Crime Scene Unit 1: Evidence Rules

Questions and Answers

Who should be separated during a criminal investigation?

Victims, complainants, and witnesses.

What should officers do with injured people at the scene?

Provide first aid and ask direct questions about how their injury occurred.

Officers should document photographs or sketches of a crime scene and evidence on a person by noting the , , , and .

case number, location, date and time, officer's name

Which of the following search patterns is often used indoors?

Grid Signup and view all the answers

It is acceptable for a suspect to refuse being photographed for injuries.

False Signup and view all the answers

What types of evidence may be found at a crime scene?

Fingerprints, blood, hair, shoe impressions, tool marks, and electronic devices. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of photographing a crime scene?

To document the scene for court and aid in witness recollections. Signup and view all the answers

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

To prevent intimidation and ensure that their statements remain uncorrupted. Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do if a witness attempts to intimidate a victim during a statement?

They may need to remove the witness from the scene. Signup and view all the answers

In a child abuse incident, separation of certain family members may ______.

not be appropriate Signup and view all the answers

What is a crime scene?

A crime scene is the site or sites where a crime occurred, including areas that contain evidence. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are functions of evidence when offered in court? (Select all that apply)

To support or undermine other evidence Signup and view all the answers

Direct evidence requires an inference or presumption to establish a fact.

False Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes testimonial evidence from physical evidence?

Testimonial evidence is based on witness statements, while physical evidence consists of actual objects. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are considered types of evidence? (Select all that apply)

Testimonial Evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the legal distinction between evidence and proof?

Evidence is allowed in court; proof is the effect produced by that evidence. Signup and view all the answers

The admissibility of evidence protects the jurors from being misled.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for evidence to be admissible in court?

It must be relevant to the case Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if a witness is about to leave the crime scene?

Ask the witness to stay for interviewing. Signup and view all the answers

The Florida Evidence Code is found in chapter ______ of the Florida Statutes.

90 Signup and view all the answers

What must be documented in the crime scene log?

The name, rank, agency, time of entry or exit, and reason for being at the scene. Signup and view all the answers

PPE will protect the evidence from contamination.

True Signup and view all the answers

Change gloves between collecting each piece of evidence needing __________ analysis.

DNA Signup and view all the answers

What must be done with wet evidence such as items soaked with body fluids?

Air-dry and package in breathable containers, such as paper bags. Signup and view all the answers

What types of materials can trace evidence include?

Human hair, animal hair, textile fibers, fabric, rope, feathers, soil, glass, and building materials. Signup and view all the answers

Fibers cannot transfer between the clothes of the victim and the suspect.

False Signup and view all the answers

What type of evidence can indicate a relationship between the victim and suspect?

Fiber evidence from clothing. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a suspect or victim is near a piece of glass when it breaks?

Recognize those glass fragments may contaminate the person’s body. Signup and view all the answers

What are the common biological specimens found at a crime scene?

Blood, semen, or saliva. Signup and view all the answers

What is the process of analyzing trace evidence to determine a possible source called?

Microanalysis Signup and view all the answers

What type of evidence can be collected from a firearm?

Fingerprints, impression evidence, and DNA evidence. Signup and view all the answers

You can access the information in a seized cell phone without permission from the owner.

False Signup and view all the answers

Always properly secure a __________ before handling evidence.

firearm Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with a firearm at a crime scene?

Leave it in place for further investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of taking elimination prints?

To distinguish prints belonging to victims and witnesses from those of possible suspects. Signup and view all the answers

How can you determine the location of a suspect or wanted person?

Conduct criminal justice database searches on DAVID and FCIC/NCIC to gather personal details and compile a physical description. Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do when physically searching for a wanted person?

Maintain constant contact with dispatch and update your location and status. Signup and view all the answers

Identify additional resources when arresting a suspect or wanted person.

Canine units, aerial support, SWAT, or a fugitive taskforce. Signup and view all the answers

When is it appropriate to use a showup?

In immediate situations such as battery or robbery that allows for quick identification. Signup and view all the answers

What actions should you take before conducting a showup?

Interview victims or witnesses separately to gather descriptions and ensure they can accurately identify the suspect. Signup and view all the answers

What procedures should be followed when conducting a legally defensible showup?

Coordinate quickly, caution the witness, avoid giving feedback, and ensure proper lighting. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between a live lineup and a photo lineup?

A live lineup involves a group of people, while a photo lineup uses photographs. Signup and view all the answers

What should a photo array contain?

A minimum of six photographs, including at least five fillers and one photograph of the suspect. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a lineup administrator?

To conduct the lineup, ideally being independent of the investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What must witnesses acknowledge before reviewing a photo array?

They must acknowledge receiving instructions regarding the lineup. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of documentation during a lineup?

To record comments, selections, and refusals made by the witness. Signup and view all the answers

How should law enforcement officers prepare for courtroom testimony?

Review reports, discuss the case with relevant personnel, and understand all facts and evidence. Signup and view all the answers

Witnesses are allowed to communicate with jurors during a trial.

False Signup and view all the answers

What professional demeanor should an officer maintain while testifying?

Look professional, dress in uniform, use good posture, and convey confidence. Signup and view all the answers

When collecting drug paraphernalia, package sharp objects in ______ packages clearly labeled with the words 'WARNING: SHARPS.'

puncture-proof Signup and view all the answers

You can absorb fentanyl through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, or eyes.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you use when exposed to suspected fentanyl?

PPE such as gloves, long sleeves, a surgical or dust mask, and eye protection Signup and view all the answers

What is a sign of exposure to fentanyl?

Disorientation Signup and view all the answers

What is questioned document evidence?

Any document containing a mark to convey a message that requires examination. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you believe money found at a crime scene is counterfeit?

Document it and collect the money as evidence. Signup and view all the answers

When recovering evidence, begin a ______ to document everyone who handled the evidence.

chain of custody Signup and view all the answers

What does a chain of custody document provide?

Proof that the evidence submitted in court is the same as the evidence collected at the crime scene. Signup and view all the answers

What steps should you take to initiate a follow-up investigation?

Review the preliminary report, identify investigative leads, and gather information. Signup and view all the answers

What is modus operandi?

The mode of operating or method used by a suspect, usually repetitive in nature. Signup and view all the answers

What can crime patterns reveal?

The method of entry Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a field contact from a confidential source?

Confidential sources provide information for personal benefit. Signup and view all the answers

How can social media assist in gathering information about a suspect?

By providing insights into the suspect's activities, associations, and whereabouts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Evidence Rules and Concepts

Successful prosecution depends on correct application of evidence rules in crime scene investigations.
A crime scene contains all sites associated with a criminal act, potentially including various locations, persons, and objects.
Types of evidence may include fingerprints, photographs, physical evidence, and eyewitness testimony.
Evidence collected correctly and timely aids in understanding the crime.

Function of Evidence

Evidence serves three primary functions in court:
- Proving or disproving the occurrence of a crime.
- Supporting or undermining other evidence presented.
- Assisting in determining an appropriate sentence.

Types of Evidence

Evidence is categorized as direct or indirect (circumstantial):
- Direct Evidence: Confirms a fact without inference (e.g., eyewitness testimony, speed measurement).
- Indirect Evidence: Requires inference to establish facts (e.g., a witness seeing a defendant near a crime scene).
Evidence can be testimonial, physical, or documentary:
- Testimonial Evidence: Statements from witnesses, potentially less reliable due to malleability of human perception.
- Physical Evidence: Actual objects linked to the crime, crucial for prosecution as it can provide tangible proof.
- Documentary Evidence: Writings or printed materials that support or refute case facts, such as medical records or bank statements.

Admissibility of Evidence

Evidence must meet legal requirements to be presented in court, needing to be relevant and reliable.
Factors influencing admissibility:
- Legally obtained and properly preserved evidence.
- Evidence must not cause unfair prejudice or confusion.
- Fruit of the Poisonous Tree Doctrine: Excludes evidence obtained through illegal means.
- Good-Faith Exception: Allows evidence from a flawed search warrant if believed to be valid at the time.

Privileged Communication

Certain communications are protected due to their confidential nature (e.g., between a counselor and victim or domestic violence advocate and victim). These cannot be disclosed without consent.

Securing and Protecting the Crime Scene

Initial responsibilities include securing, protecting, and preserving the crime scene from contamination.
Determining officer safety and victim/witness injuries is crucial upon arrival at the scene.
Establish a crime scene perimeter, ideally expanding rather than contracting, to safeguard evidence.
Maintain control by designating a single access point for authorized personnel and keeping unauthorized individuals away.

Managing Victims, Witnesses, and Suspects

Identifying all individuals at the scene is crucial, documenting their roles and contact information.
Keep victims, witnesses, and suspects separate to avoid coordinated accounts and maintain the integrity of statements.
Utilize controlled environments like police vehicles for witness separation if necessary.### Interview Techniques and Family Separation
Interviewees may attempt to protect suspects by diverting evidence or passing items like weapons.
Separating family members during a crisis should be approached with empathy; assess the need carefully.
In cases of child abuse, separating certain family members may be inappropriate.
Physical or mental trauma in interviewees requires rescheduling their interview for when they are better able to discuss the situation.
Always maintain visual contact with victims, witnesses, complainants, and suspects for safety reasons.

Handling Injured Victims

Ensure first aid is provided to injured individuals at the scene if non-life-threatening injuries are present.
Ask direct questions to victims about their injuries to gather information: who, what, where, when, how, and why.
Record detailed observations of the victim's injuries for future reports and testimonies.
Confirm that victim statements are consistent with observed injuries; note specific details about injury size, type, and location.
Inform victims to report significant changes in bruising for documentation purposes.
Document names of medical personnel assisting victims, as they may be called as witnesses.

Provide supervisors with critical information about the incident, including time, location, and nature of the event.
Share descriptions of evidence collected and property involved.
Include details about all individuals present (victims, witnesses, suspects) and any hazards or unique scene considerations.
Explain how the crime scene is being protected and any ongoing investigative plans.
Identify the public information officer managing media communication.

Crime Scene Documentation

Photographing the crime scene should occur prior to evidence collection to document its original state.
Capture a range of images: overall views, midrange, and close-ups to establish context and detail.
Maintain proper lighting and focus, considering the potential need for additional light sources for detailed photography.
Use a scale or identifier for close-up shots to provide context in size and detail.
Ensure that all photographs are free from distractions to maintain a clear focus on the evidence.

Sketching the Crime Scene

Sketching the scene should follow photography and precede detailed work; it complements documentation efforts.
Sketches illustrate evidence positions and assist in report writing and case investigations.
These visual aids can be used in witness interviews and included in official documentation for court.

Evidence Handling Procedures

Use systematic search patterns (grid, spiral, strip/line, zone/quadrant) based on the crime scene type to locate evidence effectively.
Recognize various types of physical evidence, including trace, biological, impression, firearms, electronic, and toxicological evidence, each requiring specific handling.
Always wear PPE to protect against exposure and contamination when collecting evidence.
Change gloves when switching between evidence types to maintain the integrity of DNA samples.

Types of Evidence

Trace Evidence: Includes hair, fibers, glass, and soil transferred between the victim and suspect.
Biological Evidence: Commonly consists of blood, saliva, and seminal fluids containing DNA.
Impression Evidence: Includes fingerprints, tire tracks, and shoe prints that can link suspects or victims to a crime scene.
Electronic Evidence: Involves digital devices that may contain critical information related to the crime.

Importance of Evidence Collection Techniques

Specific techniques for photographing and collecting frail or perishable evidence—like bruises or blood—are crucial to maintain its usability for analysis.
Understand that the presence and condition of evidence can change over time; immediate and thorough documentation is essential for legal proceedings.### Biological Evidence
Crime laboratory experts can analyze body fluids for DNA identification, crucial in sexual assault cases.
Semen evidence from sexual assaults and saliva from items like cigarette butts and drinking straws warrant examination.
Blood evidence can include pooled blood, stains on fabric, or samples collected from individuals post-incident.
Blood spatter analysis helps deduce the type of weapon used and the attacker’s size and movement.
DNA advancements allow identification even from brief contact objects; teeth may also serve as evidence.
Human skeletal remains must be reported to a supervisor for proper forensic examination.

Impression Evidence

Tool marks left by working edges of tools can identify suspect tools; avoid fitting tools into marks at the scene.
Broken or torn objects can provide evidence through fracture pattern analysis.
Impressions in mud or pliable materials can link suspects to crimes; casting and photographing impressions preserve evidence.
Bite marks can lead to suspect identification and often contain saliva for further analysis.

Fingerprint Evidence

Fingerprints can be collected from various surfaces; visible prints arise from foreign substances like ink or blood.
Patent prints (visible), plastic prints (molded), and latent prints (invisible) are essential forms of fingerprint evidence.
Effective latent print identification hinges on understanding suspect movement and touched surfaces.
Preserving latent prints is critical; environmental factors like rain may require immediate collection or protection.
Officers should use gloves, a flashlight, and appropriate tools when dusting for and lifting latent prints.

Collecting Latent Prints

Use a fingerprint kit that includes gloves, powder, lifting tape, and fingerprint cards to collect evidence.
Follow precise steps when lifting prints, such as applying lifting tape without trapping air or foreign matter.
Elimination prints help distinguish between background prints and those belonging to suspects or witnesses.

Firearms Evidence

Secure firearms safely as evidence; document manufacturer details and avoid inserting objects into the barrel.
Firearms and ammunition must be stored separately; check them against databases like FCIC/NCIC for legal status.
Do not remove embedded bullets; lab analysis can determine if a weapon fired them.

Electronic Evidence

Various electronic devices, such as cell phones and computers, may contain vital evidence; do not manipulate devices without proper authorization.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruling requires a search warrant to access cell phones, highlighting privacy concerns.
Always follow agency protocols regarding electronic evidence collection and storage.

Chemical or Toxicological Evidence

Chemistry labs analyze controlled substances; proper PPE is essential when collecting potential hazardous materials.
Be cautious with substances like fentanyl, which pose significant health risks; specific protocols must be followed when handling them.
Immediate response to exposure requires notifying relevant personnel and following decontamination procedures.

Questioned Document Evidence

Questioned documents must be analyzed for authenticity and alterations; they can also yield fingerprints and DNA.
Handle documents carefully to preserve their condition; analysis techniques include handwriting examination and ink comparison.

Chain of Custody

Initiate a chain of custody upon collecting evidence, documenting all handlers and modifications to maintain integrity for court.
Evidence tampering is a felony; accurate and thorough documentation is vital to establish the evidence's reliability in legal proceedings.

Follow-Up Investigation

A follow-up investigation builds on initial findings to confirm crimes and identify suspects; procedures vary based on agency policy.
Important tools include reviewing preliminary reports and leveraging leads, field contacts, and confidential informants.

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Description

This quiz focuses on Unit 1 of the Crime Scene curriculum, covering the essential rules and concepts of evidence collection at a crime scene. You'll learn about what types of evidence to look for and how to apply these rules to ensure a successful prosecution of criminal cases.

Crime Scene Unit 1: Evidence Rules

Questions and Answers

Who should be separated during a criminal investigation?

What should officers do with injured people at the scene?

Officers should document photographs or sketches of a crime scene and evidence on a person by noting the ______, ______, ______, and ______.

Which of the following search patterns is often used indoors?

It is acceptable for a suspect to refuse being photographed for injuries.

What types of evidence may be found at a crime scene?

What is the purpose of photographing a crime scene?

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

What should officers do if a witness attempts to intimidate a victim during a statement?

In a child abuse incident, separation of certain family members may ______.

What is a crime scene?

Which of the following are functions of evidence when offered in court? (Select all that apply)

Direct evidence requires an inference or presumption to establish a fact.

What distinguishes testimonial evidence from physical evidence?

Which of the following are considered types of evidence? (Select all that apply)

What is the legal distinction between evidence and proof?

The admissibility of evidence protects the jurors from being misled.

What is a requirement for evidence to be admissible in court?

What action should be taken if a witness is about to leave the crime scene?

The Florida Evidence Code is found in chapter ______ of the Florida Statutes.

What must be documented in the crime scene log?

PPE will protect the evidence from contamination.

Change gloves between collecting each piece of evidence needing __________ analysis.

What must be done with wet evidence such as items soaked with body fluids?

What types of materials can trace evidence include?

Fibers cannot transfer between the clothes of the victim and the suspect.

What type of evidence can indicate a relationship between the victim and suspect?

What should be done if a suspect or victim is near a piece of glass when it breaks?

What are the common biological specimens found at a crime scene?

What is the process of analyzing trace evidence to determine a possible source called?

What type of evidence can be collected from a firearm?

You can access the information in a seized cell phone without permission from the owner.

Always properly secure a __________ before handling evidence.

What should you do with a firearm at a crime scene?

What is the purpose of taking elimination prints?

How can you determine the location of a suspect or wanted person?

What should an officer do when physically searching for a wanted person?

Identify additional resources when arresting a suspect or wanted person.

When is it appropriate to use a showup?

What actions should you take before conducting a showup?

What procedures should be followed when conducting a legally defensible showup?

What is the main difference between a live lineup and a photo lineup?

What should a photo array contain?

What is the role of a lineup administrator?

What must witnesses acknowledge before reviewing a photo array?

What is the purpose of documentation during a lineup?

How should law enforcement officers prepare for courtroom testimony?

Witnesses are allowed to communicate with jurors during a trial.

What professional demeanor should an officer maintain while testifying?

When collecting drug paraphernalia, package sharp objects in ______ packages clearly labeled with the words 'WARNING: SHARPS.'

You can absorb fentanyl through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, or eyes.

What should you use when exposed to suspected fentanyl?

What is a sign of exposure to fentanyl?

What is questioned document evidence?

What should you do if you believe money found at a crime scene is counterfeit?

When recovering evidence, begin a ______ to document everyone who handled the evidence.

What does a chain of custody document provide?

What steps should you take to initiate a follow-up investigation?

What is modus operandi?

What can crime patterns reveal?

What distinguishes a field contact from a confidential source?

How can social media assist in gathering information about a suspect?

Study Notes

Evidence Rules and Concepts

Function of Evidence

Types of Evidence

Admissibility of Evidence

Privileged Communication

Securing and Protecting the Crime Scene

Managing Victims, Witnesses, and Suspects

Handling Injured Victims

Sharing Information with Supervisors

Crime Scene Documentation

Sketching the Crime Scene

Evidence Handling Procedures

Types of Evidence

Importance of Evidence Collection Techniques

Impression Evidence

Officers should document photographs or sketches of a crime scene and evidence on a person by noting the , , , and .