What type of evidence must an investigator collect during a ballistics investigation?

What type of evidence must an investigator collect during a ballistics investigation?

• A. Firearm specifications only
• B. Only unspent bullets
• C. Ballistic evidence including weapon and serial number
• D. Clothing of the victim

Answer: (C)

In a ballistics investigation, collecting ballistic evidence is crucial for establishing connections between firearms and the incidents in which they were used. The correct option emphasizes the importance of gathering comprehensive ballistic evidence, which includes information about the weapon itself, such as its make and model, serial number, and any related components. This information is essential for tracing firearms and linking them to specific crimes or individuals. Collecting specific evidence like the weapon or spent bullets enables investigators to perform ballistic tests, compare markings made on the bullets and cartridge cases, and establish whether a particular firearm was involved in the crime. This comprehensive approach allows for a more robust investigation and helps to corroborate witness statements or other pieces of evidence in a case.

In a ballistics investigation, collecting ballistic evidence is crucial for establishing connections between firearms and the incidents in which they were used. The correct option emphasizes the importance of gathering comprehensive ballistic evidence, which includes information about the weapon itself, such as its make and model, serial number, and any related components. This information is essential for tracing firearms and linking them to specific crimes or individuals.

Collecting specific evidence like the weapon or spent bullets enables investigators to perform ballistic tests, compare markings made on the bullets and cartridge cases, and establish whether a particular firearm was involved in the crime. This comprehensive approach allows for a more robust investigation and helps to corroborate witness statements or other pieces of evidence in a case.