Which item should be considered for DNA collection?

• A. CLOTHES
• B. ANYTHING THE VICTIM TOUCHED
• C. WHERE THE CRIME HAPPENED/GEOLOGICAL LOCATION
• D. VICTIM BODY & SUSPECT BODY

Answer: (B)

DNA can be recovered from trace biological material left on objects. When someone touches something, skin cells, oils, and sweat can transfer to the surface, leaving so-called touch DNA. Collecting items the victim touched maximizes the chance of obtaining usable DNA, even if there are no visible injuries or fluids. This approach often yields material from the victim themselves and can also pick up DNA from others who handled the same items. While clothing or a body can contain DNA, they’re not as universally informative or as easy to access in every scenario, and the scene’s location by itself doesn’t provide DNA. Focusing on objects the victim touched targets the most consistently informative sources of genetic material.