Module Wrap Up

Summary

Hair and fiber are generally considered class evidence because they usually are not sufficient alone to link to a specific person or source. Analysis of the Mitochondrial DNA from the follicular tag is the exception in that it can provide individual evidence. Though the majority of hair and fiber evidence is class evidence, it can be helpful in cases where matching fibers are found. Other corroborating evidence is combined with the hair or fiber evidence and the probability of a positive link or match to a person or place is significantly increased. Botanical evidence such as pollen and seed pods can pinpoint locations and seasons of the year in some cases which can be very helpful in an investigation. Unusual plant species or species with very specific habitats or patterns are especially useful and have aided many cases in which there were initially no leads.

Now that you have completed the initial assessments for this module, review the lesson material with the practice activities and extra resources. Then, continue to the next page for your final assessment instructions.

Interactivity: Analysis of Hair, Fiber and Botanical Materials Review

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