Handling, Lifting, Packing, and Forwarding of Physical Evidence in Firearm Cases

Physical Evidence in Firearm Cases

Introduction:

In the realm of forensic investigations involving firearms, proper handling, lifting, packing, and forwarding of physical evidence play a pivotal role in ensuring accurate analysis and conclusive results. The meticulous approach to these processes can significantly impact the success of forensic ballistics cases.

Handling and Lifting:

1. When handling a pistol or revolver, employ a careful grip using two fingers on the butt or the butt ring. Avoid using objects in the trigger guard or barrel to lift the firearm.
2. Never point the firearm's muzzle towards anyone during handling.
3. Preserve fingerprints on firearms, especially those on the magazine of an automatic pistol.
4. Methodically collect cartridge cases, bullets, pellets, wads, etc., noting their positions at the scene.
5. Mark your initials on the evidence items to aid identification later.

Collection:

1. Securely gather evidence items, such as firearms, cartridge cases, bullets, etc., while maintaining their positions and photographing them.
2. If live cartridges resembling the crime scene are found, they should also be forwarded for test firing.
3. Note the presence of bullets lodged in objects like furniture and walls, carefully removing material around them to preserve rifling marks.
4. Great care is essential in collecting and packing bullets and cartridge cases to prevent damaging microscopic marks left by the firearm.
5. Clothing with bullet holes should be carefully handled, and the affected area covered with clean paper before packing.
6. In the case of glass-related incidents, meticulously collect glass pieces and preserve powder patterns.

Packing:

1. Pack bullets and cartridge cases separately to prevent scratching during transportation.
2. Wrap firearms in cloth and place them in wooden or cardboard boxes for forwarding.
3. Never send loaded firearms to the forensic laboratory; seek expert assistance for unloading if required.
4. In rare cases of sending loaded firearms, ensure they are marked as such and handled with extreme caution.
5. Protect the firing pin with cotton and cap the muzzle with sterilized cotton to avoid damage during packing.
6. Preserve gunshot residue, blood-stained clothes, and wads separately, avoiding damage or disturbance.
7. Avoid cutting, folding, or creasing clothing across bullet holes; pack each clothing item separately.
8. Include relevant reports and diagrams when forwarding evidence for estimation of the range of fire.
9. In glass-related incidents, photograph and collect samples carefully, ensuring ricochet traces are preserved.
10. Each parcel should contain only one case of property.
11. Properly label both inner and outer packaging.
12. Ensure the requisition letter is accurate and clear, containing case details, packing mode, and officer particulars.
13. Detailed case history is crucial for comprehensive analysis, especially in cases of accidental or negligent firing.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, adherence to proper procedures for handling, lifting, packing, and forwarding of physical evidence in firearm cases is paramount. By following these guidelines, forensic investigators can ensure the integrity of evidence, accurate analysis, and the establishment of crucial facts in firearm-related investigations.