This article on touch DNA and transfer DNA lists and attempts to answer some of the most common questions I am asked regarding touch DNA analysis including:  What is touch DNA?  How much DNA is left behind when an object is touched? Is DNA always left behind when an object is handled? What factors tend to increase the amount of DNA transferred via touch? How long will touch DNA remain on an object? Is secondary DNA transfer possible/likely given a certain scenario? Is there a way to determine who handled an item last? And finally, what sort of potential evidence items might contain touch DNA?  The latest reasearch in touch and transfer DNA is included as a reference guide for DNA analysts, attorneys, and investigators

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This article features information on how to recognize possible DNA sources at the crime scene, how to properly collect the evidence in order to minimize the possibility of contamination, and how to package and transport the biological evidence properly.  It also includes a guide in .pdf form listing types of evidence commonly found at various crime scenes. 

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This article discusses the effects various latent print chemicals have on DNA-bearing evidence.  Guidance is given on how to properly process an item of evidence for both latent prints and DNA.

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The transfer of DNA - both primary, secondary and tertiary - is discussed in this article.  "Touch" DNA evidence is now routinely examined in the forensic DNA laboratory and members of the law enforcement community should be aware of what types of evidence can yield DNA profiles. They should also be aware of the increased possibility of contamination when dealing with low-level samples such as "touch" DNA samples.  A review of the current literature dealing with touch DNA samples and DNA transfer is included.

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The topic of "Arizona-Style Searches" of the national DNA database is explored in this article.  Information is provided to explain the origin of these searches and what they might mean for the law enforcement community.

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MiniSTRs are explained in this article including what they are, when they might be useful in a case, and what laboratories are providing MiniSTR testing services.

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This article describes what familial DNA searching is, who is doing it, who is against it and how it has helped solve crimes in the past.

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The technique of Y-STR testing is described in this article.  Examples of types of cases that can benefit from Y-STR testing are given.  In addition, the disadvantages to Y-STR testing in comparison to traditional STR testing are explained.

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This article discusses how to get the most out of the evidence collected in a standard sexual assault evidence kit.  Tips are provided regarding how to communicate to the laboratory personnel regarding exactly what you need to have tested and why.

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This article explains how DNA testing can play a major role in helping to solve cold cases.  Some of the unique issues involving cold case evidence are discussed.

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This article discusses how to preserve the evidence that may be present on a gun.  In addition, a description of how the weapon should be processed in the crime lab so that the maximum amount of information can be obtained is described.  The Do's and Dont's of collecting, storing, and transporting weapons are listed.

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