Exhibit Management Flashcards
Exhibit number ranges
Five digit exhibit number ranges result in fewer instances of non exhibit related hits when doing a search (eg, 24hrs clock or dates)
Key Attributes:
- be consistent
- Allow delegation if exhibit numbers to staff who will use them
- cope with multiple scenes
- be compatible with technology, allowing searching (as above)
- encompass all exhibits eg, MEK’s, doc’s, reference blood samples and photos sent to ESR
What information do you specify in the Pol 143?
- whether any exhibits are damp
- brief circumstances of case
- purpose of examination
- location where each item originated from
- authorization from appropriate supervisor
In smaller investigations the OC Exhibits (in conjunction with the OC Investigation) may also conduct an appreciation and facilitate a thorough interrogation of every exhibit to establish the:
- evidential values of each exhibit
- investigative opportunities presented by each exhibit
- further enquiries that are needed
As OC Exhibits you attend all investigation team conferences and?
- attend all forensic strategy meetings and investigation briefings to facilitate info sharing
- where possible take responsibility for maintaining liaison between OC Investigation, 2IC, Crime Scene Coordinator/OC Scene, ESR and other specialist.
Describe the chain of custody and state the purpose?
The chain of custody includes every individual who has had custody of an exhibit from the time it was first discovered until the time it is produced in court. It is used to demonstrate the integrity, and therefore admissibility of exhibits.
The OC Exhibits must where appropriate update the OC Investigation and 2IC with relative information relating to what?
- What exhibits have been found and their movements
- the results of any exhibit examination
- whether any further enquiries are required
Why is it important to develop a forensic strategy for examination of exhibits?
This allows the OC Exhibits to prioritize tasks in line with the direction of the investigation. The strategy must be approved by OC Investigation and continually reviewed throughout the investigation to keep abreast of any developments.
How is the integrity of electronic exhibits register protected? (IMT now?)
By only allowing access (password) for OC Exhibits and typist for alterations although every member of investigation should be able to view it. (IMT now?)
The OC Exhibits has responsibility to maintain an awareness of the significance of each exhibit and what examinations may be available.
What other specific matters regarding each exhibit must the OC Exhibits determine?
The OC Exhibits will determine, plan and record the examination and interrogations of every exhibit and establish its relevance to the investigation.
OC Exhibits is responsible for the evidential value of each exhibit and what else?
For establishing required standards for recovery, handling, labeling, storage, submission to experts, presentation at court and disposal of exhibits, and ensuring these processes are completed in accordance with the requirements, set by OC Investigation and the serious crime template. The OC Exhibits must communicate required standards to all investigation team members, usually at investigation conferences.
Describe four of the responsibilities of the OC Exhibits in a serious crime investigation?
- to maintain physical security of exhibits
- to maintain continuity of all exhibits
- to submit exhibits for examinations
- to produce exhibits in court
What are two things that are done at a forensic strategy meeting?
- what examinations ESR and others could conduct on exhibit
- the priority each examination should receive
