Crime Scene Analysis: Procedures and Protocols
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Questions and Answers

During which stage of crime scene analysis does an investigator begin to form their own unique understanding of the events, potentially diverging from initial impressions?

  • Appreciation
  • Individualization (correct)
  • Reconstruction
  • Comparison

What is the primary significance of documenting the location and condition of physical evidence before it's moved from a crime scene?

  • To allow for easier storage of the evidence.
  • To ensure admissibility and maintain the integrity of the evidence. (correct)
  • To minimize disruption to the crime scene area.
  • To expedite the evidence collection process.

Why is maintaining a minimal chain of custody crucial for evidence collected at a crime scene?

  • It helps prevent contamination and ensures accountability. (correct)
  • It reduces the cost of storing and handling evidence.
  • It accelerates the processing of the evidence in the lab.
  • It simplifies the documentation process for legal purposes.

How do the stages of 'Appreciation, Comparison, Individualization, and Reconstruction' contribute to a comprehensive crime scene analysis?

<p>They provide a structured approach to understanding the crime from initial assessment to final theory. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to individually package and seal each piece of evidence collected from a crime scene?

<p>To prevent cross-contamination and ensure evidence integrity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of crime scene processing is MOST directly related to understanding the perpetrator's behavior and habits during the commission of a crime?

<p>Modus Operandi (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A detective arrives at a homicide crime scene. Which of the following actions should the detective prioritize FIRST?

<p>Secure and protect the crime scene (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At a crime scene, a blood sample is collected but improperly preserved. How might this affect potential DNA analysis?

<p>It may lead to degradation of the DNA, affecting the outcome of the analysis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a contact gunshot wound, which of the following is the primary characteristic observed due to the close proximity of the firearm?

<p>Burning of tissues in the affected area. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A gunshot wound exhibits lacerated edges, blackening of the skin, and gunpowder particles both inside and around the wound. The wound size is notably larger than the bullet's diameter. What is the most likely range of fire?

<p>Distance above 6 inches up to 24 inches. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

As the distance between a firearm and a target increases beyond 24 inches, what primary change is observed in the characteristics of the entrance wound?

<p>Burning or blackening of tissues, gunpowder tattooing, singeing of the hair and excavation of tissues becomes lesser and lesser until it disappears. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics is most indicative of a wound of exit?

<p>Everted wound edges. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a long-range gunshot wound where the bullet does not exit the body, where is the most likely location of the bullet slug?

<p>Lodged inside the body. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is defined by the introduction of foreign materials into the bloodstream, leading to a blockage of blood flow?

<p>Embolism. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of wound is characterized by minute, pin-point hemorrhages in the subcutaneous tissues?

<p>Petechiae. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a contusion and a hematoma?

<p>A hematoma involves a large collection of blood in a newly formed cavity, while a contusion is a superficial bruise. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates the 'timeliness' principle in intelligence?

<p>Delivering intelligence to the decision-maker when it can have the greatest impact. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of 'security' within an intelligence operation?

<p>To protect the integrity of intelligence activities. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During which phase of the intelligence cycle is the collecting agency's capability considered to ensure a coordinated search for information?

<p>Planning or collection effort (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which activity exemplifies a covert method of collecting information?

<p>Infiltration of an organization. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A police detective discreetly installs a hidden camera outside a suspect's residence. Which method of collection is this?

<p>Surveillance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the sequence of cellular death following somatic death?

<p>Nerve cells and brain cells simultaneously, then muscle cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of death investigation, what is 'apparent death' characterized by?

<p>A temporary suspension of vital functions, where life processes are minimally maintained. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the processing phase, what is the purpose of 'collation'?

<p>To record and organize raw materials for comparison. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following questions is most relevant when evaluating the reliability of a source?

<p>Is the source known to provide accurate information? (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to perform repeated testing for cessation of breathing over a period of time?

<p>To avoid misdiagnosing temporary breath-holding as permanent respiratory failure. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Decapitation or judicial hanging can cause the heart to beat for an extended period. How long can the heart beat persist after such an event?

<p>15 minutes to 1 hour. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An analyst receives conflicting reports about a suspect's location. What should the analyst prioritize when evaluating the reports?

<p>Assessing which source is most likely to be correct based on past reliability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does body temperature change after death, and what is the significance of a 15 to 20 degree Fahrenheit drop?

<p>Body temperature decreases until it matches the environment; a 15-20 degree drop is a potential indicator of death. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is post-mortem caloricity, and under what circumstances is it most likely to occur?

<p>A temporary increase in body temperature after death due to rapid putrefactive and chemical changes, especially in cases of infectious diseases or strychnine poisoning. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What causes livid discoloration in the skin after death, and why does it occur?

<p>The gravitation of blood to the lowest parts of the body due to gravity, causing discoloration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is post-mortem contact flattening, and how does it manifest on a deceased individual?

<p>The body becomes flattened in areas in contact with a surface after death. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is most crucial for investigators upon arriving at a crime scene?

<p>Recording the time/date of arrival, location, and environmental conditions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to secure a crime scene with tape or rope upon arrival?

<p>To prevent unauthorized access and protect potential evidence from contamination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario should the immediate removal of a dead body from a crime scene be considered?

<p>When unusual circumstances justify immediate removal. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for meticulously documenting and preserving evidence at a crime scene?

<p>To ensure the evidence can be accurately presented and analyzed in court. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it vital to gather information from a victim at a crime scene before they are transported to a hospital?

<p>To obtain immediate details about the circumstances of the crime. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does a coronal or medical examiner play at a crime scene involving a deceased individual?

<p>Removing the body from the scene and determining the cause of death. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a crime scene sketch?

<p>To accurately record the spatial relationships of objects and evidence at the scene. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might a suspect unintentionally carry objects or substances from a crime scene?

<p>By unknowingly attaching them to their clothing or shoes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following investigative actions would be LEAST helpful immediately upon arriving at a bank robbery crime scene?

<p>Immediately processing the scene for latent fingerprints to expedite analysis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a robbery investigation, what is the primary purpose of documenting everyone who enters the crime scene?

<p>To maintain the chain of custody and prevent potential contamination of evidence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a robbery investigation that involves video surveillance, what is the MOST effective approach to maximize evidence recovery?

<p>First review the video footage to identify potential areas where evidence may be located. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to determine the entry route used by the offender in a robbery investigation?

<p>To locate potential trace evidence and understand the offender's method of operation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following material is LEAST likely to be encountered as potential evidence at a crime scene?

<p>Cryptographic keys used for data encryption. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for photographing evidence at a crime scene before it is collected?

<p>To maintain a visual record of the evidence's original location and condition. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a bank robbery, what is the significance of 'bait money,' and how should investigators handle it?

<p>It is used to track the suspect after the robbery; investigators should record the serial numbers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the investigation of a house robbery, what should be the primary focus when interviewing the victim?

<p>Finding out what was stolen, and identifying areas where items may have been moved, to locate trace evidence. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Flashcards

Stages of Crime Scene Processing

The steps followed during crime scene investigation: Appreciation, Comparison, Individualization, Reconstruction.

Modus Operandi

The specific method and sequence of actions used by a perpetrator in crime commission.

Chain of Custody

The documentation process showing who handled evidence from crime scene to court.

Preliminary Survey

Initial assessment of the crime scene to gather basic information.

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Documentation of Evidence

Recording the condition and position of evidence before it is moved.

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Proper Collection of DNA Evidence

Collect biological samples carefully to maintain their integrity for DNA testing.

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Preservation of Evidence

Keeping biological samples under conditions to prevent decay and degradation.

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Proper Packaging of Evidence

Packing evidence individually to prevent cross-contamination and ensure integrity.

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Timeliness

Information must be shared at the right time for effective use.

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Security in Intelligence

Actions taken to protect the integrity of intelligence operations.

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Intelligence Cycle

Continuous process that responds to intelligence needs.

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Planning Phase

Determining how to effectively collect information based on agency capability.

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Collection of Information

Procurement of necessary intelligence without attracting attention.

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Covert Methods

Clandestine techniques to gather information from undetected sources.

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Processing of Information

Managing and organizing data to enhance understanding for decision-making.

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Evaluation of Information

Assessing credibility and relevance of intelligence data.

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Nerve cell death

Nerve cells die about 5 minutes after somatic death.

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Muscle cell survival

Muscle cells can survive 2-6 hours post-mortem before rigor mortis begins.

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Apparent Death

A state of temporary cessation of vital activities; also known as suspended animation.

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Cessation of Respiration

Persistent breathing stoppage after 5 minutes indicates respiratory failure.

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Cessation of Heartbeat

The stopping of pulse and circulation indicates death; can last 15 mins to 1 hour after decapitation.

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Cooling of the body

Body temperature decreases to match the environment after death; a drop of 15-20°F indicates death.

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Changes in skin

Post-death skin changes include lividity and loss of elasticity.

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Post-mortem caloricity

An increase in body temperature due to chemical changes within 1-3 hours after death.

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Types of Material Evidence

Various items that can serve as evidence in investigations, including texts and photographs.

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Cordon Off Crime Scene

Establish a boundary around the crime scene to preserve evidence and prevent contamination.

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Action Log

A continuous record of actions taken during the crime scene investigation for documentation and reference.

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Collecting Evidence Outdoors

Searching and gathering physical evidence from outside the crime scene, such as objects or samples.

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Continuous Photography

Taking uninterrupted photos of the crime scene to document evidence before it is moved.

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Sketching the Crime Scene

Drawing a layout of the crime scene, marking where evidence was found to aid in analysis.

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Entry Route Investigation

Examining how the offender entered the crime scene, looking for signs of forced entry.

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Victim Interview

Gathering information from the victim about the robbery, including what was taken and any disturbance.

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Contact Fire Wound

A wound occurring when the firearm is against the skin, causing tissue burning and blackening.

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Near Contact Fire Wound

A wound from a distance of up to 6 inches, showing blackening, burning, and gunpowder presence.

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Wound Distance with Gunpowder

Wound from 6 to 24 inches where tissues are less burned, but gunpowder is still present.

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Wound of Exit

A larger wound than the projectile often with everted edges and possible tissue protrusion.

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Characteristics of Wound Size

The size of the wound approaches the projectile’s size as distance increases beyond 24 inches.

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Embolism

Condition where foreign matter enters the bloodstream, causing blockage in blood flow.

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Closed Wound

A wound without a break in the skin or underlying tissues.

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Petechiae

Small, pin-point extravasations of blood under the skin or mucous membranes.

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Crime Scene Search

A methodical approach to identifying, preserving, and collecting evidence at a crime scene.

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Processing a Crime Scene

The application of techniques to recognize and gather evidentiary items and facts.

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Securing the Crime Scene

Establishing boundaries to protect the area where a crime took place.

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Recording Crime Scene Details

Documenting observations such as time, weather, and the scene's condition.

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Victim Status Assessment

Determining if the crime victim is alive or deceased upon arriving at the scene.

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Collecting Witness Statements

Gathering verbal or written accounts from people who observed the crime.

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Taking Crime Scene Photographs

Using correct procedures to capture images of evidence and witness locations.

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Study Notes

Crime Detection and Investigation

  • Investigation is the act or process of investigating, or the condition being investigated. This also includes searching or inquiry for facts, with detailed and careful examination. An investigator is someone who conducts investigations.

Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation and Intelligence

  • Criminal investigation is a systematic method of inquiry that is more a science than an art. Logic of scientific method must be supplemented by investigator initiative & resourcefulness. Investigation should be approached using a scientific framework that requires improvising.
  • A good investigator possesses strong communication skills, active listening, critical thinking, ability to work under pressure, and strong innovativeness & integrity. They must also have a deep understanding of rules regarding evidence.
  • Elements of crime in investigation should include motive, intent, & opportunity.
  • Due process of law emphasizes hearing before condemnation & judgment only after trial.
  • Substantive due process requires intrinsic validity of law, in interfering with life, liberty, or property.
  • Procedural due process grants rights of notice & hearing, as well as an impartial & competent tribunal during investigation.
  • Arrest involves taking a person into custody to answer for an offense (Rules of Court). Arrest can be made by restraint or submission to custody. Arrest should not include violence or unnecessary force (Rules of Court).
  • Arrest warrants are to be executed within 10 days from receipt. The executing officer must inform the person being arrested of the reason & warrant, with exceptions (Rules of Court). A warrant is not required at the moment of arrest, but must be presented to arrested person as soon as practical (Rules of Court).
  • Warrantless arrests are lawful when: the offense is committed in the officer's presence; when an offense has just been committed & probable cause exists; and when a prisoner escapes from custody (Rules of Court).
  • A search warrant is an order to search for & seize personal property (Rules of Court). This warrant is filed in the court of the area where the crime occurred (Rules of Court). The order must be issued by a Judge for the purpose of searching for stolen or embezzled property, or any object utilized or expected to be utilized in the commission of an offense (Rules of Court).
  • Warrantless search is permitted incident to lawful arrest to look for weapons or evidence related to the crime (Rules of Court).
  • Custodial investigation involves questioning or interviewing suspects in connection to the offense (RA 7438).

Cardinal Points of Criminal Investigation

  • Tools of Criminal Investigation include Information (knowledge collected from records & people) including Regular Source, Cultivated Sources, and Grapevine Sources (information from criminals).
  • Methods of identification may include verbal descriptions, photographic records, and sketches.
  • Interviewing involves open-ended conversation( interviewing), and can also involve harsh questioning (interrogating) of suspects.
  • Technical and Legal aspects of witnesses involve considerations of credibility, appropriate knowledge; skill, experience or training; and the general rule is that conclusions by witnesses are not admissible except in limited cases.
  • Evidence may contain confessions/admissions, circumstantial evidence, and physical evidence.
  • Crime scene analysis includes appropriate procedures regarding approach, security, & recording.
  • The chain of custody of evidence from collection to disposition.
  • Principles of Intelligence may include the cycle of intelligence (planning, gathering, processing, dissemination), and the essential aspects of objectivity, interdependence, continuity, communication, usefulness & timeliness, and security.
  • Methods of surveillance include loose, close & combination surveillance.
  • Criminal investigations concern the collection of facts to identify, locate, & provide evidence of the offender's guilt.
  • Specialized investigations deal with special types of crimes/offenses.
  • Methods of identification include confessions, admissions from witnesses, and the use of photographs/sketches.
  • Forensic examination is important for all cases that involve violence or death.
  • Criminal investigation typically covers violence, assault, and other crimes involving injury or loss of life.
  • Types of evidence useful in criminal cases include testimonial, documentary, and physical.
  • Wound examination is a significant aspect of criminal cases regarding injury.
  • Crimes against persons can lead to destruction of life or physical injuries, encompassing various offenses like murder, homicide, infanticide, abortion, etc..
  • Legal medicine involves application of medical knowledge to legal issues, assessing death and injuries.
  • Medico-legal aspects of death encompass various types of death (sociological, psychic, biologic, physiologic).
  • Detection of death includes signs like cessation of respiration, cessation of heart beat, cooling of the body, and loss of responsiveness.
  • Wounds and injuries encompass classifications and methods of attack.
  • Poison is defined by its effects on the body and how a method of ingestion produces harm.

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Explore essential steps for understanding crime scenes. Topics include evidence handling, chain of custody importance, and scene reconstruction. Learn the crucial need for appropriate crime scene investigations.

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