Evidence Drying Cabinets Explained

Once a crime scene has been thoroughly documented and the locations of the evidence noted, then the evidence collection process can begin. The collection process will usually start with a gathering of the most fragile, or most easily lost evidence.

There is no way to anticipate the day, time or amount of evidence that a forensics department will receive at any given moment. Crime scene investigators may send evidence for processing at a point in the day that no one is available to receive it.

Consider that the personnel who handle the evidence initially are retired officers or civilians who keep a more traditional Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. work schedule. During the week,  the evidence process runs smoothly, but when no one is there, Evidence Drying Cabinets and other evidence storage lockers are the answer.

Temporary Evidence Storage

As a temporary storage solution, Evidence Drying Cabinets provide the security and infrastructure needed to maintain the integrity of the evidence until someone is able to process it.

Biological evidence is submitted either wet or dry. There are certain types of evidence that need to remain in liquid form, but, the remaining wet evidence should be dried in Evidence Drying Cabinets so that it can be properly stored and tested in the future.

If wet evidence is not correctly dried, it is very likely that bacterial growth will destroy the biological material. Crime scene investigators must gather evidence and make sure it dries safely without DNA cross-contamination. The Evidence Drying Cabinet provides a secure, ventilated chamber to dry this wet evidence, which may contain biohazards.

There are many options when it comes to the type of evidence storage lockers a department can choose from.

For starters, there are pass-through locker an non-pass-through lockers.

Pass-through lockers are built into the wall and allow evidence to be deposited on one side and received on the other. Technicians can retrieve the evidence in a secure location by opening a full-size rear door. There is an optional front-lock-out system to further enhance security and prevent unauthorized access.

The other option is a non-pass-through locker where evidence is deposited and retrieved from the same self-closing doors. The items in this system can only be removed by authorized personnel.

There are several other key characteristics to consider when choosing Evidence Storage Shelving.

1. Multipoint Deadbolt Locking System: The double-walled, welded doors and anti-pry tabs provide assurance that evidence will not be compromised and provides ultimate security.
2. Push-Button Lock System: A unique, keyless system makes depositing evidence simple and efficient.
3. Self-Closing Doors: The stainless steel, continuous door hinges rest flush with the locker.
4. Computerized Tracking and Monitoring: ControLoc Technology offers unparalleled preservation of the evidence and all pertinent information including who is handling the evidence and when.
5. Refrigerated Evidence Storage: These can maintain a constant temperature of 38-42 degrees Fahrenheit so that biological evidence is preserved.

These storage systems can deliver an immediate boost to your department’s space efficiency and productivity not to mention they ensure that evidence is being handled securely.Click some of the photos below to see our evidence and biological drying cabinets. What type of evidence are you storing, need some ideas on how to store it? Call us!

What should you consider when planning your evidence storage?