What does "trace evidence" typically include?

Trace evidence typically includes small materials that are often transferred from one location or surface to another during the commission of a crime or event. This can include items such as hair, fibers, or paint, which are often microscopic or nearly invisible to the naked eye.

The significance of trace evidence lies in its ability to link a suspect, victim, or crime scene. In forensic investigations, even minute amounts of these materials can provide crucial information about the events that transpired. For example, the presence of a specific type of fiber from a carpet can indicate that a suspect was in a particular location, or that they interacted with a victim or object.

The other options focus on larger or less specific types of evidence. Large evidentiary objects, such as vehicles, do not fall under the category of trace evidence due to their substantial size and clear visibility. Electronic data, while vital in investigations, constitutes a different category of evidence known as digital evidence. Witness testimonies, too, are crucial, but they represent a narrative account rather than physical evidence. Therefore, the inclusion of hair, fibers, or paint reflects the essence of trace evidence in forensic contexts.