MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What type of packaging is appropriate for a gun or bloody knife during evidence processing?

1. Plastic Bag

2. Cardboard Box or Styrofoam Container

3. Glass Container

4. Breathable Paper Bag

The correct answer is: Cardboard Box or Styrofoam Container

The appropriate type of packaging for a gun or bloody knife during evidence processing is a cardboard box or Styrofoam container. This type of packaging helps to ensure the safety and integrity of the evidence. Gun and knife evidence, especially when associated with a crime scene, can retain biological material such as blood that needs to be preserved correctly for forensic analysis. Using a cardboard box or Styrofoam container allows for a breathable environment that aids in preventing moisture accumulation, which can degrade evidence or lead to contamination. This is particularly important for items that could harbor forensic evidence, as maintaining the chain of custody and the condition of such items is critical in legal proceedings. In contrast, using a plastic bag could trap moisture inside, creating conditions that may compromise biological evidence. A glass container, while sometimes useful for other types of evidence, is not practical for items like guns or knives due to the risk of breakage and potential safety hazards. Breathable paper bags, although they allow for some airflow, may not provide the same level of protection as a sturdier cardboard box or Styrofoam container for heavy or sharp objects. Therefore, the use of a cardboard box or Styrofoam container is preferred for properly handling items like guns or bloody knives.