The increase in processing time and case load is due, in large part, to improvements in technology and the forensic sciences. We now look for and collect more evidence than ever before. Some of the types of evidence we look for and the tools we use to identify them are described in the following paragraphs. The purchase of reflective ultra violet imaging systems and alternate light sources has made the detection of physical evidence much easier. With the reflective ultra violet imaging system CSS officers can scan a room and detect fingerprints that are invisible to the naked eye.
Chemicals are also useful for making body fluid visible.
CSS officers can also use an alternate light source, similar to a laser, to search for latent fingerprints, hairs, fibers, blood and other bodily fluids. These units also uncover ink forgeries in document examinations. We use electronic distance measuring devices so that we can extensively diagram scenes. Global Positioning Systems are also used. Blood spatter is extensively documented.