Collecting Evidence

Question 1

What is the correct sequence of actions to be undertaken prior to uplifting any exhibit from the scene of a serious crime?

Answer 1

1. Record (sketch, diagram, photograph) the exhibit in situ.
2. Make a notebook record of the exhibit significance and consider the type of forensic evidence that may be present on it.
3. Use disposable gloves and appropriate equipment to uplift and package the exhibit.
4. Seal, label and secure the exhibit.

Question 2

Because deleted images can very easily be recovered from digital cameras, the guidelines direct:

Answer 2

Digital cameras are assigned to a named position or employee.

Question 3

True or False: Scene records including photographs, sketches, drawings and notebook entries must be completed prior to searching for and uplifting any material from the crime scene.

Answer 3

True

Question 4

True or False: An exhibit that is wet should be promptly packaged, sealed and labelled to avoid further deterioration.

Answer 4

False

Question 5

True or False: An exhibit collected for the forensic evidence it holds, should be uplifted, packaged and examined only by people wearing gloves and protective clothing.

Answer 5

True

Question 6

True or False: An exhibit package that is to be forwarded for analysis:

1. May hold several items of evidence from the scene.
2. Must be sealed by the collector at the time of collection.
3. Must be accompanied by a completed POL143
4. Must be labelled to prevent contamination.

Answer 6

1. False
2. True
3. True
4. False

Question 7

True or False: The digital imaging guidelines direct that any digital image that is to be produced as evidence must:

1. Be secured in a master copy “read only” format.
2. Have been downloaded to a police/secure computer.
3. Be validated by image numbering and the taker.
4. Have been taken by a person trained in photography.

Answer 7

1. True
2. True
3. True
4. False

Question 8

True or False: Safety precautions are essential when uplifting blood or other bodily fluids at serious crime scenes and also to ensure evidence contaminated with blood is safe for forensic examination and court. Accordingly, you should:

1. Discard used gloves and clothing in biohazard containers.
2. Package wet materials holding blood or bodily fluids promptly.
3. Package exhibits securely and label with biohazard warning.
4. Cover any abrasions on hands and use double gloves.

Answer 8

1. True
2. False
3. True
4. True

Question 9

When packaging an exhibit in a windowed paper bag or kleensak you must:

Answer 9

Fold over the top of the bag 2-3 times and seal with tape.