Which of the following is an example of non-testimonial evidence?

• A. A written confession
• B. Fingerprints found at the scene
• C. A taped verbal admission
• D. A witness statement

Answer: (C)

Non-testimonial evidence refers to evidence that does not rely on a person’s statements to prove facts; it is physical or objective in nature. Fingerprints found at the scene are a classic example because they establish presence or contact without depending on what someone says. A confession or verbal admission, even when recorded, is a statement made by the suspect to law enforcement, which makes it testimonial evidence. The taped admission, while powerful, is still a declaration by a person and thus falls under testimonial evidence. So the fingerprints at the scene best illustrate non-testimonial evidence.