What is a FALSE statement regarding bloodstain collection and preservation?

Damp bloodstains should not be packaged in airtight containers because doing so creates an environment conducive to mold growth and can compromise the integrity of the evidence. When blood remains damp in a sealed environment, it can degrade, leading to contamination or degradation of DNA, which is critical for forensic analysis. Proper packaging involves allowing the evidence to air dry before sealing it in a breathable container, such as paper. This helps maintain the quality of the bloodstain for future analysis.

Timely collection of bloodstains is crucial to preserve the evidence, as the longer blood is left unattended, the higher the risk of contamination or alteration. Keeping blood samples cool is essential to slow down the degradation of biological materials and maintain their viability for testing. Additionally, proper labeling of all evidence is vital for chain-of-custody purposes and for ensuring that the evidence can be properly utilized in investigative processes. Each step is integral to maintaining the integrity of blood evidence in a forensic context.