Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
Physical Evidence – WEEK 2 Page 1 of 4
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
I. INTRODUCTION:
This module will discuss some information that can help particularly in solving a crime
scene. Therefore, Physical Evidence it is imperative to understand the real meaning in relation to legal
matters. Physical evidence refers to the evidence that sheds more light on the form of real, actual
physical object in relation to criminal activities. (Lee and Harris, 2011). The most important kinds of
physical evidence are fingerprints, tire marks, footprints, paints, and building materials.
III. PRELIMINARY ACTIVITIES:
At the end of this module, you should be able to
1. Identify the meaning of physical evidence and other related concepts
2. Distinguish the different types of physical evidence
3. Determine the value of physical evidence in criminal investigation.
4. Assess what physical evidence can be used for investigation
Before you proceed to the main lesson, test yourself in this activity.
Describe the image in one word.
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
Physical Evidence – WEEK 2 Page 2 of 4
_____________________________________________
Physical evidence refers to any material
object introduced in a trial for the purpose of proving a
fact in issue based on its demonstrable physical
characteristics. This includes all or part of any
conceivable object.
There are several types of physical evidence
that are likely to be found at the scene of a crime, and
can be analyzed scientifically, including those listed
below.
DNA –any tissue from the victim or suspect, such as hair, fingernails, bones, teeth
Body fluids –saliva, blood, sweat, semen, and urine of the victim or suspect
Impressions –tool marks, shoe prints, fingerprints, bite marks, tire tracks, etc.
Weapons – characteristics of firearms, ammunitions, and residue; chemical composition of explosive,
etc.
Questioned – documents –printing method or paper and link used in forged documents, handwriting
style, counterfeit bills, ransom notes, etc.
Miscellaneous trace evidence, such as dust and dirt, fibers, soil, glass, paint, skeletal remains,
fracture matches etc.
Types of Physical Evidence
CORPUS DELICTI
Corpus delicti is object or substances which are
an essential part of the body of the crime.
ASSOCIATIVE EVIDENCE
Associative evidence is a kind of evidence which
link the suspect to the crime scene or offense.
Fingerprints and shoe impressions are good examples of
associative scene evidence.
Source:https://www.google.com/search?
sxsrf=ALeKk03W9QBKNUPs4xByR
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
Physical Evidence – WEEK 2 Page 3 of 4
TRACE EVIDENCE, which an investigator or a crime
scene speak listen counters.
Trace evidence are articles which assist the
investigator in locating the suspect. One of the most
common types of physical evidence is a generic term
for small, usually microscopic materials/s. Trace
evidence found in the crime scene includes but are
not limited to blood, hair, glass particles, paint, fiber or
even soil.
Examples of physical evidence:
BLOOD SEMEN OR SALIVA EVIDENCE HAIR
DOCUMENTS FINGERPRINTS
DRUGS IMPRESSIONS
EXPLOSIVES ORGANS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL
FIBERS FLUIDS
FIREARM AND AMMUNITION POWDER RESIDUE
GLASS
Physical properties –Physical evidence cannot change, whereas testimonial evidence is based solely on
interpretation that can change or be erroneous.
CIRCUMSTANTIAL VARIABILITY
If any type of physical evidence is found and subsequently associated with a suspect
where he or she had no right to be, then upon proper identification, the evidence may:
1. Establish proof beyond reasonable doubt;
2. Establish probable cause; and
3. Establish a suspect’s presence at the crime scene.
If the physical evidence is found for a period during which a suspect may have had legitimate right
to be (i.e,. Innocent the access), Have no significance; and Provide leads to follow in order to establish the
case via other sources.
COLLECTION OF PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
The scene of the crime operation (SOCO) team must have several main goals in mind during the
process of collecting evidence from a crime scene; reconstruct the crime, identify the person who
committed the crime, preserve the evidence for analysis. And collect such evidence in a way that will make
them up in court
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
Physical Evidence – WEEK 2 Page 4 of 4
TRACE EVIDENCE
Trace evidence constitutes the most common type of physical evidence, which an
investigator and/ or crime scene specialist is likely to encounter. Trace evidence refers to
microscopic materials found at a crime scene, such as hair, blood, glass particles, foot/tire
impression fiber, or paint, or even soil.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES IN THE COLLECTION OF PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
1. Sufficiency of sample –sufficient weight, volume, or pieces of sample for analysis should be
submitted so that a series of lab tests can be performed.
2. Standard for comparison –a standard should be submitted so that comparative analysis can
be performed and facilitates the evaluation of crime.
3. Maintenance of individuality –different specimens should be packed individually to prevent
contamination
4. Labeling and sealing –individually packed specimens should be labeled and sealed properly to
avoid confusion in the preparation of requests and documentations
