What is the proper method for collecting clothing from a crime victim?

The proper method for collecting clothing from a crime victim is to cut around the areas of interest to prevent damage and contamination. This technique preserves valuable evidence that may be located on the fabric, such as fibers, blood, or other bodily fluids which could provide critical information for the investigation. By cutting strategically, investigators can minimize the risk of altering the evidence, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the scene and the subsequent analysis.

Moreover, clothing can often be delicate or fragile, especially if it has been damaged during the incident. Cutting rather than removing the clothing allows for its careful analysis without tearing or further compromising the fabric. Thorough care during collection helps ensure that all relevant evidence is preserved for forensic testing.

This approach also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a chain of custody, ensuring that the clothing is not contaminated by handling and is collected in a way that supports the investigation effectively. Other methods, such as removing clothing entirely, could lead to loss of evidence or contamination, while placing clothing in water would compromise its integrity. Storing clothing in a plastic bag without handling does not allow for careful appraisal and could also lead to damage or contamination.