Crime Scene Investigation: Evidence Rules

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Questions and Answers

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

To support a successful prosecution

To understand what happened at the crime scene (correct)

To collect fingerprints and photographs

To prove the suspect's guilt

What is the main purpose of the Florida Evidence Code?

To provide guidelines for crime scene investigation

To outline the rules and concepts of evidence (correct)

To establish the legal distinction between evidence and proof

To determine appropriate sentences for criminal cases

What is the role of evidence in court, according to LE911.1?

To prove the suspect's guilt

To support or undermine other evidence

To help determine an appropriate sentence

All of the above (correct)

What type of evidence proves a fact without an inference or presumption?

Direct evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is a crime scene defined as?

A location, person, place, or object associated with criminal behaviors Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between evidence and proof?

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

What is an example of physical evidence that may be collected at a crime scene?

Fingerprints Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of following the rules and concepts of evidence?

To complete the investigation successfully Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of photographing a crime scene?

To allow people who were not present at the original scene to gather information Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of photography when documenting a crime scene?

Overall, midrange, and then close-up photographs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of including a scale or identifier in close-up photographs?

To provide a form of measurement Signup and view all the answers

What type of shot would show the blood on the sofa in a crime scene?

Close-up photograph Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of the overall photographs in crime scene documentation?

To provide a general view of the crime scene Signup and view all the answers

When documenting a crime scene, what type of shots should be taken at the perimeter of the scene?

Overall shots Signup and view all the answers

Why are photographs or sketches important for victims and witnesses?

To help them refresh their memory as time goes by Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct sequence of events when documenting a crime scene?

Secure the scene, interview witnesses, and then photograph Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration when determining the method of protecting evidence at a crime scene?

The potential threats to the evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of instructing people to move behind the crime scene tape?

To prevent contamination of evidence Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can an officer enter private property without a search warrant?

In cases of exigent circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of designating a point of entry and exit at a crime scene?

To prevent contamination of evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the officer assigned to maintain a crime scene log?

To control access to the crime scene Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of determining the nature of the crime scene?

To decide how to protect the evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the legal authority to secure a crime scene based on?

Exigent circumstances or a search warrant Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration when determining how to protect biological evidence at an outdoor crime scene?

The potential threats to the evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of a person's modus operandi?

It is a repetitive pattern of behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of analyzing crime patterns in an investigation?

It helps to narrow down the list of potential suspects Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of people who commit crimes with a similar modus operandi?

They are creatures of habit Signup and view all the answers

What should you review to prepare for a court proceeding?

The complete case file, including all reports, photos, videos, evidence, and the chain of custody Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary way to develop potential suspects based on crime patterns?

By reviewing reports of crimes similar to the crime being investigated Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with witness information?

Give it to the state attorney's office Signup and view all the answers

What can be determined by analyzing a suspect's modus operandi?

The suspect's motivation, skill, and experience Signup and view all the answers

Why should you assume that the defense attorney knows everything you know?

Because it helps you prepare for cross-examination Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of identifying similarities in crime patterns?

It helps to narrow down the list of potential suspects Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when the prosecutor asks you to review relevant details and major facts?

Go over the details and facts one more time Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of an analyst in a follow-up investigation?

To review reports of similar crimes and identify patterns Signup and view all the answers

Why should you never take a case lightly?

Because the case may be complex and require thorough preparation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using a team approach in a follow-up investigation?

It helps to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the crime Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of checking in with the prosecutor?

To give the prosecutor time to address last-minute concerns Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when testifying?

Answer questions from memory, and refer to reports only for specific details and with permission Signup and view all the answers

Where may giving testimony take place?

In an attorney's office, in the judge's chambers, or on the witness stand Signup and view all the answers

When should you sketch the crime scene?

After photographing the scene and before detailed work Signup and view all the answers

What information should you write on a piece of paper or whiteboard before photographing or sketching a crime scene or person?

Location, date, time, and officer's name Signup and view all the answers

Why are sketches useful in a crime scene investigation?

They show positions of objects in relation to one another that are not easily visible in photographs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of documenting where you recovered evidence in the scene?

To show the location of evidence in relation to other objects Signup and view all the answers

When can you use sketches during an interview with witnesses, victims, or suspects?

At any time during the investigation Signup and view all the answers

What should you include in your report regarding photographs or sketches?

Indication that you photographed or sketched the crime scene or person Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to indicate in your report that you photographed or sketched the crime scene or person?

To establish that the photographs or sketches are true and accurate representations Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of wearing gloves when dusting for and lifting latent prints?

To avoid contaminating the area with your own fingerprints and DNA Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using sketches during an investigation?

They help to document the crime scene and reconstruct the incident Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to use powder sparingly when dusting for latent prints?

To avoid over-powdering the surface Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct way to apply the lifting tape when lifting a latent print?

Place the rolled end of the lifting tape just above the latent print, but keep it off the print Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of having an adequate supply of materials on hand for lifting latent prints?

To ensure you have what you need when you need it Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to avoid smudging or smearing existing latent prints when handling and packaging evidence?

To preserve the integrity of the print Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of lightly brushing the powder from side to side or swirling the brush on the target area?

To develop the latent print Signup and view all the answers

Why is it a good idea to get training in how to use latent fingerprint kits?

To gain confidence in lifting prints Signup and view all the answers

What is a common mistake to avoid when lifting latent prints?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a defense attorney's rapid-fire questioning?

To confuse you into giving inconsistent answers Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when a defense attorney mispronounces your name or title?

Politely correct them the first time it happens Signup and view all the answers

Why might a defense attorney try to lead you into saying you're an expert on a subject?

To create answers that favor the defense Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to handle a defense attorney's questions?

Ask the attorney to repeat the questions one at a time and take time to consider each question Signup and view all the answers

Why should you focus on the facts of the case when testifying?

To not let the attorney's statements become confusing or distracting Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a defense attorney's attempts to build rapport with you?

To get you to relax and let your guard down Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when a defense attorney asks you a leading question?

Stay alert and focus on the facts Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to remain calm when testifying?

To avoid getting confused or flustered Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of verifying a field contact's information?

To ensure the information is accurate and relevant to the case Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a field contact and a confidential source?

A field contact provides information out of civic duty, while a confidential source provides information primarily for personal benefit or advantage Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with information from a field contact that is substantial?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a confidential source and a documented confidential informant?

A documented confidential informant is recruited and managed by an officer, while a confidential source is not Signup and view all the answers

Why should you not promise a field contact or a confidential source any type of reward?

Because it may cause the contact to embellish or provide false information Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of special training for officers who work with confidential informants?

To ensure the safety of the confidential informant and law enforcement officers Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with information from a field contact that may be valuable to another ongoing investigation?

Forward it to the appropriate department within your agency Signup and view all the answers

Why should you document information from a field contact in your field notes?

To meet the requirements of chapter 119, F.S. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to separate victims, witnesses, and suspects during an investigation?

To prevent them from exchanging false information Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a suspect or another witness tries to influence a witness's statement?

Remove them from the scene Signup and view all the answers

When should you interview an injured person who is suffering from physical or mental trauma?

When they have recovered from their trauma Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain visual contact with victims, witnesses, and suspects?

For safety reasons Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a family member is involved in a crisis and you need to separate them?

Use your best judgment and react with empathy Signup and view all the answers

What type of questions should you ask an injured person when providing emergency first aid?

Direct, fundamental questions about the incident Signup and view all the answers

Why should you avoid separating family members in certain situations, such as child abuse incidents?

Because it may make the situation worse Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if a witness or victim is intimidated by another person's presence while giving a statement?

Remove the intimidating person from the scene Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Crime Scene

A crime scene is the site or sites where a crime occurred, including an area or areas that contain evidence from the crime committed.
A crime scene can be a location, a person, a place, or an object associated with criminal behaviors.
Types of evidence at a crime scene include fingerprints, photographs, physical evidence, and eyewitness testimony.

Function of Evidence

Evidence is anything that tends to prove or disprove the existence of a fact.
Evidence has three basic functions when offered in court:
- To prove or disprove a crime
- To support or undermine other evidence
- To help determine an appropriate sentence

Types of Evidence

There are two broad types of evidence: direct and indirect (or circumstantial).
Direct evidence proves a fact without an inference or presumption and which, if true in itself, conclusively establishes that fact.
Recognizing threats to the evidence will determine the appropriate method of protection.
Protecting evidence from weather elements such as rain, hail, lightning, or wind is crucial in outdoor crime scenes.

Securing the Crime Scene

Determine if the location is public or private property.
Public property is for the use and enjoyment of the public and is open to the public.
Private property belongs to an individual and is not open to the public.
An officer has permission to enter private property based on exigent circumstances to conduct a sweep for potential suspects, to provide first aid, or if there is an indication that evidence will be lost, destroyed, or removed prior to obtaining a search warrant or consent to search.

Documenting the Crime Scene

Photographing the crime scene is the first step in documenting the scene.
Photographing allows people who were not present at the original scene to gather information and visualize how the crime scene looked on the day of response.
Photographs or sketches also help victims and witnesses refresh their memory as time goes by.
Crime scene photography moves from general to specific, taking overall, midrange, and then close-up photographs.
Close-up shots show the details of a specific item of evidence and must include a scale or identifier.

Gather Information on an Unknown Suspect

Modus operandi (MO) refers to how someone does something, usually repetitive in nature.
People are creatures of habit, and MO may show up in criminal activity.
A person's MO may include repeatedly using the same method of entry when committing burglaries, stealing similar types of items, choosing victims who share similar characteristics, or committing their crimes with similar locations, days, and times.
Developing an unknown suspect takes a team approach, often with the help of an outside agency or an analyst.

Crime Patterns

Develop potential suspects by locating reports of crimes similar to the crime being investigated.
Review reports for similarities, such as type of crime scene, time, and day of occurrences, methods and points of entry and exit, and evidence found at the scenes.

Preparing for Testimony

Review reports created, as well as the complete case file, including all other reports, photos, videos, evidence, and the chain of custody.
Discuss the case with the state attorney's office to identify and understand areas of weakness relevant to testimony and to clarify any concerns the state attorney may have.
Identify witness information and give it to the state attorney's office.
Be prepared to answer questions on all relevant facts and to testify from memory.
Assume that the defense attorney knows everything you know.
Always prepare for testimony the same way, reviewing all case documentation, discussing the case with the prosecutor, and following the guidelines for giving an effective testimony.

Witness Interviews and Statements

Separating witnesses and victims during a crisis may be necessary to ensure accurate statements, but use judgment and empathy when assessing the need for separation.
Remove suspects or other witnesses who attempt to influence or intimidate others from giving false information.
Maintain visual contact with victims, witnesses, and suspects for safety reasons.
If an interviewee is suffering from physical or mental trauma, consider interviewing them later when they have recovered.

Injured People and First Aid

Responding officers may need to provide first aid to injured people at the scene.
Consider asking direct, fundamental questions about the injury while providing emergency first aid, such as:
- Who hit you?
- What did the suspect use to hit you?
- Where were you hit?
- Where were you standing when you were hit?
- When were you hit?
- How were you hit?
- Why were you hit?

Documenting Evidence

Document photographs and sketches of the crime scene or person by writing the following information on a piece of paper or whiteboard:
- Case number
- Location
- Date and time
- Officer's name
Include this information in the report, and be able to testify that the photographs or sketch are true and accurate representations of the crime scene or person.

Crime Scene Sketching

Sketch the crime scene after photographing the scene and before beginning detailed work.
Sketches supplement field notes and photographs, and aid in the reconstruction, explanation, and permanent recording of an incident.
Use sketches to document where evidence was recovered and to correlate testimony during interviews with witnesses, victims, and suspects.

Latent Fingerprint Collection

Use a basic latent fingerprint kit that includes gloves, black and light gray powder, a brush, lifting tape, and fingerprint cards.
Follow guidelines when dusting for and lifting latent prints, including:
- Wearing gloves to avoid contaminating the area with your own fingerprints and DNA.
- Holding a flashlight at an angle to look for obvious signs of a latent print.
- Using a brush and powder sparingly to avoid smudging or smearing existing latent prints.

Relationships and Information Sources

Recognize the importance of building relationships with sources of information, such as field contacts and confidential sources.
Verify field contact information using known case facts or public records, and document the information in field notes.
Differentiate between field contacts and confidential sources, and understand the roles of each in providing information.

Testifying in Court

Techniques for testifying in court include:
- Pausing and staying calm when asked questions.
- Asking the attorney to repeat questions one at a time and taking time to consider each question.
- Staying alert and controlling your ego to avoid being led into giving answers that favor the defense.
- Politely correcting the defense attorney if they mispronounce your name, title, or rank.

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Description

Learn about the rules and concepts of evidence collection at a crime scene and how to apply them to support a successful prosecution. Covers types of evidence to look for.