Comparison of methods for collecting fired cartridge cases

Abstract

ABSTRACT DNA recovery from fired cartridge cases (FCCs) remains challenging due to the limited DNA amounts available for collection, hence efforts to retain the available DNA are essential. Here we use DiamondTM nucleic acid dye staining to show that DNA may be lost from an FCC to the inside of its packaging after collection at a crime scene. A novel cartridge collection device mitigated this DNA loss under the conditions tested and could be beneficial for casework.