a paper
envelope or bag.
Fold Post-It notes in
half and place into a
paper envelope.
For fibers you cannot
see, or to be sure you
have not missed any.
Good on car seats, feet
of dumped bodies,
surfaces of clothing,
and other medium to
large surfaces.
“Pick”
method
Using tweezers or gloved fingers ,
carefully retrieve the fiber taking
care not to pinch, crush, or stretch
it.
Place the fiber into a
paper fold, in a folded
Post-It note, or paper
envelope.
For fibers you can see.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
27.0 FIBER EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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Vacuum
sweepings
Use a portable vacuum cleaner
equipped with special traps
holding a piece of filter paper.
Lightly vacuum the surface of
interest. The goal is to collect fiber
evidence that is on the surface of
the object, not to clean it. Take
care not to overload to ensure the
filter paper doesn’t lift allowing
material to pass into the vacuum.
Carefully remove the
filter trap, cover with
the lid or cap, and
package in a paper
or plastic bag.
For fibers you cannot
see, or to be sure you
have not missed any.
Good on car seats,
sections of carpeting,
and other large
surfaces.
* Gridded template for adhesive lifts can be found HERE
Cautions
Care should be taken to store adhesive lifting materials in such a way that they will not become
contaminated prior to use
Use of tools, such as forceps and tweezers, may cause damage to the trace evidence.
Clean any collection tools thoroughly between samples to prevent cross-contamination.
Avoid serrated tools as they may be more difficult to clean thoroughly.
27.3 Collection of Fiber Standards
A fiber standard (or a possible source) is required when the laboratory is requested to perform a fiber
comparison. If the possible source can be packaged and transported to the laboratory with ease, submit
the entire object (e.g., clothing items, throw rugs, etc.).
If the fiber source is believed to be from a large object or one not easily transported, such as car
upholstery or carpeting from a dwelling or vehicle, cut representative samples from various areas. Be
sure to collect samples from areas that are visually different (e.g. different colored areas, faded areas
due to sunlight, worn sections, etc.). Samples should be about 1x1 inch unless you see variations in the
item that would warrant a larger sample cutting.
Package the garment, object, or sample cuttings in paper envelopes or bags and clearly label with a
description of from where the standard came.
Do not package standards with evidence fibers, or allow them to be near or in contact with each other.
This could allow cross contamination to occur.
Adhesive lifts are NOT acceptable for collection of standards.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
27.0 FIBER EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
Version #10
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27.4 Fabric Damage
If it is necessary to determine if textile defects are the result of a cut or puncture by a particular item, the
item suspected of creating the defect (e.g. knife, scissors, screwdriver, etc.) should also be submitted.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
28.0 PHYSICAL MATCH
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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28.0 PHYSICAL MATCH
Physical matches are made when the contours of broken pieces are sufficiently unique and fit together
so that it is clear that both pieces were originally one object. Broken pieces left at a scene may be
suitable for a physical match request when a suspect is found or a suspect vehicle is developed.
A physical match is the strongest level of association between two objects in the Trace Evidence
disciplines. The use of microscopes and specialized lighting conditions allows an examiner in the
laboratory to photograph the details of the edge contour that may not be obvious to the naked eye.
If a physical match is unable to be made between evidence items, it may be possible to compare
the overall construction and composition of the pieces to determine if they are similar or
dissimilar. This analysis of class characteristics would fall under a Trace Miscellaneous exam.
28.1 Evidence Types
Any piece of a rigid or pliable object has the potential to make a physical match to another object.
Examples of rigid objects include: paint chips, broken glass, car parts (e.g., taillight, paint chips, bumpers
and side mirrors), and weapons. Examples of pliable objects include: paper, tape, fabric, garbage bags,
matches from matchbooks, etc.
28.2 Collection and Packaging
Take photographs of objects before packaging to assist the physical match examiner with the analysis.
Care must be taken to avoid damaging or altering the edges of the evidence during collection and
packaging.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
28.0 PHYSICAL MATCH
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Attempt to collect as many broken pieces that appear related as possible. These can be packaged
together if found in the same vicinity (e.g., broken lamp base, pieces of vehicle light assembly, several
sheets of torn notebook paper in a garbage can).Items collected from different areas or locations should
be packaged separately. Housings, such as that from a headlamp or taillight, can be removed from a
vehicle and submitted in its entirety to the lab.
Caution: General handling and other laboratory examinations (e.g., processing for latent prints) can alter
the edges used in physical match analysis. Communication with lab personnel regarding a possible
physical match should be done before other work is performed.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
29.0 HAIR EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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29.0 HAIR EVIDENCE
Hair evidence can be obtained from the victim, the suspect, a crime scene, or from other evidence such
as clothing. Hair is valuable evidence, particularly in cases where the perpetrator is a stranger to the
victim or an environment.
29.1 Hair Examinations
The following may be determined with hair examinations:
Determination of human or non-human origin
Limited determination of animal species
Determination of human body origin (e.g. head hair, pubic hair, etc.)
Whether there are indications that a human hair was forcibly removed
Alterations exhibited in a human head hair (e.g. bleached, dyed, etc.)
Whether the root of a hair appears appropriate to attempt nuclear DNA analysis
Similarity or dissimilarity between evidence hairs and a hair standards
Whole human head hairs and pubic hairs (where the root is present) generally have enough microscopic
features to allow for a meaningful comparison to a standard. Hairs from other parts of the body, or hair
fragments (where the root isn’t present), are typically not well suited for a comparison.
A hair examiner will examine and compare evidence hair to standards, basing their conclusion(s) on the
features of the hair samples. Common conclusions include statements regarding the similarity or
dissimilarity of the evidence hair to the standard; however, hair comparisons are not a means of
identification. An inadequate hair standard can affect the significance of hair comparison conclusions.
See below for guidance regarding collection of hair standards.
29.2 DNA Analysis of Hairs
Because nuclear DNA analysis of hairs is destructive and does not always end in a useable DNA result,
it is the policy of the Forensic Services Division to perform morphological hair comparisons prior to DNA
analysis when possible.
The hair examiner will evaluate the hair for nuclear or mitochondrial DNA. The nuclear DNA analysis
targets the root section of the hair. Mitochondrial DNA analysis of hairs can be performed on the root or
the shaft portion of the hair. The Forensic Services Division does not perform mitochondrial DNA
analysis, but can assist with the transfer of evidence to the FBI or a private laboratory when necessary.
The amount of DNA in a hair is very small and therefore contamination may occur if precautions are not
taken. Do not touch hair evidence with your bare hands or contaminated gloves.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
29.0 HAIR EVIDENCE
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29.3 Collection of Hair Evidence
Hair evidence can be collected in a number of ways. The “Hair Collection Methods” table lists the various
methods and when they are appropriate.
Hair Collection Methods
Method
Description
Packaging
When to Use
“Pick”
method
Using your gloved fingers or tweezers,
carefully retrieve the hair taking care
not to pinch, crush, or stretch it.
Place hair into a
paper fold, in a folded
Post-It note, or paper
envelope.
For hairs you can
see.
Vacuum
sweepings
Use a portable vacuum cleaner
equipped with special traps holding a
piece of filter paper. Lightly vacuum
the surface of interest. The goal is to
collect trace evidence that is on the
surface of the object, not to clean the
object. Take care not to overload to
ensure the filter paper doesn’t lift
allowing material to pass into the
vacuum.
Carefully remove
filter trap, cover with
the lid or cap, and
package in a paper
or plastic bag.
For hairs you cannot
see, or to be sure
you have not missed
any. Good on car
seats, sections of
carpeting, and other
large surfaces.
Adhesive
lifts*
Use an adhesive sheet, fingerprint
tape, cellophane tape, or other clear
adhesive substrate and pat over the
item. Take care not to miss any areas
or allow the tape to become
“overloaded.” Post-It notes may also
be used for small areas.
Stick adhesive tapes
onto a clear,
colorless plastic
sheet (e.g.
transparency film).
Place into a paper
envelope or bag.
For hairs you cannot
see, or to be sure
you have not missed
any. Good on car
seats, surfaces of
clothing, and other
medium to large
surfaces.
Scraping
Use a clean spatula or long, flat tool to
scrape the surfaces of an object onto
a large, clean piece of paper. For this
to work well, the object should be
hanging or held up vertically over the
paper, scraping downwards.
Carefully shake any
trace evidence on the
paper to the center
and fold the paper.
Seal the paper fold
and place into a
paper envelope or
bag.
For hairs you cannot
see. Works well on
clothing or other
pliable objects.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
29.0 HAIR EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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* Gridded template for adhesive lifts can be found HERE
Cautions
Care should be taken to store adhesive lifting materials in such a way that they will not become
contaminated prior to use.
Use of tools, such as forceps and tweezers, may cause damage to the trace evidence.
Clean any collection tools thoroughly between samples to prevent cross-contamination.
Avoid serrated tools as they may be more difficult to clean thoroughly.
29.4 Collection of Hair Standards
Because of the variation in characteristics among different hairs from the same body region of one
person, it is important to obtain a sufficient number of hairs in order to adequately represent the ranges
of all characteristics (e.g., color, length, etc.) present. If the ranges of characteristics are large, it
becomes necessary to obtain a large number of hairs.
Hairs should be collected from the head and pubic area if appropriate. Hairs from different regions have
different characteristics. A head hair standard cannot be used for comparison to pubic hair evidence.
Collect hair standards in the following manner:
Obtain standards from all persons who might reasonably be considered a source of an unknown
hair (e.g., suspect, victim, and other individuals common to an environment).
Obtain standards as soon as possible after the crime occurred. Hair naturally changes in its
characteristics over time because it is constantly growing. The standards should reflect the
individual’s hair as close to the date of the crime as possible.
It is recommended that a known head hair sample consists of at least 24 hairs collected from 5
different areas of the scalp (center, front, back, and both sides). These hairs should be obtained
by both pulling and combing. The recommended procedure for obtaining combed hairs is to use a
clean, unused comb and repeatedly comb the hair over a large sheet of clean paper.
If appropriate to the case, a pubic hair standard should consist of at least 24 hairs obtained by
both pulling and combing from different areas of the pubic region
Gather all the hairs collected from a single body region and place into a paper fold or paper
envelope
Seal and label the envelope with the individual’s name, date, and the body region it was collected
from.
Do not package paper folds containing different individual’s hair in the same envelope, or
package hair standards with hair evidence. This could allow cross contamination to occur.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
29.0 HAIR EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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29.4.1 Secondary Standards
A secondary standard is not obtained from an individual directly, but from an object or location where the
individual is believed or known to have deposited hair (e.g., a hairbrush). Necessity should be the only
reason to obtain secondary hair standards vs. pulled/combed hair standards (e.g., missing person,
person buried/cremated before collection could occur).
Secondary hair standards may be acceptable if it can be demonstrated or documented that the hair
collected from the object/location is unlikely to include hair(s) from other individuals. The acceptance of a
secondary standard for comparisons will be evaluated by the hair examiner on a case-by-case basis.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
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30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
Shoe, tire and fabric impressions are routinely present at crime scenes. Examination of these
impressions may provide the investigator with valuable leads such as the type, make/model, and
approximate size of the footwear or tire. If properly documented and collected, almost every impression
left by a shoe or tire has value for forensic comparison to a suspected source. Even when suspect
footwear is not available, images of impressions from scenes may be submitted to the laboratory for
search in the SICAR (Shoeprint Image Capture and Retrieval) database for make/model determination
and comparison to impressions from other scenes. The make/model of tire responsible for a tire
impression may also be possible. Instructions for submitting SICAR images via e-mail are listed below.
Impressions made by other objects (e.g., weapons) may also be encountered and may be
collected/documented using the methods described below.
30.1 Impression Evidence General Guidelines
If impression evidence can be collected without damage, it should be photographed, packaged,
and submitted to the laboratory for examination under controlled conditions.
Always include a scale when taking photographs of impressions to be used for examination. The
scale should be a two dimensional ruler and should be placed on the same plane as the
impression.
Impressions in soil, sand, snow, or impressions which cannot be sent to the laboratory should be
photographed and collected via casting or lifting.
30.2 Photographing Impression Evidence
Photographs of the evidence should always be taken before any attempt to collect it.
Photograph the general scene that contains the impression evidence.
Impression evidence should be photographed in an uncompressed format (e.g., TIFF or RAW).
Place the camera on a tripod with the camera directly over and perpendicular to the impression.
If the impression is on an angled surface adjust the camera to tilt it to a plane parallel to the
impression. It is important to avoid taking the photos at an angle to the impression. This can
result in the inability to accurately enlarge the images as needed for comparison.
Adjust the camera height so the impression and scale fill the frame.
Use overlapping exposures to record large impressions.
Use side lighting at various angles and from various directions to illuminate tread design more
clearly. This may require shading the camera setup from high, bright sunlight with a makeshift
tent and access to a detachable flash unit.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Representation of the camera and
tripod setup for shoeprint photography
Photograph of a shoeprint impression. Notice the shoeprint fills the frame, a scale is present,
and the camera is directly over the shoeprint, not at an angle.
30.3 Three-Dimensional Impressions
Three-dimensional impressions are those that have a significant depth, in addition to the length and
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
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width of the impression. Commonly, they may be found in soil, sand, snow or other materials and the
detail within the impression may vary according to the substrate. Casting is an effective method of
collecting these types of impressions. Impressions should always be photographed prior to casting.
Photographs, however, are not considered a substitute for a cast. If a lengthy tire track is encountered,
an attempt should be made to cast a section at least three feet in length. Do not clean out debris that is
part of the impression or was present when the impression was made.
30.4 Casting Methods
Note: The methods described below are not applicable to casting of impressions in snow. Specialized
techniques are required for casting of snow impressions. Should the need arise to cast impressions in
snow, please contact the laboratory for assistance or advice regarding the casting of snow impressions.
Dental stone or die stone should be used to cast three-dimensional footwear and tire tread impressions.
Plaster of Paris is no longer recommended as an acceptable casting material. Dental stone can be
obtained from local dental supply houses or in pre-made ready to use kits at minimal cost.
If using bulk dental stone, two (2) pounds of dental stone may be placed into an 8 x12 inch Ziploc plastic
bag; this amount will cast an average sized shoe impression. In preparation for use at crime scenes,
numerous two-pound bags can be prepared and stored.
When using a commercially prepared kit, follow manufacturer instructions for mixing.
The following is the procedure for making a cast from a self-made (bulk) dental stone kit:
Retrieve a two-pound bag, add about 10 ounces of water, and thoroughly mix in the closed bag.
The mixture should have the consistency of thin pancake batter. If needed, add more water or
dental stone to create the correct consistency.
Metal forms may be placed around the impression to contain the casting mixture. These are less
critical with the advent of dental stone and other forensic casting materials
4
.
Open the bag and, with the bag at ground level, carefully pour the mixture into or next to the
impressions, allowing it to gently flow into it. Fill the impression completely so that the mixture
overflows out of the impression.
When the cast is firm but still soft, scratch identifying marks on the exposed surface or write
identifying marks with a permanent marker when the cast is dry.
Allow the cast to dry for a minimum of twenty minutes in warm weather, longer in cold, wet
conditions.
Carefully lift the cast. Do not try to clean the cast; cleaning will occur in the laboratory.
Package the cast in a large brown paper bag or cardboard box (not plastic) and allow to dry for
an additional 48 hours.
4
This was more critical when plaster of Paris was used as the casting material. The form was required because the
cast had to be about 2 inches thick to be reinforced properly. This is no longer a concern with dental stone and
other modern forensic casting materials.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
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30.5 Two Dimensional Impressions/Prints
A two-dimensional impression is one where there is no significant depth to the impression. A thin deposit
of dust, mud, blood, or other material from a shoe or tire onto a hard surface may create these
impressions.
Floors, glass, desktops, doors, paper items, etc. can retain a dust or residue impression at a
scene. Some impressions may be clearly visible while others may be partially or totally latent.
Latent dust shoeprints can often be located by turning out all lights and shining a flashlight across
the surface of interest at a low angle. For example, to search for latent shoeprints on a vinyl floor,
place the flashlight on the floor (or near it) and allow the long beam of light to shine across the
floor.
Photograph the impressions before collecting.
Attempt to enhance or lift the impression only if the entire item cannot be retrieved from the
scene and submitted to the laboratory.
Dry dust and residue impressions may be lifted with an electrostatic lifting device, gelatin lift, or
adhesive lift. Contact the laboratory for purchasing information.
Impressions made by wet or damp footwear can sometimes be enhanced by carefully dusting
with fingerprint powder. A small portion of the impression should be dusted first to test the
success of the powdering technique. The impression is then photographed and can be lifted with
a contrasting gelatin or adhesive-lifting material. Contact the laboratory for information on where
to purchase lifts.
30.6 Collection and Packaging
Whenever possible, collect the impressioned item and submit it to the laboratory.
Protect the impressioned item so that the impression does not rub off.
Package in a cardboard box or paper bag. Carefully securing the item to the bottom of a thin
cardboard box is a good way to protect flat impressioned items.
Submit the photographs of the impression to the laboratory. These should be properly packaged
as evidence and submitted along with any casts or lifts.
30.7 Exemplars and Standards
30.7.1 Footwear Exemplars
There may be several people who have legitimately walked into a crime scene. These include first
responders, medical personnel, members of the crime scene team, funeral home or Medical Examiner’s
Office personnel, individuals from the District Attorney’s Office, etc. These people may leave shoeprints
at the scene and it can become difficult to distinguish evidentiary shoeprints from those that are artifacts
of the crime scene processing.
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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Exemplars may be collected from people entering the crime scene in a number of ways. A good time to
do this is have the person keeping the crime scene log require everybody entering the scene to give a
shoeprint exemplar before proceeding into it. This may be accomplished by:
Taking a photograph of the shoe sole.
Greasing the soles with a thin film of petroleum jelly and having the individual step onto a clean
piece of paper. Dust the grease print with fingerprint powder for visualization.
Using a commercially available kit consisting of an ink pad with non-visible ink and foot-sized
pieces of paper for collection.
30.7.2 Footwear Standards
If a comparison is to be performed, footwear should be submitted to the laboratory as standards from all
individuals thought to have left evidence impressions.
30.8 SICAR submission instructions for emailed images
This is for make/model searches only. Comparisons must be submitted to the lab in-person on physical
media. These instructions apply for tire tracks too.
1) Fill out a Form 49. You can find one at
http://www.oregon.gov/osp/FORENSICS/docs/ospform49sept201.pdf
Make sure to fill in Agency Case #, Offense, Offense Date, Investigating Officer and their contact
information, and information regarding individuals (if known). Select “Footwear (SICAR)” in the
Requested Service section for tire tracks as well. Save the form 49 in the following format
Casenumber-SICAR.pdf (ex. 14-000546-SICAR.pdf). Fill out the other areas as shown below.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
Originally Adopted: 05/01/2002
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OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
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2) Prepare images: Select one or two images that best depicts a particular outsole design. If there
are multiple outsole designs, please send them all under one case number. Check the file sizes
of the images. If they are near 20 MB, the OSP email system may strip them from our email.
You may need to compress the image to reduce the file size. If you do this, please view before
sending to make sure it hasn’t become too pixelated. If you are having difficulties with a
particular image please contact the laboratory. Below is an example of impressions that depict
different parts of an outsole design. Given enough information we can narrow the search down to
a particular piece of footwear.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
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3) Attach the images and Form 49 to an email and send to: [email protected].gov
Please indicate if there is other evidence that represents these impressions. Sometimes casts
and lifts show better detail of an outsole design. It may be necessary to request these items
before completing work on a case. Below is an example where the cast clearly shows the
lettering that is present in the outsole design. The lighting used in the image of the impression in
soil does not highlight the lettering sufficiently. Please indicate in the body of the email how many
images you are sending for a particular case.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
30.0 IMPRESSION EVIDENCE
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30.9 Tire Exemplars and Standard
It is highly recommended that tires be submitted to the laboratory for the making of tire exemplars and
comparison to unknown tire tracks. Whenever possible, tire exemplars should be made with the tire still
in place on the vehicle. If it is not possible to transport the vehicle or to collect the tire, please contact
your local laboratory for recommendations on how to proceed.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
31.0 COMPUTER EVIDENCE
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31.0 COMPUTER EVIDENCE
The Forensic Services Division does not examine this type of evidence. The Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI) accepts this type of evidence at its regional laboratory in Portland, Oregon. Please
refer to the FBI’s Northwest Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory website: http://www.nwrcfl.org/.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
APPENDIX A: HOW TO MAKE A PAPERFOLD
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APPENDIX A: HOW TO MAKE A PAPERFOLD
1. Fold a square piece of
paper into a triangle. If
using a rectangular piece of
paper, make the same fold
as above and then cut off
the excess.
2. Take one corner at the
folded edge and bring the
corner just past the center
point, keeping the two
folded edges together.
3. Take the second corner at
the folded edge and bring
the corner just past the
center point on the opposite
side, keeping the two folded
edges together.
4. Bring all folded edges up
together to the point where
the top of the paper starts to
angle.
5. Take the top center point
and tuck into the opening
created by the folded
edges.
6. Fold and tape seal along
this opening.
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
APPENDIX B: FIREARMS AND TERMINOLOGY
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APPENDIX B: FIREARMS AND TERMINOLOGY
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PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL
MANUAL REVISION HISTORY
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MANUAL REVISION HISTORY
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL HISTORY
ISSUING AUTHORITY: OPERATIONS MANAGER
VERSION
NUMBER
SECTION & COMMENTS
DATE
AUTHOR
REVIEWERS
0
Creation and Adoption of Physical Evidence
Manual
May 2002
1
Removed references to Coos Bay Lab, added
“gum seal” as ok for use as evidence sealer,
February
2004
2
Re-write to comply with ISO requirements;
changes in programs
January
2006
3
Removed gum seal w/ dye indicator as an
acceptable method of sealing evidence.
October
20, 2006
4
Updated lab area service map to show all
Douglas Co. to Springfield.
December
11, 2006
5
Added information regarding touch evidence to
6.0; added 25.0 Missing Persons and 26.0
Unidentified Remains. Deleted lab survey card
from appendix. Slight
changes/corrections/clarifications made to
Fingerprints, Firearms
October
26, 2007
6
Updated/added information to Missing Persons
25.0. Also changed contact info in 25.0 & 26.0
to UNT.
January
31, 2008
7
Complete revision of entire manual
December
13, 2011
S.
Hormann
8
Complete revision of entire manual
June 3,
2014
Technical
Leaders,
Odessa
Siegel, S.
Hormann
9
Complete review of entire manual.
Updates to technical content
throughout as needed
13.2.3 Change in submission policy for
pills, tablets, and capsules
September
10, 2015
Technical
Leaders,
Operations
Manager
See Policy
Tech
OREGON STATE POLICE FORENSIC SERVICES DIVISION
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MANUAL REVISION HISTORY
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10
Updated the following section with acceptance
criteria
5.0 Cancellation of Requested Analysis
6.1 Forensic Services Request Form
6.4.2 Evaluation of the Request for Analysis
5.2.2 Evidence Seals
6.3 Chain of Custody (COC)
11.7.1 Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Kit
Acceptance Criteria
12.11 High Throughput Property Crimes
Program
14.2 Chemistry Submissions
17.1 Integrated Ballistics Identification System
(IBIS)
17.2 Collection and Packaging of Firearms
Evidence
September
17, 2018
See
PolicyTech
