Introduction to Forensics Crime Investigation
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Questions and Answers

What is a method used for enhancing contrast in fingermark imaging by influencing the optical properties of the mark and background?

  • Ultraviolet lighting
  • Laser scanning
  • Infrared imaging
  • Oblique lighting (correct)
  • Which of the following techniques does NOT involve a chemical reaction in the enhancement of fingermarks?

  • Fluorescence examination (correct)
  • Superglue fuming
  • Magnetic powder dusting
  • Ninhydrin spray
  • Which method improves contrast by using filters in conjunction with white light to minimize distracting colored backgrounds?

  • Dark field illumination
  • Vacuum metal deposition
  • Powder suspensions
  • Colour filtration (correct)
  • What primary benefit does fluorescence examination provide in fingermark imaging?

    <p>Creating contrast through fluorescence of the fingermark (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following matches fingermark enhancement techniques with their description incorrectly?

    <p>Magnetic powder dusting - utilizes liquid mediums (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of setting up cordons at a crime scene?

    <p>To control access and preserve the scene (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which task is NOT part of the initial response to a crime scene?

    <p>Apprehend suspects immediately (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the inner cordon at a crime scene consist of?

    <p>Forensic investigators only (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect is a goal of dynamic risk assessment at a crime scene?

    <p>Preserve continuity of evidence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a key responsibility during volume crime investigations?

    <p>Obtaining witness information (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical function of the outer cordon?

    <p>To prevent public interference with evidence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action should be prioritized once a dynamic risk assessment is complete?

    <p>Set up cordons to secure the area (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important aspect of preserving evidence at a crime scene?

    <p>Keeping the evidence unchanged from arrival to analysis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What technique is used to analyze inks that have similar visible appearance?

    <p>Simple liquid chromatography techniques (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which analysis is primarily concerned with microstructural details of paper?

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

    What is an indication that a signature may have been traced rather than written quickly?

    <p>Even force and pressure applied (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What technique can reveal obliterated text when different inks are used?

    <p>Infrared reflection (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic of certain inks is useful for forensic analysis under infrared light?

    <p>They fluoresce in the infrared region (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method can help detect erasures on a written document that has been altered with solvents?

    <p>Ultraviolet fluorescence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of analysis is used to determine if a questioned document was written by the claimed author?

    <p>Comparative handwriting analysis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can infrared techniques reveal about a faded document?

    <p>Alterations made to the text (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a limitation of using UV light for imaging?

    <p>It may degrade biological material. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage does digital imaging provide in the context of fingermarks?

    <p>It allows for real time imaging outside the visible spectrum. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of wavelengths can reveal marks on patterned, multi-coloured backgrounds?

    <p>Long wave infrared reflection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT included in the UK's national fingerprint database?

    <p>Voice recognition data. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many individuals' ten-prints does the UK’s fingerprint database hold approximately?

    <p>8.3 million. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to fingerprint images in England and Wales following an arrest?

    <p>They can only be removed in special circumstances after charges. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the approximate number of scene of crime identifications made in the last 6 months according to the database?

    <p>38,179. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many matches does the national database make from recovered crime scene data per year?

    <p>85,000. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of PPE in a forensic context?

    <p>To protect the evidence from contamination (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

    <p>To determine the type of paper used (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of a document can be analyzed to identify alterations?

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

    Which method is used to determine the sequence of document alterations?

    <p>Indentation detection (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Locard's principle is primarily associated with which forensic concept?

    <p>The idea that every interaction leaves a trace (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of documents are commonly examined for forgery?

    <p>Financial statements and legal contracts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which tool would NOT be utilized for document examination?

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

    When analyzing handwriting, which element is typically NOT considered?

    <p>The psychological profile of the writer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the 'Three Shot Rule' in crime scene photography?

    <p>To ensure a comprehensive visual record of the scene (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a requirement for photographing evidence?

    <p>Photographs must be taken at a low angle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum DPI required for fingerprint capture?

    <p>500 DPI (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to have an accurate perspective in crime scene photography?

    <p>To avoid potential lens distortion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be included with evidence numbers in photographs?

    <p>Case number and scale (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if the resolution of an image is low?

    <p>The quality of the image may be compromised (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component is essential for avoiding motion blur in crime scene photographs?

    <p>Using a tripod or stabilization techniques (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of taking long-range shots in crime scene photography?

    <p>To provide context of the exhibit in its surroundings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Initial Tasks at a Crime Scene

    The first actions taken at a crime scene, including ensuring the safety of everyone involved, safeguarding evidence, and apprehending the suspect.

    Volume Crime

    A type of crime that involves a large number of victims or incidents, often with a recurring pattern or method.

    Dynamic Risk Assessment

    A quick assessment of potential hazards and risks at a crime scene, considering the environment, biological dangers, and chemical substances.

    Crime Scene Cordon

    A physical barrier set up around a crime scene to restrict access and preserve evidence. It's divided into inner and outer layers, with different levels of security.

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    Inner Cordon Crime Scene

    The inner layer of a crime scene cordon, where investigators work directly with the evidence.

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    Outer Cordon Crime Scene

    The outer layer of a crime scene cordon, managed by police officers to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure safety.

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    Purpose of a Crime Scene Cordon

    The purpose of a crime scene cordon is to: control access, preserve evidence, and ensure everyone's safety.

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    Preservation of a Crime Scene

    The actions taken to preserve a crime scene, including maintaining the integrity of evidence, ensuring safety, and minimizing contamination.

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    Long range shot

    A photograph taken from a distance to show the overall scene and the location of the exhibit in relation to its surroundings.

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    Medium range shot

    A photograph taken from a closer distance to show the exhibit and its immediate surroundings.

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    Close up shot

    A photograph taken up-close to show the exhibit in detail, often with a measurement scale to provide accurate dimensions.

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    The Rule of Three

    A rule that emphasizes the importance of documenting a crime scene with a comprehensive set of photographs. These include long range, medium range, and close up shots.

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    Photographing an untouched scene

    A photograph taken before the scene is altered to showcase the original state of the evidence.

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    Photographing with a scale

    A photograph taken after the addition of a measurement scale to provide a sense of size and proportion.

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    Photographing after evidence collection

    A photograph taken after the collection of evidence to document the location where the evidence was found.

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    Depth of field

    The ability of a camera lens to capture a wide range of objects in focus, from near to far.

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    Dyeing of fingermark constituents

    A chemical process where fingermark residue reacts with a reagent to form a colored compound, making the print visible.

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    Polymerization reaction catalyzed by fingermark constituents

    Fingermarks contain substances that can speed up chemical reactions. This is used in techniques like superglue fuming, where a vapor reacts with the mark to solidify.

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    Selective deposition of material influenced by physical/chemical properties of fingermark

    The choice of how to develop a fingerprint depends on the surface and the composition of the mark. Some methods work better on smooth surfaces, while others are good for porous materials.

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    White light examination

    Techniques like oblique lighting and dark field illumination use light in specific ways to create contrast between the fingerprint and the background, making the mark easier to see.

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    Colour filtration

    Filters can enhance the visibility of fingerprints by absorbing certain wavelengths of light, which can allow the mark to stand out more.

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    Ink Analysis

    Examining the chemical composition of ink to differentiate between inks that visually appear similar.

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    Paper Analysis

    Analyzing the physical properties of paper, like weight and how easily it absorbs liquids, to determine its type and origin.

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    Paper Filler Analysis

    Analyzing the fillers added to paper with advanced techniques like microscopy to identify their type and origin.

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    Handwriting Analysis

    Comparing known handwriting samples to a questioned document to determine if they were written by the same person.

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    Detecting Alterations

    Detecting changes made to a document by examining how different inks react to various wavelengths of light.

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    Infrared Reflection

    Using infrared light to reveal overwritten or erased text by highlighting differences in ink properties.

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    Ultraviolet Fluorescence

    Analyzing a document under ultraviolet light to reveal erased or faded writing, as erasures often leave traces.

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    Analyzing Writing Style

    Analyzing handwriting for specific characteristics that might reveal information about the writer's personality or habit (e.g., writing speed, pressure applied).

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    Locard's Principle

    A fundamental principle in forensics stating that every contact leaves a trace, meaning that any interaction with a crime scene will leave evidence.

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    PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

    Protective gear worn to ensure the safety of the forensic investigator and the integrity of the crime scene.

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    Document

    Any material containing information, including written, printed, or digital forms. Paper documents, messages, or even markings on walls can be considered documents.

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    Document Examination

    Involves examining a document to determine its authenticity, the writer, any alterations, or hidden messages.

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    Superficial Level of Information

    The visible aspects of a document, such as the writing, printing, or typing.

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    Deeper Level of Information

    The deeper aspects of a document, such as the identity of the writer, the source of the printing, or any alterations made.

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    Document Alteration Examination

    Analysis of a document to determine if it has been tampered with, including additions, erasures, or obliterations.

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    Document Sequence Determination

    Determining the order in which multiple document elements were created, to understand the sequence of events.

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    UV Light in Forensics

    A specialized type of light used in forensics to make certain substances glow, making them visible.

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    Infrared Reflection in Forensics

    A method used to reveal fingerprints by taking advantage of how light reflects off different surfaces.

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    Portable Lasers/LEDs in Forensics

    Using lasers or LEDs to illuminate crime scenes and find trace evidence.

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    Digital Imaging in Forensics

    Digital images have revolutionized forensic work, offering real-time viewing, processing, and enhanced detail.

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    National Fingerprint Database

    A massive database containing fingerprints, palm prints, and crime scene marks collected from individuals.

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    Fingerprint Matching

    The process of comparing fingerprints found at a crime scene to those in the database.

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    Data Collection from Arrests

    When DNA and a mugshot are taken from every arrested person in England, Scotland and Wales.

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    Fingerprint Removal from Database

    Fingerprints are only removed from the database in special circumstances, but Scotland removes records on acquittal.

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    Study Notes

    Introduction to Forensics

    • Direct evidence establishes facts through eyewitness testimony or confessions.
    • Circumstantial evidence needs interpretation, and frequently involves DNA.
    • Locard's exchange principle states that "every contact leaves a trace."
    • Eyewitness testimony is limited by intentional and change blindness.
    • Forensic science investigates a crime (whether it was committed), determines responsibility, and whether a prosecution is justified.

    Crime Scenes

    • Crime scene is location of illegal act, where evidence is collected.
    • Primary crime scene is where the actual crime took place, and secondary scenes are related locations.
    • Crime scenes are processed by trained personnel, including crime scene investigators (CSIs).
    • Safety procedures are crucial to preserve evidence.

    Role of Investigators

    • Investigation process involves reporting a crime, evidence preservation and recovery, analysis, conclusions, and prosecuting the case.
    • Crime scene examination involves preservation, recording, documenting scene, identifying evidence, and gathering items
    • CSI role: confirms committed crime, preserves scene, identifies key evidence, documents all evidence and prepares court statements.

    Types of Crime and Initial Tasks

    • Volume crimes involve lesser offenses such as burglary, theft of property. Initial tasks for these involve preserving life, protecting property, maintenance of order, preserving evidence, and apprehending offenders.
    • Major crimes involve more serious offenses such as murder, manslaughter, rape, arson, or terrorism. Initial tasks involve preserving life, protecting property, maintenance of order, preserving evidence, and apprehending offenders.

    Health and Safety

    • Set up safety procedures (cordons and rendezvous points) to prevent people from accessing the crime scene.
    • Identify hazards in the crime environment, such as biological and chemical hazards.
    • Establish safety distances between people and the crime scene.

    Evidence Packaging and Preservation.

    • Correct packaging, minimizing handling and inappropriate storage.
    • Ensure proper packaging, including storage and handling (tools, gloves, PPE).
    • Prevent cross-contamination during the packaging and storage process.
    • Preserve evidence integrity by preventing contamination, damage, or degradation.
    • Proper labeling and record keeping necessary to maintain chain of custody and preserve integrity.

    Crime Scene Management and Searches

    • Use of zoning and search techniques to systematically search.
    • Physical zones to systematically manage the crime scene.
    • Techniques like strip/parallel search pattern, grid method, and outward/inward spiral.

    Documentation and Photography

    • Detailed crime scene sketches with measurements to detail the scene (e.g., dimensions of the scene, locations of objects).
    • Photographs (long range, medium range, close-up views, with a 'three-shot rule') to document the scene before, during and after critical evidence collection.
    • Photography must follow established procedures, with considerations for scale, quality, and resolution.

    Forensic Examinations- Special Focus on Documents, Fraud, and Forgery

    • A document (official or not) can be analyzed for its authenticity given its characteristics, author(s), alterations, additions, erasures and/or obliterations, and the method of creating the document
    • Documents can be analyzed to identify the author and method (printing type, handwriting) and any tampering or alterations.
    • Important to consider ink analysis and paper analysis, as well as special properties(watermarks, fluorescence markers or obliterations)
    • Using analytical methods in comparison with related docs (e.g. handwriting) can aid in determining the source of a document or authenticity.

    Fingerprint Analysis

    • Fingerprints unique to each individual and remain consistent throughout their whole life.
    • Fingerprint patterns used to identify individuals in crime scenes.
    • Fingerprints are collected under controlled conditions and documented for comparison.
    • Classification systems used to sort and match fingerprints (Henry system using patterns and ridge characteristics).
    • Types of fingerprints include arches, loops and whorls.
    • Fingerprint analysis used to identify individuals.

    Trace Evidence

    • Trace evidence are the marks left from contacts between hands and surfaces, providing evidence for investigations.
    • Using forensic science to identify an individual for forensic cases
    • Chemical composition can change, depending on the surface and time factors.

    Evidence Recovery

    • The physical examination of exhibits and the retrieval of any evidence are crucial.
    • When receiving exhibits, carefully examine and document the packaging for signs of tampering or damage.
    • Cut or remove packaging appropriately (e.g., cutting a new hole in the packaging).
    • Properly handle and package any debris/fragments fallen from items being analyzed..
    • Photograph and document anything unusual that can be utilized as part of a thorough forensic investigation
    • Properly record all recovered evidence (e.g., label and seal).

    Documenting Scenes and Evidence

    • Crime scene reports/logs/photographs (date, time, location) which details scene parameters.
    • Reports include observations of local conditions (weather, lighting) and photographs, and documentation of everything important to the crime.
    • Photographs that document the entire scene and all objects found.
    • The information obtained from the crime scene must be documented in detail and prepared contemporaneously for court use

    Personal Protective Equipment

    • PPE is used to maintain safety of personnel and maintain the integrity of evidence.
    • PPE such as face masks, gloves, appropriate eyewear, and specialist clothing.

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    Description

    Explore the fundamentals of forensic science and its crucial role in crime investigation. This quiz covers direct and circumstantial evidence, the importance of crime scene processing, and the responsibilities of investigators. Understand how evidence is collected and analyzed to create a solid case for prosecution.

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