Locard's Exchange Principle states that when a person comes into contact with an object or another person, cross-transfer of what can occur?

Locard's Exchange Principle states that when a person comes into contact with an object or another person, cross-transfer of what can occur?

• A. Only physical evidence is transferred
• B. No evidence is transferred
• C. When a person comes into contact with an object or another person, cross-transfer of psychical evidence can occur
• D. Digital evidence can transfer

Answer: (C)

Locard's Exchange Principle centers on the idea that contact between people and objects results in an exchange of material. When someone touches an object or another person, traces are left behind and, in turn, something from the object or person is picked up. This means physical evidence—fibers, hair, skin cells, soil, residues, and similar tangible material—can be transferred between the two during the interaction. That’s why the concept emphasizes physical evidence: it’s about measurable, physical traces that can be collected and analyzed to connect a person or object to a scene or event. The notion of transferring psychical or digital evidence isn’t what this principle describes, since it focuses on tangible, physical exchanges that occur through contact.

Locard's Exchange Principle centers on the idea that contact between people and objects results in an exchange of material. When someone touches an object or another person, traces are left behind and, in turn, something from the object or person is picked up. This means physical evidence—fibers, hair, skin cells, soil, residues, and similar tangible material—can be transferred between the two during the interaction.

That’s why the concept emphasizes physical evidence: it’s about measurable, physical traces that can be collected and analyzed to connect a person or object to a scene or event. The notion of transferring psychical or digital evidence isn’t what this principle describes, since it focuses on tangible, physical exchanges that occur through contact.