Which type of evidence should be prioritized for preservation during analysis?

Prioritizing biological evidence for preservation during analysis is essential due to its unique properties and the importance it holds in forensic investigations. Biological evidence, such as blood, saliva, hair, and other bodily fluids, not only can provide critical DNA information but also can offer insights into the circumstances surrounding an incident, including presence, actions, and interactions of individuals involved.

Biological evidence is often subjected to degradation over time due to exposure to environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and biological activity. Therefore, immediate and careful preservation is crucial to ensuring that the evidence remains viable for testing and analysis. Detection and analysis of biological materials can lead to the identification of suspects or victims and provide a strong link between a crime scene and the individuals involved.

While other types of evidence, such as electrical and digital evidence, are also significant in forensic investigations—especially in cases involving technology—biological evidence often holds the highest potential for individualization and can establish connections in a way that is not always possible with other forms of evidence. This makes it necessary to prioritize biological evidence for preservation during the initial stages of analysis.