NCJ Number
213544
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 73 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2006 Pages: 48-49,51,53
Date Published
March 2006
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the evidence-collection protocols that will be required in crimes perpetrated with weapons of mass destruction (WMD), in order to meet the credibility requirements of an adversarial forum.
Abstract
The standard to which chemical, biological, and radiological evidence will be held will be the criminal standard, which in some jurisdictions is "beyond a reasonable doubt." This is a more demanding standard than many of the sampling protocols used by the United States and the international community; for example, one of the shortcomings of the protocols described in the "Recommended Operating Procedures for Sampling and Analysis in the Verification of Chemical Disarmament" is the absence of a documented procedure for the sampling equipment sterilization process. Knowing when, where, and how to sample evidence is just one component in a complex and sometimes dangerous evidence-gathering process. In addition, the proper selection and preparation of sampling equipment, the types of analysis required, cross and outside contamination control, evidence transportation, and evidence storage are all critical to any successful criminal investigation and prosecution. The collection of chemical, biological, and radiological evidence can be broken down into 15 basic sampling disciplines that cover 5 basic sampling matrixes. These matrixes include aerosols (air), liquids, solids, surfaces, and skin samples. Each of these evidence-collection disciplines has unique and detailed requirements. Each must be addressed and mastered by law enforcement personnel if evidence-collection procedures are to withstand the scrutiny of a thorough defense probe in an adversarial criminal justice forum. 10 notes