Trace Evidence

Prior to beginning this discussion, review the required readings for this week and find/review two additional credible sources from the Ashford University Library (or another resource for finding credible sources) that relate to the methods used in the analysis of the chosen type of trace evidence. Trace evidence includes many different types of materials. In simplest terms, trace evidence is the term used to describe materials that can be transferred from a person to another person or to an inanimate object during a crime. Trace materials can include human hair, animal hair, textile fibers, fabric, rope, feathers, soil, glass, and building materials. As you read through the required materials for this week, you should become familiar with the methods used in the analysis of these trace materials. For this discussion, choose a specific type of trace evidence, outline the history of the use of such evidence, and describe the process for analysis of such evidence.

Include the following elements in your initial post:

• The specific type of trace evidence you have chosen
• An outline of the history of the use of such evidence in the investigation of crime and the prosecution of criminal cases
• A description of the process for analysis of such evidence