Crime Scene Investigation Procedures
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of a statement of facts produced by SOCO?

  • To document the evidence collected at a crime scene (correct)
  • To inform the public about crime statistics
  • To summarize witness testimonies
  • To provide expert opinions on evidence
  • Which element is NOT typically included in a crime scene report?

  • Photographs of the crime scene
  • Location sketches
  • Details of witness interviews (correct)
  • Observations about local conditions
  • How is a crime scene report different from SOCO's statement of facts?

  • A crime scene report requires an opinion from the CSI.
  • A crime scene report is more technical and provides fewer details.
  • A crime scene report is only used for civil cases.
  • A crime scene report contains observations and the context of the scene. (correct)
  • What aspect of a crime scene report varies significantly between agencies?

    <p>The style and layout of the report (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is included as part of the observations in a crime scene report?

    <p>Environmental conditions like weather and light (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a statement produced by SOCO at a crime scene?

    <p>To record activities and evidence at the scene (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following must be included in a SOCO statement?

    <p>A signed declaration of the truthfulness of the contents (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the Criminal Procedures and Investigation Act (1996), what must both prosecution and defense disclose?

    <p>Any material that could undermine their case (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a SOCO include when describing their attendance at the crime scene?

    <p>Details of photographs taken and samples recovered (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what situation could the defense apply for a court order regarding material held by the prosecution?

    <p>To access information that could assist the defense’s case (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of logging every movement of evidence?

    <p>To maintain continuity of evidence and establish custody. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if the packaging of evidence is compromised?

    <p>No examination should take place. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following details is NOT essential on the evidence label?

    <p>Name of the police officer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What documentation method is NOT mentioned as an acceptable form for scene examination?

    <p>Typed reports on a computer. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key component of creating crime scene sketches?

    <p>Accurate measurements and dimensions of the scene. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered important to ensure that evidence remains secure during transport?

    <p>All edges of the packaging must be secured with tamper-proof tape. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be included when marking the location of seized items in a sketch?

    <p>Exact locations from which the items were recovered. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of evidence transportation is emphasized as crucial?

    <p>Signatures should indicate who has transported or examined the evidence. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for scene preservation in forensics?

    <p>To prevent the contamination of evidence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of establishing a Common Approach Path (CAP) at a crime scene?

    <p>To minimize the impact on evidence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is considered a safe distance for a vehicle cordon at a bombing scene?

    <p>300 meters (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a method of scene preservation?

    <p>Adding new evidence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the zoning of a crime scene help investigators to do?

    <p>Break down the scene into manageable sections for searching (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of using evidence markers at a crime scene?

    <p>To indicate locations of key pieces of evidence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it crucial to establish a systematic search pattern in a crime scene zone?

    <p>To ensure thoroughness and reliability in evidence collection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action when someone approaches a cordoned-off scene?

    <p>Strictly prohibit entry to maintain integrity of the scene (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential to include in a crime scene report?

    <p>Details of the crime incident (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is not a recommended detail for photographing a crime scene?

    <p>Time of day (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided when writing a crime scene report?

    <p>Including statistical information only (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of details about victims must be included in a crime scene report?

    <p>Details of the victims involved in the incident (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement regarding statements prepared for court is correct?

    <p>They must provide all details regarding what was observed and actions taken. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the purpose of a crime scene report?

    <p>An investigative tool for law enforcement purposes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical aspect of the analysis regarding actions taken by offenders?

    <p>Items abandoned by the offender (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of a detail that must be recorded about the crime scene?

    <p>Point and method of entry to the scene (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using Electrostatic Document Examination (ESDA)?

    <p>To reveal indented writing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method can be used to reveal invisible ink?

    <p>Gentle heating or ultraviolet fluorescence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'printer steganography' refer to?

    <p>The analysis of yellow dot patterns to trace printers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the MG21 document specifically relate to?

    <p>Submission of forensic evidence for analysis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might an organization's General Examination Record (GER) differ from others?

    <p>They are tailored to fit the needs of different forensic service providers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about fingerprints is true?

    <p>Bertillonage was proposed as a means of identifying individuals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the limitations of graphology as proposed in the 1600s?

    <p>It linked writing style to personality traits but lacked scientific evidence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information might be included in a General Examination Record (GER)?

    <p>Descriptions and sketches of evidence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following methods helps to determine the order of ink deposition?

    <p>Microscopy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what year was Bertillonage proposed as a method of identification?

    <p>1883 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could be a common use for invisible ink throughout history?

    <p>Messages between spies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be determined by analyzing printed text closely?

    <p>The type of printer used (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What feature of ink can help in identifying printers?

    <p>Colors within black ink can vary (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following tools plays a role in advanced analysis of documents?

    <p>SIMS (Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Scene Preservation

    The process of preventing the loss, destruction, contamination, or movement of evidence at a crime scene.

    Common Approach Path (CAP)

    A designated path that everyone entering a crime scene must follow to minimize impact on evidence.

    Stepping Plates

    Protective plates placed on the ground to prevent contamination by footprints.

    Evidence Markers

    Markers used to identify and mark the location of evidence at a crime scene.

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    Evidence Covers

    Covers used to protect evidence from the elements and contamination.

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    Zoning a Crime Scene

    Dividing a crime scene into distinct areas to facilitate a systematic search for evidence.

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    Zone Search

    A method of searching a crime scene zone by following a specific pattern to ensure thoroughness.

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    Searching a Crime Scene

    The process of carefully examining each zone of a crime scene for evidence before moving on to the next.

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    Crime Scene Report

    A detailed record of actions, observations, information, and evidence recovered at a crime scene.

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    Datum Point

    The point in time when the crime scene was first attended.

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    Crime Scene Photographs

    A collection of photographs taken at a crime scene, including evidence found.

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    Location Sketch

    A visual representation of the crime scene, including key features and measurements.

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    SOCO Statement of Facts

    A statement of facts for court, indicating what evidence has been collected and its unique reference numbers/descriptions.

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    Crime Scene Sketch

    A detailed, accurate drawing of the crime scene including measurements and the positions of all items of evidence.

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    What is the purpose of the evidence logbook?

    Ensure the chain of custody is maintained by documenting every movement of evidence.

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    Documenting evidence location

    The process of recording the location from where evidence was collected.

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    ENFSI Best Practice

    A standard of practice for crime scene investigations developed by the European Network of Forensic Science Investigators.

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    Properly sealing evidence

    Packaging evidence must be tamper-proof, sealed on all sides, labelled and initialled.

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    Signatures on evidence

    Signatures and initials on evidence packages to indicate handling and examination.

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    What is included on an evidence label?

    Record all relevant details on evidence labels.

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    Comprehensive Documentation

    The process of documenting the crime scene thoroughly using various methods.

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    Modus Operandi

    Detailed account of the actions and movements of the perpetrator, including the point of entry, items moved or taken, and objects left behind.

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    Photo Log

    A log meticulously documenting each photograph taken at the crime scene, including technical details like shutter speed, aperture, and camera distance.

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    CSI Statement

    A written statement summarizing the actions and observations of the CSI team, including evidence collected, investigative procedures, and conclusions drawn.

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    First Officer Statement

    A written statement outlining the observations and actions of the first responders to the crime scene, including initial assessments and actions taken.

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    Crime Scene Report: Primary Purpose

    The primary purpose of a crime scene report is to aid in the investigation, not solely to gather statistical data.

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    Statements: Purpose and Content

    Statements should be prepared in detail, replacing the need for court attendance. They should include all details about the crime scene, evidence, and the CSI's role.

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    Crime Scene Report: Integrity

    The information gathered and recorded in a crime scene report must serve the ongoing investigation and should never be compromised for statistical reporting.

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    SOCO Statement

    A written record of a Scene of Crime Officer's (SOCO) actions at a crime scene, which can be presented in court.

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    Disclosure of Evidence

    A legal requirement that all relevant evidence, including SOCO statements, must be disclosed to both the prosecution and defense teams.

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    SOCO Statement - Qualification Details

    A formal document outlining a SOCO's qualifications and experience, including their employment details.

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    SOCO Statement - Details of Crime Scene Examination

    A written record of a SOCO's actions at a crime scene, including the location, date, time, photographs taken, samples collected, and any examination conducted.

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    SOCO Statement - Evidence Handling

    The process of recording the disposition of evidence collected at a crime scene, indicating where it was stored and how it was handled.

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    Electrostatic Document Examination (ESDA)

    A technique that uses electrostatic charges to reveal indented writing on a document. This method is particularly useful for uncovering writing that is hidden beneath visible text or other marks.

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    Secret Writing

    A type of secret writing where intentional marks are used to convey a hidden message. This can be done using invisible ink or special writing techniques.

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    Order of Ink Deposition

    A method to determine the order in which inks were applied on a document. This is done by analyzing the inks under a microscope and examining how they interact and overlap.

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    Printer Identification

    The use of specialized techniques to link a printed document to a specific printer. Forensic scientists can analyze the pattern of ink dots, toner distribution, and other details to determine the origin of a printed document.

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    Request for Analysis Form

    A form used by police to document when evidence is submitted to a forensic laboratory. It provides details about the crime, the evidence itself, and the people involved in the case.

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    General Examination Record (GER)

    A form used by forensic examiners to document their examination of evidence. It includes details about the evidence, the analysis conducted, and the findings of the examination.

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    Bertillonage

    A method of identification based on body measurements, particularly bone measurements. This system was introduced in 1883 by Alphonse Bertillon and was used to differentiate individuals based on physical characteristics.

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    Finger Marks

    Fingerprints that are accidentally left at a crime scene. This is usually done in an unconscious manner as people touch surfaces without realizing they are leaving their prints.

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    Graphology

    The study of handwriting to try to determine the writer’s personality, character, or other traits. It has limited scientific support and is not widely regarded as a valid forensic technique.

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    Printer Steganography

    A technique that uses the analysis of yellow dot patterns left by color printers to trace the specific printer that produced a document.

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    Study Notes

    Week 1 - Introduction and Evidence

    • Direct evidence establishes facts (eyewitness testimony or confessions).
    • Circumstantial evidence requires interpretation; most evidence falls into this category.
    • Locard's exchange principle: every contact leaves a trace.
    • Eye witness testimony has limitations, such as intentional blindness and change blindness.
    • The role of forensic science involves:
      • Determining if a crime has been committed (scientific examination of evidence).
      • Identifying the responsible party (fingerprints, footmarks, DNA is used).
      • Assessing if a suspect is responsible (corroborating evidence).
      • Determining if prosecution is supported (investigative evidence is examined by CPS to determine if prosecution is successful).

    Week 2 - Crime Scenes

    • Crime scene: location of an illegal act; where most physical evidence is retrieved.
    • Crime scene investigations are conducted by trained law enforcement personnel (SOCOs, CSIs) or forensic scientists (laboratory-based).
    • Primary crime scene is where the crime occurred.
    • Secondary crime scenes are related to the crime but not the location of the crime.

    Week 3 - Documenting a Scene

    • CSI job number, initials of person who recovered sample and the recovery sequence number; are logged to maintain continuity of evidence,
    • Details of every person who moved the evidence from scene to lab are recorded to ensure continuity of evidence,
    • Scene must be photographed; documenting the scene, and logging the actions and evidence.

    Week 4 - Documents, Fraud and Forgery

    • Documents can contain information in a superficial or a deeper level.
    • Examination of a document is used to:
      • Demonstrate its authenticity
      • Identify the author
      • Determine if the document has been altered
      • Extract contextual information (e.g., hidden messages).
    • Types of examinations include handwriting, typewriters, photocopiers, inks, papers, etc.

    Week 5 - Fingerprints

    • Fingerprints are collected under controlled conditions. Fingerprints are a method for identifying individuals.
    • Bertillonage (anthropometry) identified individuals using their bone measurements
    • Measurements for 11 body parts were recorded; using this technique identified people who had the same name but had different, unique fingerprints.

    Week 6 - Fingermarks

    • Fingermarks are traces left by contact between fingers and surfaces.
    • They are used for identification.
    • Fingermarks are formed by the interaction of a finger and a surface.
    • Types of fingermarks include latent, patent, negative, plastic, and exemplar.
    • Surface and environmental exposure conditions must be considered when developing a fingermark.

    Week 7 - Trace Evidence

    • Fingerprints are still a common method of identification by police.
    • Fingerprints can be used to check on the identity of a suspect.
    • Fingerprints can be matched with a database.
    • Fingerprints can be used to establish whether someone was at a crime scene or handled an object.
    • Taking the analysis account of the surface and environmental exposure to the fingerprints.

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    Description

    This quiz explores the essential elements of crime scene reporting and the role of the Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO). Test your knowledge on the differences between SOCO's statements and overall crime scene reports, including legal obligations under the Criminal Procedures and Investigation Act (1996). Understand what is typically included in these documents and the variations across agencies.

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