Bindle
Definition
A small tamper-evident paper packet folded to contain trace evidence. All four edges are tucked inward so no material can escape and no staple or adhesive risks contamination. Placed inside an outer envelope for transport.
- Material
- Folded paper packet
- Edges
- All four tucked inward
- Purpose
- Tamper-evident containment of trace evidence
- Storage
- Placed inside an outer envelope
Common questions
Why avoid staples or adhesive when making a bindle?+
Staples can puncture the packet and lose fine trace material through the hole, and adhesive risks chemically contaminating or altering the evidence, so a fold-and-tuck closure is used instead.
What kinds of evidence are typically packaged in a bindle?+
Small, loose trace materials such as hairs, fibres, paint chips, glass fragments, and gunshot residue particles that would otherwise be lost or scattered in an open container.
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