ABSTRACT
A basic introduction to the scope of forensic science and the duty of police offi cers as gatherers and preservers of forensic evidence is found elsewhere (Rogers and Lewis 2007) and this level of understanding is assumed. This chapter does not attempt to introduce the reader to the detailed scientifi c principles or practical procedures associated with specifi c forensic techniques, as these are covered by many other practical and academic texts (e.g. Beaufort-Moore 2009 ). Each police force has its own procedures for the submission of samples for further forensic examination, details of which may be obtained from the force’s Scientifi c Support Department.
