Forensic Science Overview

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Questions and Answers

What should be done if the evidence is damp before repackaging?

Leave it to dry outside in the sunlight.

Dry it completely before repackaging. (correct)

Repackage it immediately to prevent further damage.

Sign the evidence label first before drying.

Which statement accurately describes how to handle the original packaging of evidence?

Use only one signature label to keep it simple.

Seal it with a regular adhesive tape for easier access later.

Reseal using thick sticky tape and place signature seals on the cut. (correct)

Repackage the evidence in a new container to ensure freshness.

Which of the following actions could invalidate evidence?

Recording the location of the exhibit.

Taking a photograph without a scale. (correct)

Signing the CJA continuity label correctly.

Replacing the evidence in original packaging.

What is the purpose of signing the CJA continuity label?

To confirm that packaging has not been tampered with. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with diagrams created during evidence examination?

They must be labeled clearly and include significant measurements. Signup and view all the answers

What must be included on the label attached to evidence?

Name and date of birth of the suspect(s) if known Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of compromised tamper-proof packaging of evidence?

No examination of the evidence should take place Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of documenting a crime scene according to best practices?

To create a permanent record of the evidence and its context Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if there is a discrepancy between the label and the logbook?

The evidence's examination must be halted until the issue is resolved Signup and view all the answers

What kind of records are considered contemporaneous according to forensic best practices?

Records made at the exact time of item seizures from the scene Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods is NOT a form of documentation for a crime scene?

Post-scene interrogations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following practices ensures continuity of evidence?

Logging each movement of evidence meticulously Signup and view all the answers

What details must be marked on the packaging of evidence?

Initials and date with tamper-proof security Signup and view all the answers

Which technique primarily utilizes the physical and chemical properties of fingermark constituents for material deposition?

Superglue fuming Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using coloured filters when combined with white light during fingermark imaging?

To suppress distracting backgrounds and increase contrast Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods would NOT be classified under fingermark imaging techniques?

Magnetic powder dusting Signup and view all the answers

In fluorescence examination, what is the characteristic feature that aids in increasing contrast?

Fingermark fluoresces while background does not Signup and view all the answers

Which option best describes the outcome of specular lighting in fingermark examination?

It improves contrast by highlighting the ridges of the fingermark. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) in forensic investigations?

To protect evidence from external contamination Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason to examine documents in forensic analysis?

To establish ownership Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'superficial level' refer to in the context of information in documents?

The physical characteristics like handwriting style Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of document examination involves detecting changes in the document's form?

Altercation detection Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of 'sequence determination' in document examination?

It aids in identifying the chronological order of changes or events Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tools is primarily used for indent detection in forensic document examination?

High-intensity light source Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to handle evidence carefully during forensic analysis?

To comply with legal requirements and minimize contamination risks Signup and view all the answers

Which primary aspect of document examination involves assessing if a document has been altered?

Altercation detection Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant limitation of the Bertillonage system as demonstrated in the West Brother’s case?

It could not differentiate between individuals with the same name. Signup and view all the answers

Which percentage of all fingerprints are classified as arches?

5% Signup and view all the answers

Which gland is exclusively found in the areas where fingerprints are formed?

Eccrine glands Signup and view all the answers

What is a Tented arch characterized by?

Central upthrusting ridges that meet at a 90-degree angle. Signup and view all the answers

What do fingerprint enhancement techniques primarily exploit?

Differences between the fingerprint properties and surface characteristics. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect determines the selection of enhancement techniques for fingermarks?

The Triangle of Interaction. Signup and view all the answers

How are latent fingerprints often made visible?

Through enhancement techniques that create a contrast. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of fingerprints due to the local conditions experienced during their formation?

They show variations even in identical twins. Signup and view all the answers

What does the fingerprint manual advise on?

Which technique to use based on surface type and order of application. Signup and view all the answers

What generally does not change throughout an individual's life regarding fingerprints?

The unique patterns formed. Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary motivation behind the initial development of graphology in the 1600s?

To link writing style to the characters of authors Signup and view all the answers

What does ESDA stand for, and what is its primary use?

Electrostatic Document Examination; to detect indented writing Signup and view all the answers

Which basic method can be used to reveal invisible ink made from lemon juice?

Heating the document gently Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the identification of printers?

Ink composition can help identify different brands of inkjet printers Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature can color printers leave behind that may assist in tracing the exact printer used?

Yellow dot patterns detectable under forensic analysis Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the MG21 ‘Request for Analysis Form’ in forensic contexts?

To document evidence submission and provide case background Signup and view all the answers

How does the GER (General Examination Record) assist forensic examiners?

It keeps contemporaneous notes and ensures consistency in evidence examination Signup and view all the answers

What is the principle behind Bertillonage as proposed in 1883?

Systematic measurement of human physical features Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the order of ink deposition in forensic document analysis?

It helps understand authorship and authenticity of markings Signup and view all the answers

What challenge exists when trying to link a document to a specific printer?

Black ink is typically made from multiple color combinations Signup and view all the answers

Why are complex chemistries developed for inks in forensic testing?

To reveal inks only with specific chemical developers Signup and view all the answers

What is one way that microscopy can aid in document examination?

It can help determine the sequence of ink line deposition Signup and view all the answers

What is 'Bertillonage' considered a precursor to in identification processes?

Fingerprinting techniques Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about invisible ink is false?

All invisible inks can be revealed by ultraviolet light. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Forensic science encompasses a wide range of topics, and understanding the types of evidence collected and examined is crucial.
Direct evidence establishes facts, often through eyewitness testimony or confessions, but can be questionable.
Circumstantial evidence requires interpretation and often involves DNA, fingerprints, or other trace evidence.
The Locard's exchange principle states that 'every contact leaves a trace'. This means that evidence is ubiquitous at crime scenes.
Forensic science plays a vital role in determining if a crime occurred, identifying responsible individuals, and establishing if a prosecution is supported.
The establishment of forensic laboratories in the US occurred in the 1920's and 1930's, driven by gang warfare, in particular, related to the illegal alcohol trade.

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Description

Explore the essentials of forensic science, including the different types of evidence and their importance in crime investigation. Understand the significance of direct and circumstantial evidence and the historical context of forensic laboratories in the United States. Test your knowledge of key principles like Locard's exchange principle.