Criminal Investigation Flashcards
1
Q
Objectives of Evidence (4)
A
1) Facts of the Crime
2) Identify law breaker
3) Information to locate/arrest perp
4) Prosecute perp
2
Q
3 Methods for Crime Scene Sketching
A
- Coordinate: measuring an object from two fixed points of reference
- Triangulation: a birds eye view of the crime scene using fixed objects from which to measure; two or more widely separated points of ref required
- Cross-Projection: used in in-door crime scenes; top-down view of the crime scene where the walls of the room have been “folded-down” to reveal locations of bullet holes, blood splatter evidence…
3
Q
Field Notes
A
-Investigators most personal and readily available record of the crime scene search. Investigative process begins as soon as an officer gets a call to the scene.
4
Q
Battered Child Syndrome
A
Clinical term referring to a collection of injuries sustained by a child as a result of repeated mistreatment or beating. -Injuries more severe than reasonable expected -past/other injuries need to be explained
5
Q
Rape
A
Unlawful sexual intercourse, achieved through force and w/o consent. -Carnal knowledge -Forcible Submission -Lack of Consent
6
Q
5 Categories of Drugs
A
1) Cannabis: marijuana (mild hallucinogen); THC
2) Narcotics: opium, opium derivative/synthetic substitutes.
3) Stimulants: stimulate the CNS
4) Hallucinogens: act on CNS and create distorted perceptions.
5) Depressants: act on CNS, barbituates, Rohypnol, GHB
7
Q
Serial Fire Starters
A
Mass Arsonist: 3 or more fires at same location
Spree Arsonist: sets fires at 3 or more separate locations; no “cooling off” period
Serial Arsonist: sets 3 or more separate fires w/ a definite “cooling off” period between
8
Q
Field Interview (cards)
A
-Technique used when patrol officers happen on people or circumstances that appear suspicious but when there is not sufficient cause for arrest
9
Q
Using field notes in court
A
- it is acceptable for a person who did not prepare the notes to testify to their reliability, provided person was present when notes were prepared
- Defense may examine notes
- Defense will typically attack the validity of notes based on conditions under which they were prepared
- One notebook per investigation
10
Q
Best Evidence Rule
A
-(Cheadle v. Barwell, 1933) -ORIGINAL notes must be provided whenever possible -Photocopies may be used pursuant to an explanation
11
Q
Official Police Report
A
- Poorly written reports give defense a tool to confuse the officers testimony and muddle the issue
- 3 Prong Rule:
- FACTUAL
- THOROUGH
- TO THE POINT
12
Q
Steps in Report Writing
A
1) Collect info: scene, informants, witnesses
2) Take complete notes
3) Organize info
4) Prepare the report
5) Proofread/evaluate the report
13
Q
Official Police Report: Accuracy and Objectivity
A
- ability to report accurately= ability to conduct objective and thorough investigation and to express the inquiry in writing
- Unbiased manner
- When opinions are called for: must reflect the investigators thinking vs. his feelings (also note when opinion)
14
Q
Official Police Report: Word Choice
A
- Presentation and Dictation: Choice and Use of words
- Most effective report presentation is a chronological narrative; events are described as they occurred from the officers perspective
15
Q
Writing effective police reports
A
- Avoid unnecessary words
- Avoid elaborate/unfamiliar words
- Use specific words rather than vague terms
- Use active voice
- Use standard abbreviations (to avoid confusion)
- Short, simple sentences: clear meaning
- Avoid Double Negatives
- Use modifiers, adjectives, and adverbs sparingly: they do not contribute much to a fact finding report
- Use plain English rather than jargon/slang (except when quoting)
16
Q
Documenting Interviews
A
- Preliminary information: time/manner complaint was received; identification of location, time, and nature of crime, full ID of victims
- Witnesses
- Physical Evidence: search must be documented
- Modus Operandi: in many cases method of operation is a clue to determining the suspect
17
Q
Documenting Interviews
A
- Must distinguish btwn items that are know/verified and those that are based on judgments
- Conclusions unsubstantiated by fact should be presented as opinion
18
Q
Supplemental Report
A
- Considerably longer than initial complaint b/c it incorporates much greater detail including who, what, where, when, how
- Prepared in paragraph/chronological order
19
Q
Photographing Crime Scene
A
- both photos and sketches are necessary b/c photos may distort distance and color
- without photos a witness/juror may be influenced by: past experiences, preconceptions, stereotypes, and biases in making decisions
20
Q
Digital Photography
A
-Some argue that 35mm, silver based-film is superior because it cannot be manipulated or changed
21
Q
Photos as Evidence
A
- Principal requirements to admit= RELEVANCE and AUTHENTICATION
- Authentication is most important req: the party seeking to introduce the photo must present testimony that the photo is accurate and correct
- Need not be photographer: a witness with knowledge of the scene can testify that the photo accurately portrays the scene
- Relevancy: might unduly confuse or deceive the fact finder
- State v. Fournier
22
Q
What to Photograph
A
Can never be “too many photographs”
Three Stages:
- General View
- Medium Range View
- Close-up view
23
Q
Photos: General View
A
- Sweeping view of the crime scene
- Demonstrates what the scene looks like in its own environment
- Taken at a distance to reveal the natural surroundings
24
Q
Photos: Medium Range View
A
- Distance no greater than 20ft away from the object
- Intent is to depict specific items/objects
- Allows jurors to link each picture w/ the general crime scene photo
25
Photos: Close-up view
- Distance of less than 5 feet using zoom feature
- focus on small segments of a larger surface or on specific objects @ scene
- Should be take with and without a small object to provide perspective (ie: a ruler)
26
Crime Scene Photographs
_Pros_
* provide easy storage and retrieval of data on the crime scene
* remove inferences by placing the judge/jury at the scene
* give investigator a source of reference as the location of evidence at the scene
_Cons_
* do not show true/actual distances
* can distort color/perceptions
* can be ruined by mechanical errors in processing
27
Crime Scene Photos
- Photograph in a timely fashion
- Objects cannot be examined until photographed from every angle
- Record all camera angles and settings on crime scene sketch
- Use a tripod, or keep camera steady at eye-level
- Indoor Scenes: Overlap photos in order to depict the ENTIRE scene
28
Crime Scene Photos: Perspective
- must show relationship between one item of evidence and another
- Recognizable backgrounds
- If item is \<6in two photos needed: one taken at close-range, the other from at least 6ft away
29
Crime Scene Photos Lighting
- Natural light is often inadequate
- Avoid shadows: they hide details
- Avoid "washout" by flash
- Floodlights are helpful
30
Markers
Items placed in crime scene photos that call attention to specific objects or enable the viewer of the photo to get a sense of the size of the object or the distance between objects
-Photos should be taken before AND after placement of markers
31
Admissibility of Photo Evidence
-Materiality: Photos must be material & relevant
Material Photo: one that relates to and makes a substantive contribution to the specific case in question
Relevant Photo: applies to the matter in question; used to support testimony
32
Photos: Prejudicial Images
- Photos must not prejudice or unfairly appeal to the emotions of the jury
- Gruesome photos may be prejudicial
33
Photos: Distorted Photos
3 Common Distortions
* Incorrect point of view
* Perspective
* Misrepresentation of tone/color
34
Identification of Photographs
- Important to log photos carefully including date, time, sequence number
- Type of case
- Description
- Location
- Names of persons handling evidence
- Case number
35
Surveillance
Surreptitious observation
36
Digital Video
- Offer jurors a more complete reproduction of the scene
- greater perspective
- speed: no need to "develop" photos
- freeze frame feature
- can create photos from video
37
Crime Scene Sketch
- Videos and Photos may distort dimensions of the scene
- photo represents the scene as it is perceived by the viewer; the diagram represents the scene as it actually is
- Sketch is a scale drawing that locates evidence in relation to other factors
- Used to depict spatial relationships of evidence
- Objective: portray the scene accurately, not artistically
38
Crime Scene Sketch: Measurements
- all measures of distance must be conducted by using the same method
- TAPE MEASURE is considered the most effective method of measuring the scene
39
Crime Scene Sketch
- _Rough Sketch_: drawn by officers on the scene; not drawn to scale but should reflect accurate dimensions and distances between objects of importance
- Finished Sketch: completed sketch drawn to scale; measurements are not required if drawn to scale; not necessary for crime scene investigator to prepare finished sketch, but the investigator will be req. to affirm that the finished sketch is an accurate portrayal of the scene
- both rough and finished sketch are admissible
40
Preliminary Investigation
- Definition: initial inquiry by officers to est facts and circumstances of a suspected crime and to preserve any evidence related to the crime
- evidence collection process begins immediately after the discovery of a crime
41
Preliminary Investigation
- securing the crime scene
- possible arrest of a suspect
- locate/question of witness/victims
- document the scene
- identify/collecting evidence
42
Preliminary Investigation
- the scene itself is evidence
- crime scene= location where evidence of a crime may be found; not necessarily where the crime was committed
43
Crime Scene Evidence
- protection of crime scene is crucial to prevent: contamination, loss, or unnecessary movement of physical evidence
- contamination occurs:
* when evid is not properly secured
* wrongfully mixed w/ other evidence
* altered significantly from its original condition
-when evidence is contaminated, it is INCOMPETENT or INADMISSIBLE
44
Trace Evidence
- any type of material left at or taken from a crime scene as a result of contact between two surfaces
- evidence usually preserved by paper bag or envelope (rarely plastic bag)
- bits of matter that are not immediately apparent to the naked eye
45
Locard's Exchange Principle
-"locard's theory" or "transfer of evidence theory" -"with contact between two items, there will be an exchange"
46
Physical Evidence
1) can prove the elements of a crime or reveal that a crime has been committed
2) place the suspect at a scene
3) eliminate innocent persons
4) confronted w/ suspects may confess
5) witness testimony may be supported by p.e.
6) can have powerful effect on juries
47
Types of Evidence
- evidence can be considered either individually or in combo w/ other classes
- **_corpus delicti evidence_**: evidence that establishes that a crime has been committed (pry marks)
- **_associative evidence_**: links a suspect w/ a crime (fingerprints, footprints, blood)
48
Types of evidence
1) Physical: generally speaks for itself (weapons, fingerprints, drugs)
2) Direct/Prima Facie: at face value, proves a fact (minimum BAC)
3) Indirect/Circumstantial: merely tends to incriminate a person w/o offering any conclusive proof
4) Testimonial: verbal statements offered by a witness under oath; evidence offered in an oral manner
5) Trace: hair, clothing, fibers
6) Demonstrative: demonstrate/clarify an issue rather than prove something (anatomical dolls used by children)
49
First Officer's Responsibilities
- actions while en-route to scene
- initial actions upon arrival
- assistance to victims and protection of witnesses/bystanders
- arrest of perpetrator
- follow-up communications
- identification of witnesses and vehicles
- briefing investigators and superiors
50
First Officers Responsibilites
- while en-route to scene, be aware of suspicious vehicles/persons leaving the area of the scene
- be prepared to apprehend any perps
51
First Officers Responsibilities: Initial Actions
- verify that a crime has actually occurred
- unless reasonable belief that a major crime has occurred or is occurring: be cautious of entering properties w/o a warrant (these are SEARCHES)
- "protective sweep": of premises for victims and perpetrators
- communicate w/ dispatcher: failing to communicate endangers victims, officers, and all subsequent aspects of invest
52
First Officer's Responsibilities
- medical aid for victims
- unless bystanders are in danger, should avoid ordering bystanders away until it has been determined if they are witnesses
53
First Officer's Responsibilities
- arrest perpetrators if prob cause exists
- conflicts may occur when perp flees: generally, protecting the scene, victims, witnesses will be first priority; other units may be alerted to apprehend the fleeing perp
54
First Officer: follow-up communitcations
- supervisors must be alerted
- full description of perp; mode/direction of flight
- ARMED?
55
**Flash Description** (BOLO)
- type of crime
- number of suspects
- physical description
- weapons
- direction of flight
- method of escape
- injuries
56
Descriptions of Vehicles (CYMBL Rule)
* Color
* Year
* Make, model
* Body style
* License number
57
Managing emergency situations
- Preservation of human life is fundamental and should take priority over apprehension of the suspect
- emergency personnel should be instructed on how to enter the scene without disturbing evidence
58
Securing the scene
Unnecessary or improper entry into crime scene may:
* destroy/contaminate evidence
* introduce substances into the scene that may mislead the investigation
* provide defense attny's with a basis for discrediting the investigators or findings or crime lab
59
Securing the scene
Enter the crime scene only for purposes:
* determining that a crime has occurred
* aid victims
* apprehend perps
* secure the area
60
Securing the scene
-officers should note any portions of the scene through which they have passed, any objects they have touched, any other actions that have altered the scene
61
Steps to securing the scene
- Area must be defined: any area that may reasonably be anticipated to contain useful evidence; better to secure a larger area and narrow it down vs. trying to expand the area
- use back-up officers to secure the area
- scene should be cleared/secured: all non-essential persons cleared from scene
- record actions previously taken at the scene: any alterations to scene, activities of emergency personnel
- restrict access to the scene: record identities of any person entering the scene; anyone who enters the scene must be escorted by an officer -CONTAMINATION LOG
62
Scene: Dead Body
-body should not be touched, moved, or tampered with
63
Scene: Hanging Victim
- body should not be moved
- protect the knot on noose
- if must cut: cut far above knot
- care should be taken so that the body isn't further injured by falling to the ground
64
Scene: Firearms
- objects should generally be remain untouched, particularly firearms, bullets, and shell casings
- NEVER insert an object (ie pen) into barrel of gun
- preferred: pick up the gun using two fingers on the textured part of the grip (where no prints can be removed)
- never adjust the safety catch, unload, or alter a weapon until an exam has been performed (photo's sketching)
- proper marking of the cylinder position
65
Electronic Evidence
Define: information and data of investigative value that is stored in or transmitted by an electronic device
66
Characteristics of Electronic Evidence
1) it's latent evidence: not readily visible to the human eye under normal conditions
2) can transcend national and state borders quickly and easily
3) fragile and can easily be altered, damaged, compromised, or destroyed by improper handling/examination
4) it may not be time sensitive
\*\*expert testimony may be needed to explain the acquisition and the examination process of electronic evidence
67
Biohazardous Materials
- assume that all items contaminated w/ human/animal secretions are possible sources of infections
- biohazardous materials should be double bagged in secure plastic bags, taped (NEVER stapled) and labeled as biohazardous
- soaked clothing should be air dried before being bagged
- organic matter containing moisture may be subject to decay if sealed in non-porous container; such items should be packaged in a porous container so they can breath
68
Biohazardous Materials
- universal precautions: rubber gloves, no contact w/ face, eyes or mouth
- leather gloves worn OVER disposable rubber gloves for handling needles
- chlorine solution (1:10)
- laundered in water at least 160 degrees F for 25 min
69
Biohazardous Materials
- contaminated samples that may require laboratory analysis should not be encased directly in plastic because of the possibility of contaminating the evidence
- **evidence samples that will be subjected to DNA analysis should be kept FROZEN**
- evidence samples destined for **blood typing and certain other forensic tests should be REFRIGERATED**
70
Chemical and Hazardous Waste
- most chemical agents are seized as a result of clandestine drug manufacturing operations
- chemist/other qualified indiv should always be available
- evidence should not be housed in evidence storage rooms; offsite storage
71
Assessing the scene
1) evaluate the steps that have already been taken, prelim documentation of the scene
2) conduct a walk-through w/ first responders and CSI personnel to identify any threats to scene integrity and initial identification of evidence
3) determine need for search warrant
4) assess the scene to develop as plan w/o destroying/contaminating evidence
5) identify evidence collection and document team members
72
Assessing the scene
6) identify protective equipment/clothing that are necessary to process the scene
7) identity a separate "staging area" for equipment, personnel, ect...
8) assign one officer to be the "recorder"; this establishes a chain of custody, helps prevent loss, and reduces the nmbr of officers that must appear in court
9) determine the search method and the point where the search will begin
10) focus initially on easily accessible areas in open view and work outward; select a systematic search pattern; don't compromise subsequent processing and evidence collection efforts
73
Phases of crime scene search
- survey the crime scene
- document through sketches and photos
- record all physical evidence
- search for fingerprints
74
Search Patterns
1) spiral search method
2) grid search method
3) strip/line search method
4) quadrant/zone search method
\*\*Rule: search must be thorough
75
Indoor crime scene searches
- at least 2 officers
- divide the room in half, each investigator search a half (zone search method)
- at the conclusion: investigators switch halves and search again
76
Outdoor crime scene searches
- more officers required; more systematic search method required
- rope off scene into a grid, each square averaging 6sq ft (grid search method)
77
Nighttime crime scene searches
- if possible, wait until daylight
- lighting generators; sufficient illumination req.
78
Vehicle searches
- crime specific (hit and run vs. drug invest)
- should search for fingerprints after other trace evidence has been sought
79
Strip searches
- in private/controlled environment
- undress completely
- vaginal/rectal areas to be searched by medical personnel ONLY
- should consult prosecutor prior to conducting search
80
U.S v Montoya de Hernandez (1985)
- "alimentary canal smuggling"
- body packing
- woman known to be a "balloon swallower" arrived in US from Columbia; pat down-search= abd felt "firm"; court order for xray; presence of "balloons"; woman detained for four days and "passed" numerous cocaine-filled condoms
81
The Crime Scene Search
Two approaches:
- investigator should consider all information provided to him by officers who arrived earlier on the scene
- investigators should rationalize which evidence items seem to play the greatest role in the alleged crime
- principal concern is: to observe and document, rather than take action
- observation phase: note relative distance of any object to the victim (ie- shell casings)
82
Collecting Evidence
- evidence that is most fragile is a priority
- fingerprints is a priority
- blood and other trace evidence
- search the scene a second time after evidence has been collected
- "evidence collector"
* ensures evidence is recorded and processed in a uniform manner
* ensures evidence will be moved only when collector says so -@ trail: both investigator who discovered evidence and collector are usually needed to testify
83
Chain of Custody
- documentation of all who handle evidence in a criminal case
- number of persons handling evidence should be limited
- document who, date, time, and reason for giving evidence to another person
- anyone who handles evidence should place their name/badge nmbr to the package
- signed receipt should be obtained from person accepting evidence
- check to ensure evidence is the same item -check to ensure evidence is in the same condition as when it was discovered
84
Marking Evidence
- must be marked immed. upon sz. to ensure proper identification later (ie-@ trial)
- initials of seizing officer and date of sz
- evidence label: -case nmbr -exhibit number -date/time of sz -name and description of item -location at time of discovery -signature of ofc making discovery -name/initials of others witnessing discovry
85
Special Cases in Evidence
-evidence or not?
when any doubt exists the object should be collected and processed as evidence
86
Infected Evidence
- crime scene investigators working in uncontrolled and adverse environment
- use of protective equipment does not protect against cutting/puncturing
- officers who lack adequate protective equipment, who are uneasy about contracting diseases, lack training, might tend to limit their searches; "it's just not worth it" attitude
87
Firearms
- should be handled by the grip or the sides of the trigger guard
- NEVER stick anything into the barrel (can destroy trace evidence)
- No attempt should be made to fire the gun, dismantle it, or interfere with the mechanisms
- if revolver: mark empty cases/live cartridges and the rear edge of the cylinder with a code to show the chambers in which each empty case or live cartridge rested at the time of its removal
88
Bullets, Cartridges, and Empty Cases
- particular care to the portions used in identification; can determine type of weapon, and caliber of weapon
- areas used for identification
* the base
* the rim or cannelure
-bullets: don't remove the spent bullet, instead remove the material encasing the bullet (ie- the section of wall/door); handle minimally, package to prevent damage to side portions; package bullets individually
89
Stains
- blood is the most common; not all blood found belongs to the victim
- good photos/video should be taken
- samples from all locations
- should be swabbed and air dried before storage (blood samples rot easily)
90
Glass
-could be used to show:
* direction of travel of a projectile
* sequence of impact of a projectile
* match other broken glass
91
Impressions
- common in burglary and rape
- tool marks
- tire impressions
- foot impressions
- teeth impressions (partially eaten food)
- should locate the object that made the impression so that a comparison can be made in court
92
Drugs
-drug abuse is the greatest contributor to the commission of crime 1) preserve substances for court 2) transport the substances 3) protect themselves from the harmful effects of certain drugs -diff forms: plant, powder, liquid, tablet/capsule
93
Collecting Evidence
-should be done by trained specialists -responding officers should not collect evidence unless: 1) exigent circumstances exist that make it necessary to prevent its contamination or destruction 2) auth. has been received from a supervisor to collect evidence -generally, initial officers should limit their activities to securing the scene and preventing unauthorized persons from contaminating evidence
94
Collection of evidence under exigent circumstance
-emerg collection should be limited to the least interference needed to preserve the evidence from loss -supervisory/specialized assistance should be obtained as soon as possible to minimize adverse effects on the evidence or its admissibility
95
Collection of Evid under direction of OIC
-officers must comply with directions of OIC -comply with policies/procedures regarding evidence control -photo evid before/after -preserving, packaging, labeling
96
Interviewing witnesses
-witnesses should be identified -even those who deny having witnessed the crime should be identified -attempt to obtain information about others who may have been witnesses, but have left the scene -attempt to have witnesses provide names of people who live in the vicinity of the scene; frequent the area
97
Medical Examiner
-public official who makes official determinations of the cause and time of death in wrongful death cases -agency's S.O.P. should est when the M.E. is contacted -M.E. is usually responsible for moving the body -in the event a body must be moved, its position should be documented through photos and sketching -tape or chalk should be placed to indicate how the head, arms, legs were positioned; must take care to ensure body remains in its exact position found (when moving)
98
Neighborhood Canvass
-identifies material witnesses: those who have specific knowledge of the crime or parts of the crime -identifies general witnesses who can provide background info about victim and poss suspects -focus not only on residents, but store employees, delivery persons, utility persons, bus/taxi drivers, ect..
99
Crime scene reports
-should be prepared by both responding officers and those that conduct follow-up investigations -date/time which officers arrived on scene -relevant conditions @ arrival (incld weather) -manner crime was discovered -identity of reporting parties -id of police officer/emergency personnel present -physical evidence collected -identification info of witnesses -results of witness interviews -diagrams, sketches, photos, videos -recommendations that may be helpful to follow-up investigators
100
Follow-up Investigation
-continuing phase of the investigation in which info that is learned in prelim invest is added/built upon -analyzing reports of officers who conducted prelim invest -reviewing departmental records and "MO files" -gathering infro on friends/associates of suspects -examine victims background -check police intel files -organizational skills and personality traits can aid in communicating w/ ppl in the community who may possess valuable info
101
Trace Evidence Unit
-identifies and compares trace evidence that may be transferred during a crime; may often link a suspect to a scene -human hair, animal hair, textile fibers, and fabric, ropes, and wood -odontology= forensic dentistry; physical anthropology (skeletal remains)
102
Questioned Documents Unit
-handwriting, hand printing, typewriting, printing, erasures, alterations, obliterations -impressions left on paper may also be evaluated -watermarks, safety fibers
103
Forensic Chemistry
1) General Chem: dyes and chemicals in bank security devices; controlled substances; stains or markings; questioned ink; analysis of unk solids/liquids 2) Toxicology: analysis of biological specimens for drugs, poisons; claims of product tampering 3) Prints and Polymers: analysis of paint chips; ident. auto from paint samples; compares plastics; tape composition; caulks,sealants
104
DNA Analysis Unit
-analyses bodily fluids: blood, saliva, semen RFLP: restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR: polymerase chain reaction mtDNA: mitochondrial DNA analysis is applied to evidence containing small/degraded quantities of DNA from hair, bones, teeth, and bodily fluids MitoSearch: software designed for the compilation and analysis of mtDNA databases
105
Ballistics Unit
-examines evidence related to firearms, ammunition, tools, and tool marks -firearms exams: identify specific cartridges, bullets that were fired by a particular weapon -tool mark analysis: identifies tools as having made a specific mark
106
Latent Prints
-latent prints are impressions produced by the rigid skin on human fingers, palms, and soles of the feet Amido black protein: used to detect blood present w/ latent prints by staining proteins in blood a blue-black color AFIS: Automated Fingerprint Ident System: 10-print system designed for searching an individuals fingerprints to determine whether a prior arrest record exists CJIS: Criminal Justice Information Services (FBI), maintains largest repositories of fingerprint records
107
Forensic Photography
-responsible for imaging operations using traditional silver-based photographic process and digital imaging
108
Lab Equipment
Spectograph: used to identify minute samples of a substance by burning the material and interpreting the light emitted from the burning process Spectrophotometer: used to analyze coloring agents in small samples such as those found in paint and cloth Gas chromatograph: used for isolating gases or liquids from complex solutions or mixtures, generally in the analysis of illicit drugs, plastics, and explosives Mass spectrometer: used to separate and record ions according to their characteristic masses; most commonly used in detecting trace elements in glass, ashes, and other inorganic material
109
Fingerprinting
-used to identify criminal suspects, learn about suspects previous criminal history -humanitarian benefit: fingerprints can be used to identify missing persons, amnesia victims, and unknown deceased ppl, also used in disasters to identify ppl -NO TWO FINGERPRINTS HAVE BEEN FOUND TO BE ALIKE
110
Types of Fingerprints
1) Latent print (patent print): when the entire pattern of whorls on the finger is transferred to an object when it is touched; includes prints that are visible to the naked eye, but also those that can be examined properly only after development 2) Plastic print: results when a finger presses against plastic material and leaves a negative impression of friction ridges 3) Visible print (dust print): results from being adulterated w/ some foreign material such as blood, flour or oil
111
Groups of Fingerprint Patterns
1) The Arch 2) The Loop 2) The Whorl
112
Searching for prints
-should begin at the place of entry by the criminal -another technique is shining a flashlight at an oblique angle
113
Developing Latent Prints
-the sole purpose of developing/lifting a latent fingerprint impression, is to make it visible so that it can be preserved and compared
114
Developing Latent Prints (Powders)
-if a print is clearly visible, it should be photographer prior to attempts at developing it -allow wet prints to dry before lifting -powder color should contrast w/ the surface -typical beginner error: too much powder, too little brushing
115
Searching technique; also known as the quadrant method
Zone Search Method
116
The degree of an illegal and addicting drugs legal use
Dependence
117
The end or net result of the evidence collection process
Proof
118
Secret location where auto thieves dismantle stolen vehicles for the purpose of selling the parts
Chop Shop
119
Observing from a stationary location
Fixed Surveillance
120
Robbery of stores or businesses located close to major thoroughfares such as main streets, highways, and interstates
Commercial Robbery
121
A process of usning artificial intelligence by computers to make inferences based on available information, and to draw conclusions, or to make reccomendations to the system operators
Expert Systems
122
A sureveillance 0eam responsible for briefing officers concerning their actions if a crime occurs
Inside Team
123
When eyewitnesses compare line-up photographs w/ each other, rather than their memory
Relative Judgement
124
Pyramid Scheme
A commonly used confidence game
125
Unlawful taking of money or other assests from a bank through face-to-face interaction between suspect/victim
Bank Robbery
126
Crystal Meth
A potent form of methamphetamine
127
Dying Declaration
Must be:
* rational & competent
* ultimately die of their wounds
128
Simultaneous v. Sequential Line Up
Simultaneous= witness views suspect photos ALL AT ONCE
Sequential= witness views suspect photos seperately
129
Child Abuse
Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse of a child
130
Vice Crimes
- generally associated w/ organized crime
- provide supply of illegal goods/services
131
SCENE CONSCIOUSNESS
-when a crime scene investgator becomes aware of a crime scene, and is prepared to take certain immediate actions
132
Working undercover for extended periods of time
Deep Cover
133
Cyber-extortion
When a computer criminal extorts money from a victim
134
Homicide
Unlawful killing of one human being, by another
135
A statement made in response to a question, or a series of questions
Testimony
136
Date Rape
When a victim and offender are aquainted before the crime
137
A rapist who attempts to assert his manhood to the victim through sexual assault
Power Assertive Rapist
138
A person who vents his anger and frustration toward the opposite sex by punishing them
Anger-retalitory rapist
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A criminal computer program that automatically transfers money to an illegal account whenever a legal transaction is made
Trojan Horse
140
*Feeling* that a drug is necessary to one's well-being
Psychological Dependence
141
Exageration of evidence available, telling the person that the interrogator knows that he/she is guilty, or stressing the consequences of the crime
Maximization
142
Materials used in spreading an arson fire
Trailers
143
The covert process of gathering information on criminal activity
Intelligence gathering
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Admission
v.
Confession
* Admission= incriminating statement made by a the suspect that falls short of an acknowledgement of guilt. It's an acknowledgement of a certain fact/circumstance from which guilt can be inferred
* Confession= a direct acknowledgement by the suspect of his/her guilt in the commission of a specific crime or as an integral part of a specific crime
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Preparations used to set an arson fire
Plants
146
A child molester who views the victim as a substitute for an adult partner
Regressed Child Molester
147
Types of Murders/Murderers
* _Serial Murder_= murder of separate victims with time breaks as short as two days, to weeks, or months between murders
* _Mass Murder_= *four or more* murders in a single incident within a short span of time
* _Sensational Murder_= murder that arouses intense public interest
* _Spree Murder_= killing in rampage fashion; someone who embarks on a murderous assault (two or more victims) in a short time, in multiple locations
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The stealing of merchandise
Pilferage
149
Information that furnishes the agency with specifics about individuals, organizations, and different types of criminal activity
Tactical Intelligence
150
Amatuer pilferers who are usually respectable persons and do not consider themselves as theives, yet are systematic shoplifters who steal merchandise for their own use rather than for resale
Snitches
151
A type of robbery where robbers approach a car, smash a window, and rob the driver at gunpoint
$mash and grab robbery
152
The arrest team in a surveillance
The outside team
153
One who engages in some sort of child sexual exploitation
Child Molester
154
Charting technique designed to show relationships between individuals and organizations using a graphic visual design
Link Analysis
155
Items such as tools, liquor, and clothing that are indistinguishable from others like them
Fungible Goods
156
Lividity
A bloodstain on the body of a deceased person
157
Scientific Analysis of blood
Serology
158
criminal presents sequentially changing information to an automated system to identify those items receiving a positive response
Scanning
159
Pretrial Conference
Meeting between investigator and prosecutor at which prosecution stratagey is discussed
160
Phase of the intelligence process whereby information is shared with other law enforcement agencies
Dissemination
161
Legal standard used to determine the admissibility of scientific evidence
Frye Test
162
Stationary/fixed surveillance= STAKEOUT
163
Catagory of missing children that are most commonly encountered by law enforcement
Runaway/lost child
164
set of illegal computer instructions designed to ruin computer hardware/software while reproducing itself in the computer when it is executed
Computer Virus
165
Physical/psychological unwillingness to comply
Resistance
166
False Data Entry
Data Diddling
167
Criminal practice of gaining the confidence of a would-be victim for the sole purpose of swindling money from them
Confidence Game
168
Type of crime where the offender is more concerned with financial gain and less prepared for violent altercations w/ the victim
Property Crime
169
when highly suggestible and confused suspects actually begin to believe that they are guilty of the crime they didnt commit
Coerced Internalization
170
children who suffer from physical abuse
battered children
171
Fire Triangle
* Heat
* Fuel
* Oxygen
172
Computer generated composite of a suspected criminal
Indenti-kit
173
Span of the fire
Physical characteristics of an arson fire such as: smoke, direction, flames, and distance of travel
174
Money launderers go to different banks and purchase chasiers checks in denominations of less than $10,000 for the purpose of bypassing the reporting requirement
Smurfing
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Implication of *restrictions on physical behavior*; such as: prolonged interrogation and deprivation of water, food, or sleep
Duress
176
When witnesses _compare each photograph_ or person in a line-up _only with their memory_ of what the offender looked like
Absolute Judgement
177
Intelligence files that are maintained seperate from criminal investigation files to prevent unauthorized inspection
Closed Files
178
Child molester who commits such crimes because of one of several external factors. Including: intoxication, drug abuse, mood or mental conditions, or other social conditions
Situational Child Molester
179
Process of proposing a likely explanation for an event that must be tested
Abductive Reasoning
180
Mara Salvatrucha
MS-13
Salvadoran gang
181
Officers authority to search incident to an arrest
Scope of the Search
182
Pigeon Drop
Type of Confidence game
183
Professional shoplifters who resell stolen merchandise to pawn shops or fences at usually one-half to one-fourth the original price
Boosters
184
Evidence that is not readily visible to the naked eye
Latent evidence
185
An informational tracking system that demonstrates a chain of events or activites over a period of time
Flowcharting
186
Destruction, theft, or unauthorized use, modification, or copying of information, programs, services, equipment, or communication networks
Cybercrime
187
Pattern of crevices formed by the burning of a wooden structure
Alligatoring
188
When a childs death is directly related to injuries suffered as a result of a specific incident, abuse, or act of negligence
Acute Maltreatment
189
Check Kiting
Drawing cash on accounts made up of uncollected funds
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Information that provides the investigator with information as to the capabilities and intentions of target subjects
Strategic Intelligence
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Statement, object, or other item baring on or establishing the point in question in a court of law
Evidence
192
Stationary Surveillance
Stakeout
Fixed Surveiellance
193
Freebase
A method of ingesting cocaine in a purified form
194
Robbery when an armed intruder breaks into a home and holds the residents at gun/knifepoint
Residential Robbery
195
A physical condition that develops when a person needs increasing doses of a drug to experience its intial effects
Tolerance
196
Act of adversely affecting evidence by allowing it to be tampered with or by not protecting the chain of custody
Contamination of Evidence
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Permits, in a court of law, the admission of relevant evidence that is helpful to the trier of fact
Relevancy Test
198
The process of generating computer models to predict a terrorists actions
Data Mining
199
Robbery committed on public streets and alleyways
Street Robbery
200
Criminal information developed for the purpose of eventually making an arresr and gaining a conviction
Open Files
201
When a child is removed from his/her family through force or trickery
Nonfamily abduction
202
A child molester who has sexual desires focusing on children and typically has a more identifiable psychological disorder
Preferential Molester
203
Legal principle that enables officers to search an automobile without a search warrant provided that they have probable cause to believe it contains contraband and that the vehicle is mobile
Carroll Doctrine
204
Process of altering title documents for stolen automobiles
Tagging
205
Information and data of investigative value that is stored in or transmitted by an electronic device
Electronic Evidence
206
Method of collecting information involving personal interaction with individuals, many of whom are witnesses to crimes, victims of crimes, or the suspects themselves
Overt information collection
207
Prevention through deterrence that is sometimes achieved by arresting the criminal and by aggressive prosecution
Preventive Response
208
Federal law passes in 1970 to require reporting of large-scale case transactions
Bank Secrecy Act (BSA)
209
Use or threat of illegal *physical means* to induce a suspect to make an admission or confession
Coercion
210
Criminal endeavor in which stolen vehicles are disposed of
Stripping Operation
211
Cancellation bulletin for stolen credit cards
Hot List
212
Basis of sexual misconduct w/ children
Pedophilia
213
Process of comparing texts carefully to clarify or give meaning to information
Collation
214
Burglary
A covert crime in which the criminal works during the nighttime, outside the presence of witnesses
215
Process of one person assuming the identity of an authorized computer user by acquiring the victims items, knowledge, or characteristics
Masquerading
216
Class of illicit drugs that are specifically designed to emulate controlled substances
Designer Drugs
217
Exemplars
Samples, as of a suspects handwriting
218
One whose primary sexual orientation is toward children and whose sociosexual maturation as a result of unresolved conflicts in his/her development
Fixated Child Molester
219
Evidence in an arson case that shows motive. This includes financial records, inflated insurance coverage, little or no inventory, and excessive debts
Paper Trail
220
Fingerprints that are nonvisible unless developed through a fingerprint-lifting process
Latent Finger Prints
221
When a car thief purchases a wrecked vehicle that is unrepairable, strictly for its certificate of title and for the vehicle identification number
Salvage Switch
222
Reactive Response
An approach to crime solving that addresses crimes that have already occurred, such as murder, robbery, and burglary.
223
Practice of observing suspected drug traffickers to develop a pattern of behavior that would constitute legal cause for a stop and search by police
Drug Courrier Profile
224
Terry Doctrine
A legal principle that states that the police have the authority to detain a person even w/o probable cause if the person is believed to have committed a crime
225
Proactive Response
An investigative approach to crime solving in which criminal activity is investigated before it occurs
226
A process in which DNA strips can be rapidly reproduced for scientific analysis
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
227
Criminals who defraud; for example, attempt to obtain prescriptions for controlled drugs
Scammers
228
Binding material
Material used to incapacitate a victim during the course of a robbery
229
A clandestine process of data collection on criminal acts that have not yet occurred but for which the investigator must prepare
Covert information collection
230
A fingerprint impression left when a person presses against a plastic material such as putty, wax, or tar
Plastic Fingerprint
231
A surveillance officer, sometimes called an intelligence, cover, or tactical officer, who works in plainclothes and who works with the undercover unit but not in an undercover capacity
Support Officer
232
Occurs when a childs death is directly related to injuries caused by maltreatment or neglect occurring over an extended period
Chronic Maltreatment
233
The use of fear tactics that include direct threat, intimidation, or actual physical abuse
Coerced-compliant confessions
234
Databases that permit fast and easy sorting of large records
Relational Databases
235
Pitfalls of Intelligence Gathering
* Intelligence operations can be subject to abuse
* inappropriate to focus intel operations based on political activites, or views that are perceived to threaten coventional doctrines
* use of law enforcement intelligence resources to intimidate, inhibit, or suppress such activity is unethical
236
Uses of Intelligence
* International/domestic terrorism
* organized crime
* information gathering by individual officers is at the heart of any intel operation
* raw information is convrted into intelligence through a process of:
* information evaluation
* collation
* analysis
* disemination
* Intelligence does not produce decisions, it provides the decision makers with information to make their decisions
237
Overt and Covert Intelligence Collection
**_Overt information collection_**: includes personal interaction w/ people, many of whom are witnesses, victims, or suspects themselves; patrol division is especially instrumental in the overt information collection process
**_Covert information collection_**: most common, includes a process known as **intelligence gathering**; process of data collection on criminal acts that have not yet occurred, but for which the investigator must prepare; includes:
* physical surveillance
* electronic surveillance
* informants
* undercover officers
238
Criminal Intelligence
- knowledge of past, present, or future criminal activity that results from the collection of information that, when evaluated, provides the user with a basis for rational decision making
- intelligence unit is more of STAFF FUNCTION, as they provide support to line personnel
239
Criminal Intelligence v. Criminal Investigation
* criminal investigations are reactive; intelligenge ops are proactive
* crimnial investigators generally work with *deductive logic* (general to the specific); intelligence operators generally work with *inductive logic* (specific to general)
* investigative case files are generally **open files**: they contain info for the purpose of eventually making an arrest and gaining a conviction in a court of law
* intelligence files are generally **closed files**: they contain information regarding ongoing criminal activity, much of which has not been verified as factual
* Successful culmination of of a criminal investigation= arrest/conviction of a suspect, whereas successful culmination of an intelligence operation is the cataloging of an intelligence product
240
Strategic v. Tactical Intelligence
_Strategic intelligence_: is a tool for long-range planning; provides information about the capabilities and intentions of targets
Tactical intelligence: targets criminal activity considered to be of immediate importance to the investigator; furnishes specifics about individuals, organizations, and different types of criminal activity
241
Phases of Intelligence Gathering
**Phase 1= Target Selection**
* Utility
* Probability of success
* Required resources
* Objective
Phase 2= Data Collection
* info gathered from intel invetigators
* info from nonintel units (fingerprints, warrant files, traffic records
* info from other fed, state, local jurisdictions
* info from non law enforcement agencies (credit records, utility companies, trial records)
Phase 3= Data Collation and Analysis
* collation= process of comparing texts and assigning meaning
* linked data charts, flowcharts, frequency of distribution charts
Phase 4= Dissemination
* stage that most commonly breaks down
* process of distributing intel information to other law enforcement agencies
242
Analyzing Information
Analysis= purpose is to make fragmented information flow in a logical sequence to make it purposeful to the user
Several methods of analysis exist: *Data description and integration*
* Link Analysis
* Flowcharting
* Event flow analysis
* Commodity flow analysis
243
Link Analysis
-Link analysis charting is a technique designed to show relationships between individuals and organizations using a graphical visual design; shows graphically, what is too complex to assimilate through written reports
* assembly of raw data
* selection of certain data points
* construction of a collation matrix showing the data points
* entry of the association on the matrix
* tabulation of the number of association points on the matrix
* designation of the types of relationships by drawing different types of lines from one association point to another
* relationships of individuals to organizations by contstructing circles for indiv. and boxes for businesses
* examination of final diagram and recommendations regarding a course of action
244
_Role of Intelligence Analyst_
* guide data collection
* suggest operational recommendations
* provide information to decision makers
* assume a position of noninvolvement in policy formation
245
Flowcharting
- demonstrates a chain of events or activities over a period of time
**Event Flow Analysis**: descriptions of events, connected to other events
**Commodity Flow Analysis**: charts the logical flow of commodities such as drugs, money, illegal arms shipments; drug distribution networks: if money can be traced to its origin; useful in investigating the main drug kingpin
246
RISS Projects
(Regional Information Sharing Systems)
- funded anually by U.S Congress; part of the Justice Dept
- primary basis for est. of the six RISS projects is to provide criminal justice agencies throughout established regions with a means by which ciminal intelligence can be shared amoung member agencies
- services such as: centralized database; analysis of intel and investigative data; specialized equip to loan; confidential funds; technical assistance; technical assistance; specialized training; access to telecommunications systems
- GOAL of the RISS projects is to aid state and local law enforcement agencies in the organizing and sharing of criminal intelligence
247
Auditing and Purging Intelligence Files
- intel files that are no longer accurate/relevant to the mission, do not pertain to investigative interests/activities should be purged
- a record of any purged file should be maintained
- a yearly review of files to be purged is recommended
248
Officers who collect and document evidence found at crime scenes are referred to as \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Evidence Custodians
249
Electronic Surveillance and Wiretaps
* -Katz v. U.S* (1967): public telephone booth; court held that a warrant is required to unveil what a person makes an effort to keep quiet, even in public spaces
* -Lee v. Florida* (1968): court applied the Federal Communications Act to telephone conversations that might be the subject of a police investigation; the only person who has the authority to permit eavesdropping (according to the act) is the sender of the message
- *Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968*: prohibits wiretaps, but allows L/E to listen to electronic communications when:
1. officer is one of the parties involved in the communications
2. one of the parties is not the officer but willingly decides to share the communication with the officer
3. officer obtains a warrant based on probable cause
*-US v. White* (1971): L/E may interecept electronic information when one of the parties involved in the communication gives consent, even w/o warrant
250
Minimization of Electronic Surveillance
- U.S v. Scott (1978)
- **_Minimization_**: officers must make every reasonable effort to monitor only conversations that are specifically related to the criminal activity being investigated. Once it becomes clear that a conversation is innocent/unrelated, officers must cease listening
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