Crime Scene Investigation Basics
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Crime Scene Investigation Basics

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Questions and Answers

A quick scan of the crime scene is performed first to mark evidence with evidence markers.

True

Unauthorized persons should have unrestricted access to the crime scene.

False

Witnesses should be allowed to communicate with one another during the investigation.

False

Priority should be given to arresting the perpetrator before obtaining medical assistance.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Photographs are taken after the crime scene has been fully sketched by the investigator.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

The rough sketch created by the crime scene investigator should not need to align with the photographs.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

A search pattern is declared during the detailed search of the crime scene to ensure thoroughness.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

New evidence found during the search is marked, photographed, and documented in the sketch.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Physical evidence can only include large objects and not microscopic traces.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Evidence should be handled separately to prevent cross contamination.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

The chain of custody is essential for protecting evidence from the crime scene to the laboratory.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Evidence tape does not require the signature of the collecting officer.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Investigator must document the location and appearance of evidence before it is moved.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

A bindle is used for securing larger pieces of evidence.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Once evidence is collected, it can be immediately discarded.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Packaging evidence in appropriate materials is optional and not strictly regulated.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Evidence can be used to convict, exonerate, or prove a defendant to be not guilty of an accused crime.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

The chain of custody refers to the sequence of custody, control, and analysis of a person's personal belongings.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Only detectives are responsible for documenting the crime scene in detail and collecting evidence.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

There are a total of five steps that crime scene investigators follow during an investigation.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

First responders can include law enforcement officials, paramedics, and fire fighters.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Forensic science begins only after physical evidence is collected at the crime scene.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

One of the steps of crime scene investigation is to secure and collect evidence while preserving its integrity.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

First responders at a crime scene include only medical examiners and coroners.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of first responders at a crime scene?

<p>First responders preserve and protect the crime scene.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to maintain the integrity of evidence during a crime scene investigation?

<p>Maintaining integrity ensures the evidence can be reliably used in court.</p> Signup and view all the answers

List the seven overall steps followed in a crime scene investigation.

<p>Securing the Scene, Separating Witnesses, Scanning the Scene, Seeing the Scene, Sketching the Scene, Searching the Scene, Securing and Collecting Evidence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the chain of custody in forensic investigations?

<p>The chain of custody documents the transfer and handling of evidence to prevent contamination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What documentation is typically performed during the 'Seeing the Scene' step of CSI?

<p>Photographs and notes are taken to capture the crime scene's condition.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the roles at a crime scene with their descriptions:

<p>First responders = Preserve and protect the crime scene Crime scene investigators = Document scene and collect evidence Medical examiners = Determine cause of death Detectives = Look for leads and interview witnesses</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the steps of crime scene investigation with their functions:

<p>Securing the Scene = Establishing boundaries to protect evidence Separating Witnesses = Preventing communication between potential witnesses Sketching the Scene = Creating a visual representation of the scene Searching the Scene = Conducting a detailed examination for evidence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the evidence handling concepts with their definitions:

<p>Chain of custody = Chronological documentation of evidence handling Integrity of evidence = Maintaining the original state of the evidence Physical evidence = Tangible objects or items collected from the scene Evidence markers = Tools used to designate the location of evidence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the purpose of forensic science with its roles:

<p>Convicting offenders = Using evidence to establish guilt Exonerating the innocent = Proving a defendant is not guilty Investigating crime scenes = Collecting and analyzing evidence Collaborating with specialists = Enhancing evidence through expert analysis</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the types of evidence with examples:

<p>Trace evidence = Hair or fiber found on a surface Biological evidence = Blood or saliva samples Physical evidence = Weapons or tools left at a scene Electronic evidence = Digital files or recordings</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following steps in crime scene investigation with their corresponding descriptions:

<p>Securing the crime scene = Using ropes or barricades to prevent unauthorized access Scanning the crime scene = Quickly marking evidence with evidence markers Seeing the crime scene = Photographing evidence that has been marked Sketching the scene = Creating a rough diagram of the crime scene and evidence locations</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following tasks with their roles during crime scene investigation:

<p>First responders = To provide medical assistance and secure the scene Investigators = To document evidence and witness accounts Forensic photographers = To capture images of marked evidence Witnesses = To provide accounts of what they observed at the scene</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following actions with their purposes in the crime scene investigation process:

<p>Separating the witnesses = Avoiding influence between different accounts Documenting entries = Keeping records of individuals' access to the scene Searching the scene = Ensuring thorough examination for all evidence Marking evidence = Indicating the location of discovered evidence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following evidence handling protocols with their correct practices:

<p>Evidence markers = Used to indicate the location of evidence Crime scene logs = Documenting who enters and exits the scene Photography = Capturing visual records of the crime scene Sketching = Providing a visual representation of evidence locations</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms related to crime scene investigation with their definitions:

<p>Chain of custody = The process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence Rough sketch = An initial drawing depicting the arrangement of evidence Detailed search = A thorough examination of the crime scene to find all evidence Evidence markers = Small signs used to label specific pieces of evidence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Securing the Crime Scene

  • First responders secure the scene to preserve evidence and maintain the integrity of the investigation. They prioritize medical assistance for any victims and are responsible for arresting the perpetrator if they are present.

  • Unauthorized individuals are excluded from entering the scene to prevent contamination of potential evidence. This is typically done using physical barriers such as ropes, barricades, and the presence of law enforcement or security personnel as guards.

  • Everyone who enters the crime scene is meticulously documented, including recording the date and time of entry and exit. This ensures that there is a clear record of who had access to the scene, which can be vital for the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.

  • First responders secure the scene, prioritize medical assistance and arrest the perpetrator.

  • Unauthorized individuals are excluded from the scene using ropes, barricades, and guards.

  • Everyone entering the scene is documented, including date and time of entry and exit.

Separating Witnesses

  • Witnesses are separated to avoid collaboration and influence.
  • Investigators compare witness accounts to identify inconsistencies.
  • Common questions for witnesses include observations, location during observation, and identification of other individuals.

Scanning the Scene

  • A quick scan of the scene allows for initial documentation of evidence.
  • Evidence is marked using evidence markers for later identification.
  • A more thorough search is conducted later.

Seeing the Scene

  • A trained photographer documents all marked evidence.
  • Photographs are taken every time new evidence is discovered.

Sketching the Scene

  • A rough sketch is created to depict scene dimensions and evidence location.
  • Sketches should align with photographs and evidence markers.

Searching the Scene

  • A detailed search is performed to locate all evidence.
  • A search pattern is established and investigators work together to ensure a complete search.
  • New evidence is marked, photographed, and documented in the sketch.

Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • Evidence encompasses objects ranging from large items to microscopic traces.
  • Evidence is collected in a way that preserves its original state and integrity.
  • Items are handled carefully and packaged separately to prevent cross-contamination.

Handling and Processing Evidence

  • Evidence is handled with disposable gloves to avoid contamination.
  • Evidence remains untouched until documentation (notes, sketches, photographs) is completed.
  • A variety of packaging materials and tools are used to accommodate different types of evidence.

Chain of Custody

  • Chain of custody protects evidence from the crime scene to the laboratory.
  • Evidence is packaged using appropriate materials and sealed with evidence tape.
  • The collecting officer signs the evidence tape, and the seal must never be broken.
  • If processing is necessary, removal is done without puncturing the signed evidence label.
  • A chain of custody log records everyone who handles the evidence.

Bindles

  • Tiny evidence is secured using a bindle (druggist’s fold).
  • Bindles prevent the loss of small evidence.

Next Steps

  • Collected evidence is sent to a crime laboratory for further analysis.

Crime Scene

  • The investigation process is a critical component in the criminal justice system, aimed at uncovering the facts surrounding the crime. Investigators employ various techniques such as interviews, forensic analysis, and evidence collection to piece together what happened.

  • The first step in an investigation often involves determining the type of crime that has occurred, which in turn guides the investigative methods and resources used.

  • Investigators work to build a timeline of events, identify witnesses, and analyze any physical evidence collected at the crime scene, including fingerprints, DNA, and surveillance footage.

  • Collaboration between different law enforcement agencies and specialized units, such as homicide or cybercrime divisions, may be necessary to effectively address complex cases.

  • Throughout the investigation, maintaining a clear chain of custody for evidence is crucial to ensure its admissibility in court. Additionally, investigators must be mindful of legal protocols and the rights of suspects throughout the process to uphold the integrity of the investigation and avoid potential legal challenges.

  • Ultimately, the goal of the investigation is to identify and apprehend the perpetrator, while simultaneously gathering sufficient evidence to support successful prosecution in the judicial system.

  • First responders (law enforcement, paramedics, fire fighters) must prioritize safety by providing medical assistance and arresting the perpetrator.

  • Once safety is ensured, the scene must be secured to prevent unauthorized access. This is achieved using ropes, barricades and security guards.

  • A crime scene log should record the identity of each person entering the scene, along with the time and date of entry and exit.

Crime Scene Investigation: Separating Witnesses

  • Separating witnesses is a key step to prevent collusion or influence.
  • Witnesses should not be allowed to communicate with each other, as this could affect their individual testimonies.
  • Standard questions include:
    • What did you see?
    • Where were you when you observed this?
    • Did you see anyone else?
    • Do you have any information that could be helpful?

Crime Scene Investigation: Scanning the Scene

  • Investigators and first responders perform a quick scan of the scene to identify and mark evidence with markers.
  • This initial scan allows for efficient documentation and evidence collection later.
  • A thorough search will be conducted later.

Crime Scene Investigation: Seeing the Scene

  • A trained forensic photographer captures images of the marked evidence.
  • New evidence requires additional photographs.
  • The procedures for crime scene photography will be discussed in a future lesson.

Crime Scene Investigation: Sketching the Scene

  • After photographing, investigators create rough sketches of the crime scene.
  • Sketches depict dimensions and exact locations of evidence, ensuring consistency with photographs.
  • Sketches and photographs should align with recorded evidence markers.
  • Crime scene sketches will be covered in more detail in a subsequent lesson.

Crime Scene Investigation: Searching the Scene

  • A detailed search is conducted using a predetermined search pattern.
  • Investigators collaborate to ensure the entire crime scene is examined.
  • If new evidence is found, it is marked, photographed, and documented in the sketch.
  • Search patterns will be explored in a later lesson.

Crime Scene Investigation: Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • All evidence, regardless of size, must be preserved in its original state and handled carefully.
  • Each item should be individually wrapped to avoid cross contamination.
  • Evidence collection extends beyond the crime scene, and can include analysis of the body during an autopsy.

Crime Scene Investigation: Chain of Custody

  • The chain of custody safeguards evidence, preventing changes from the crime scene to the lab.
  • Critical steps include:
    • Using appropriate packaging.
    • Sealing packaging with evidence tape.
    • Obtaining the collecting officer’s signature on the evidence tape.
    • Maintaining the seal’s integrity, only removing evidence without damaging labels.
    • Completing a chain of custody log.
    • Ensuring matching signatures on the log and evidence labels.
    • Maintaining a record of personnel who handled the evidence.

Crime Scene Investigation: Binding Evidence

  • A bindle, also known as a druggist’s fold, is used for securing extremely small pieces of evidence.
  • This technique helps prevent loss of important evidence.

Continued Investigation

  • Collected evidence is transported to a crime lab for further analysis.

Securing the Crime Scene

  • First responders must secure the crime scene, but prioritize medical assistance and arrest of the perpetrator.
  • Once safe, exclude unauthorized individuals from the scene, using ropes, barricades and guards.
  • Document everyone who enters and exits the scene, including time and date.

Separating Witnesses

  • Prevent witnesses from talking to each other.
  • Investigators compare accounts of the scene.
  • Standard questions include: What did you see? Where were you when you made the observation? Did you see anyone else? Do you have any information that may be helpful in our investigation?

Scanning the Scene

  • Officers conduct a quick scan and mark evidence with evidence markers.
  • This step allows for the recording of the scene quickly and efficiently.
  • A more thorough search is done later.

Seeing the Scene

  • A trained forensic photographer takes pictures of marked evidence.
  • Photographs are taken anytime new evidence is marked.

Sketching the Scene

  • A crime scene investigator sketches the scene with dimensions, location of evidence, and matching photographs and evidence markers.

Searching the Scene

  • Investigators conduct a detailed search using a pre-determined search pattern, ensuring no area is missed.
  • New evidence is marked, photographed, and documented in the sketch.

Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • All evidence, no matter the size, must be preserved in its original state.
  • Handle each item separately to avoid cross contamination.
  • Search for evidence is not limited to the scene (ex. Autopsy)

Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • Use disposable gloves to avoid tampering with evidence.
  • Evidence should remain unmoved until documented in notes, sketches, and photographs.
  • Investigators have an assortment of packaging materials and tools for various types of evidence.

Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • The chain of custody protects evidence from the scene to the lab.
  • Evidence is packaged using appropriate materials and sealed with signature-marked evidence tape.
  • The seal should never be broken. If processing is necessary, remove evidence without puncturing the signed evidence label.
  • Complete a chain of custody log with matching signatures from evidence labels.

Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • Evidence tape must be signed.
  • The chain of custody log travels with evidence and documents any contact with it.

Securing and Collecting Evidence

  • Bindles are used to secure tiny evidence.
  • Sometimes referred to as a "druggist's fold," a bindle prevents evidence loss.

Next Steps

  • Collected evidence is transferred to a crime lab for analysis.

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Description

Explore the fundamental principles of securing a crime scene. This quiz covers crucial steps such as establishing safety, managing witnesses, scanning for evidence, and documenting the scene through photographs and sketches. Test your knowledge on the procedures that ensure a thorough investigation.

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