Forensic Science Class vs. Individual Evidence

Forensic Science Evidence Types

• Blood Type
  Classified as class evidence, indicating a shared characteristic among a group.

• Fingerprints
  Considered individual evidence, unique to each person and can link a suspect to a crime scene.

• Handwriting
  An example of individual evidence; each person's handwriting bears distinctive traits for identification.

• DNA
  Recognized as individual evidence due to its unique genetic makeup, allowing precise identification.

• Shirt Attributes
  The color, texture, and fabric of a shirt are class evidence, providing general information about the item rather than individual specificity.

• Torn Edges of a T-shirt
  If edges match, this is classified as individual evidence, linking a piece to a specific garment.

• Brittle Object Fragments
  Found near a crime scene; reconstruction showing missing pieces qualifies as individual evidence, relating to a specific object.

• Torn Paper Matching
  Matching the torn edges of ripped paper signifies individual evidence, identifying a particular source.

• Indentions on Paper
  Indentations left on paper in a notebook count as individual evidence, revealing potential information about previous writings.

• Soda Can Evidence
  A soda can at a crime scene with matching tab traces is individual evidence, connecting it directly to a suspect.

• Blank Paper
  Blank pieces lacking any trace evidence are categorized as class evidence, providing no specific links to individuals.

• Latex Gloves at a Crime Scene
  Class evidence; gloves found at a home invasion site and a box in the prime suspect's apartment without trace evidence offer general information but lack individual links.

• Blood Type Analysis
  Blood type determined without DNA is considered class evidence, highlighting broader group associations rather than specific identification.

• Saliva
  Identified as individual evidence due to its biological uniqueness, allowing for precise attribution to a suspect.

• Glass Fragment Matching
  Jagged edges of broken glass matched to a broken window at a crime scene represents individual evidence, establishing a connection to a specific incident.

Explore the distinctions between class and individual evidence in forensic science with these flashcards. Each card presents key terms along with their definitions, helping you to understand how various types of evidence are used in criminal investigations.