Intended as a companion to the "Journal of Forensic Nursing" article entitled "Evidence Collection and Analysis for Touch DNA in Groping and Sexual Assault Cases," this three-part video series introduces viewers to the significance of touch DNA evidence collection and analysis.
For this series, "touch DNA" is defined as "DNA profiles developed from sloughed skin or epithelial cells when an item or person is touched." The videos provide guidance for practices that can enhance evidence collection and the processing of touch DNA samples. The first video introduces viewers to the importance of touch DNA evidence collection and analysis for sexual assault cases that involve groping. The second video focuses on the development and use of the State of Utah Touch DNA Form, which guides evidence collection for touch DNA. A multidisciplinary approach is featured. The third and final video addresses how laboratory procedures, validations of laboratory processes, and mixture-interpretation guidelines can ensure quality processing of touch DNA samples and provide confident, reliable results and conclusions. It highlights the importance of familiarity with the equipment needed and how it functions with samples of all types in processing and interpreting DNA samples with low amounts of DNA.