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Keeping the Evidence Reliable The task of searching a death scene is to find anything that should not be there. First of all, photographs or video recordings are taken, not only of the body, but also of any visible traces. This includes all footprints, tire tracks, marks on tree trunks, signs of a struggle, bloodstains, or any objects possibly used for assault. Ideally, the investigator should make a recording of everything that is done and of everything he sees. Then the detailed search begins. Every physical object must be collected, us- ing either latex-gloved hands or forceps, and placed in a plastic bag or box. This must be labeled with full details of where and when it was found. Its position can also be marked on a grid plan of the area. Every time such an item of evidence passes from the custody of one person to another, it should be signed for and logged. This is called the “chain of custody.” Any gap in this chain may be seized on by defense counsel at trial as an indication that the forensic evidence is not to be relied upon. The search must be carried out as soon as possible, particularly if the crime scene is outdoors. Fingerprints can be searched for later, since they generally sur- vive for a long time. Similarly, bloodstains are scraped up for later analysis, and materials such as dust and fibers are collected with a miniature vacuum cleaner. In the Autopsy Room The word “autopsy” means “seeing for oneself.” This is what the medical exam- iner or pathologist does, examining the dead body in detail. In the case of rape, however, the surviving victim is examined.

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FORENSIC SCIENCE