Crime Scene Investigation: Evidence Rules and Concepts

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Questions and Answers

What is the recommended way to apply the lifting tape?

Start from the tabbed end and smooth towards the rolled end (correct)

Start from the rolled end and smooth towards the tabbed end

Apply the tape from the edges inwards

Apply the tape from the center outwards

Why is it important to lift the lifting tape containing the developed prints slowly?

To ensure the tape sticks to the print properly

To prevent the tape from tearing

To allow for better visualization of the print

To avoid touching the tape to another surface (correct)

What information should be recorded on the back of the fingerprint print card?

The date, case number, and the name of the suspect

The date, case number, and location within the crime scene (correct)

Only the date and case number

The date, case number, and the type of crime committed

What is the purpose of taking elimination prints?

To eliminate the prints of non-suspects from the investigation Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to follow agency policies and procedures when handling firearms evidence?

To prevent contamination of the evidence with fingerprints and DNA Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to avoid damaging the print when placing it on the fingerprint card?

Place the print on the card carefully Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method for submitting latent print cards as evidence?

Follow agency policies and procedures Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of applying PPE when handling firearms evidence?

To prevent contamination of the evidence with fingerprints and DNA Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of collecting evidence at a crime scene?

To support a successful prosecution Signup and view all the answers

What does the Florida Evidence Code provide?

The basic concepts and rules of evidence that may be used in a criminal or civil proceeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between evidence and proof?

Evidence is information, while proof is the effect produced by that information Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of direct evidence in court?

To prove a fact without an inference or presumption Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of making sure that evidence is collected in a correct and timely way?

To help officers understand what happened at the crime scene Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of indirect evidence?

Circumstantial evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of evidence in court?

To prove or disprove a crime, to support or undermine other evidence, and to help determine an appropriate sentence Signup and view all the answers

What is a crime scene?

A site or sites where a crime occurred, including an area or areas that contain evidence from the crime committed Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for using PPE when encountering fentanyl or carfentanil?

To prevent absorption through mucous membranes Signup and view all the answers

When collecting sharp objects as drug paraphernalia, how should they be packaged?

In a puncture-proof package labeled with the words 'WARNING: SHARPS' Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended procedure when encountering a large amount of fentanyl or carfentanil powder?

Evacuate the area and call a hazmat team Signup and view all the answers

What is the antidote for opioid overdose?

Naloxone Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of marking the package as 'suspected fentanyl'?

To alert others to the potential danger Signup and view all the answers

What is a common sign of exposure to fentanyl or carfentanil?

Slowed pulse Signup and view all the answers

When should you conduct field-testing for fentanyl or carfentanil?

In an open environment with no wind Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action when you encounter a substance you suspect to be fentanyl or carfentanil?

Follow agency policies and procedures for field-testing, collecting, packaging, and transporting Signup and view all the answers

What is a good source of information regarding juvenile offenders?

School resource officers Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the initial report lacks adequate information about a suspect?

Re-interview the victim and any witnesses, and follow any leads of known associates or family members Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of conducting criminal justice database searches on DAVID and FCIC/NCIC?

To compile an accurate physical description of the suspect, address, or vehicle Signup and view all the answers

Why is it critical to maintain constant contact with dispatch when searching for a wanted person?

To ensure officer safety Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you are unable to arrest a wanted person?

Initiate a BOLO for the suspect Signup and view all the answers

Why may you need additional officers to arrest a suspect?

Depending on the threat level of the suspect and the location of the suspect Signup and view all the answers

What information can be compiled from criminal justice database searches on DAVID and FCIC/NCIC?

Suspect's physical description and criminal history Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of reviewing the initial incident report and victim and witness statements?

To get a physical description of the suspect Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about a burglary suspect who enters through small bathroom windows more than 5 feet high with no evidence of using a ladder?

The suspect is likely tall and thin or very agile. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when comparing the MO of a suspect?

Whether the crime was well-planned or impulsive. Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible clue to consider when investigating a crime scene?

The presence of unexplained items left at the scene. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential resource to use when investigating a known suspect or wanted person?

The Department of Correction's list of released inmates. Signup and view all the answers

What is the motivation of a crime if it is committed for fun or opportunity?

Thrill-seeking. Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when investigating a crime scene where a large and heavy item was stolen?

The suspect's vehicle type and size. Signup and view all the answers

What is a clue to consider when investigating a crime scene where entry was involved?

The type of tool used to gain entry. Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of gathering information from additional sources when searching for a known suspect or wanted person?

To gather information on the suspect's current whereabouts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Unit 1: The Crime Scene

A crime scene is a site or area where a crime occurred, including locations, people, places, or objects associated with criminal behavior.
Fingerprints, photographs, physical evidence, and eyewitness testimony are types of evidence that can be collected at a crime scene.
Evidence is anything that tends to prove or disprove the existence of a fact, and has three basic functions in court:
- To prove or disprove a crime
- To support or undermine other evidence
- To help determine an appropriate sentence
There are two broad types of evidence: direct and indirect (or circumstantial).

Evidence Collection

Direct evidence proves a fact without an inference or presumption, and conclusively establishes that fact.
When collecting latent prints, use lifting tape to develop the prints, and follow these steps:
- Smooth out the lifting tape to remove air bubbles
- Slowly lift the tape from the same end where you started rolling it
- Carefully place the tape on the fingerprint card
- Record the date, case number, location, and other required information on the back of the card
Elimination prints are used to distinguish between prints belonging to victims, witnesses, or suspects.

Firearms Evidence

When recovering a firearm or ammunition at a crime scene, follow agency policies and procedures for handling evidence, and use PPE to avoid contaminating the evidence.
When collecting drug paraphernalia, package sharp objects in puncture-proof packages and label them with a warning.

Hazardous Substances

Fentanyl and carfentanil are hazardous substances that can be absorbed through mucous membranes.
When encountering these substances, follow agency policies and procedures for field-testing, collecting, packaging, and transporting.
Use PPE, such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, and conduct field-testing in an open environment.
Signs of exposure to fentanyl or carfentanil include disorientation, difficulty speaking or walking, slowed pulse, nausea, and respiratory arrest.

Modus Operandi (MO)

MO is a latin term that refers to a person's habits or method of operation.
When comparing MO, consider the following factors:
- Was the crime well-planned or impulsive?
- Were tools used, and what kind?
- What property was stolen, and how much?
- What damage was done, and why?
- Was the suspect motivated by profit, revenge, or opportunity?

Unit 2: Follow-Up Investigation

Gathering Information on a Known Suspect

When searching for a known suspect or wanted person, gather information from additional sources, such as:
- Juvenile information through criminal justice agencies
- School resource officers
- Initial incident report, victim and witness statements
Review information from the initial incident report and conduct criminal justice database searches to compile an accurate physical description of the suspect.

Searching for a Known Suspect or Wanted Person

Conduct criminal justice database searches on DAVID and FCIC/NCIC to obtain the suspect's full name, race, gender, and date of birth.
Use this information to determine the suspect's likely location, including their residence, place of employment, or public or private locations they regularly visit.
Remember to obtain a warrant when necessary.

Maintaining Contact with Dispatch

Maintain constant contact with dispatch when physically searching for a wanted person, updating your location and status to maintain a high level of officer safety.
This is critical when searching for an armed suspect.
If unable to arrest the wanted person, initiate a BOLO for the suspect and pass any suspect information to the next shift and the appropriate department within your agency.

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Description

Learn how to apply evidence rules and concepts to a crime scene and follow-up investigation to support a successful prosecution. Explore the types of evidence to collect at a crime scene.