What is examined

Examination of locks, keys, seals, monitoring devices and signs of forced opening, unlocking, damage or reuse.

The examination uses the submitted objects, traces, photographs, comparison specimens, case materials and the questions posed. Trace preservation, scaled documentation, packaging and information about the conditions of discovery are important.

Possible tasks

establish the presence, type and formation mechanism of a trace;
determine the direction, method and nature of the applied force;
assess trace suitability for identification;
compare a trace with footwear, a tool, a vehicle or an object;
detect signs of contact interaction;
prepare questions for court or a report review.

What to provide

objects bearing traces and comparison specimens;
scaled photographs of traces;
diagrams, procedural records, inspection reports, photographs and video;
an investigative order, a court ruling or draft questions;
information about the location, time and conditions of discovery;
the previous report, if a review is required.

Pricing

from RUB 70 000. The exact cost depends on the number of objects, complexity of traces, need for comparative examinations or a site visit, urgency and the scope of the report.

Examination of a lock, seal or locking and sealing device considers the mechanism's condition and traces of applied force. A breach of integrity and the possibility of opening by an abnormal method are different questions.

Subject of examination

The lock, keys and fastening components
Seals, impressions and locking and sealing devices (ЗПУ)
Tool marks, deformation and reinstallation

Sample questions for the expert

What is the actual condition of the submitted device?
Are there signs of applied force, dismantling or changes to the fastening?
What mechanism could have produced the traces detected?
Are the traces suitable for comparison with the suspected tool?

The final questions are formulated according to the objects and circumstances of the particular task.

What to prepare

The device itself with all surviving parts
Original keys and keys that were used, if available
Photographs of the installation and documents about discovery
Specimens and information about lawful repair or maintenance

How the examination is conducted

The object is first documented in its submitted condition. Subsequent examinations are planned with trace preservation in mind; any necessary action affecting the mechanism is agreed before it is performed.

Scope and limitations

The presence of scratches does not automatically prove forced entry. Their location, formation mechanism, effects of normal use and the condition before the event matter for the conclusion.

What the deliverable records

The report distinguishes technical condition, traces detected and the possibility of answering questions about the method of applying force.

Cost and terms

from RUB 70 000. The exact cost depends on the number of objects, complexity of traces, need for comparative examinations or a site visit, urgency and the scope of the report.

Inquiry

Send photographs of traces, documents or a description of the task

You may send photographs of traces, damage, locks, seals, footwear, tools or vehicles, a court ruling, an investigative order, draft questions or a report for review.

marks left by footwear, feet, clothing, teeth and fingernails;
marks left by implements, tools and mechanisms;
locks, seals, locking and sealing devices (ЗПУ);
vehicle traces and damage;
mechanical damage to clothing, knots and loops.

Type of examination Your name Contact phone number or email * Briefly describe the task * Attach photographs, documents or a report

Up to 10 files of 10 MB each. Preserve the source photographs and information about the provenance of traces; physical objects are transferred separately.

I give consent to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of considering and responding to my enquiry.

How data is processed: Personal Data Processing Policy. Attach only materials relevant to the examination; redact unnecessary data about other people.

Leave blank

For physical objects, it is important to preserve traces, packaging, storage conditions and information about the provenance of specimens.

Attachments: up to 10 files of up to 10 MB each, with a maximum combined size of 15 MB. If a file is rejected, the enquiry is not sent.

Locks, seals and locking and sealing devices