Trace Evidence Analysis

What is Trace Evidence Analysis?

Trace evidence analysis is the identification and/or comparison of small, possibly microscopic evidence, transferred by contact or discharged by movement during the commission of a crime. This evidence can often link a suspect to another individual or to the crime scene itself. It is the mission of the trace evidence analyst to identify and interpret these materials for use in legal proceedings.

How Can RJ Lee Group Assist in Identifying Trace Evidence?

RJ Lee Group forensic scientists are experts in analyzing trace evidence that includes:

  • Gunshot Residue (GSR) Analysis
    • Accredited by ASCLD-LAB
    • Samples collected from hands, clothing, vehicles, other surfaces to perform gunshot residue analysis
    • 5-10 business day turn-around
  • Gunshot Distance Determination (Determining the distance from the discharge to a target)
    • Accredited by ASCLD-LAB
      • Uses the modified Griess test for the presence of nitrite residues
      • Uses the sodium rhodizonate test for the presence of lead residues
  • Hair Analysis
    • Analysis and comparison of the morphological characteristics present in hair to determine whether the hair came from a human or an animal
    • If animal, the species may be able to be determined
    • If human, compare the unknown to a known population to determine if it might be consistent with the known sample
  • Fiber Analysis
    • Determine type of fiber (plant, animal, mineral or synthetic)
    • Determine if fibers are consistent with having originated from the same source
  • Fracture Match
    • Comparison of the broken edges of items from different sources to determine if they had once been joined