American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) Practice Exam

In the process of collecting trace evidence at a death scene, which action is considered inappropriate?

1. Sealing the evidence in a package

2. Taking photographs of the body

3. Removing all evidence from the body

4. Marking evidence for later identification

The correct answer is: Removing all evidence from the body

In the context of collecting trace evidence at a death scene, removing all evidence from the body is considered inappropriate for several reasons. First, the integrity of the evidence must be preserved, as the body itself is often a key component in understanding the circumstances surrounding the death. Trace evidence can provide critical information that may relate to the cause of death or potential foul play, and removing it without proper documentation could compromise its value. Additionally, forensic investigations follow strict protocols to ensure that evidence is collected systematically and methodically, respecting the legal chain of custody. Removing all evidence from the body can disrupt this process and lead to the loss of context that is vital for an accurate analysis later on. Forensic professionals typically document, photograph, and then carefully collect only what is necessary for the investigation, while leaving certain trace evidence intact for further examination or autopsy processes. Other actions, such as sealing evidence in a package, taking photographs of the body, and marking evidence for later identification, are all standard and acceptable practices in forensic investigations. Each of these methods serves to maintain evidence integrity, create a thorough record of the scene, and ensure that items can be accurately tracked and analyzed throughout the investigation process.