What is the proper way to collect clothing as evidence in a sex crime?

Collecting clothing as evidence in a sex crime involves ensuring that each item is treated with care to maintain its integrity, prevent contamination, and preserve any potential forensic evidence. Each article being placed in a separate paper bag is the proper procedure because it allows for the preservation of fibers, DNA, and other evidence that might be transferred between different items if they were to be stored together.

Using paper bags is also beneficial because they allow the material to breathe, which helps to prevent the growth of mold and the degradation of any biological evidence. This method ensures that each piece of clothing remains distinct and uncontaminated by other items, which is crucial for both investigative purposes and in court, where evidence needs to maintain a clear chain of custody and integrity.

In contrast, other methods, such as using a plastic bag or mixing items together, could compromise the evidence, either by trapping moisture and promoting degradation or by confusing the source of any evidence due to cross-contamination. Keeping items in their original location is less practical for transport and collection, especially if the goal is to preserve evidence for legal proceedings.