General Flashcards

Question

Incidents reported to Police and not initially identifiable as a homicide (Examples of situations which may in fact be a homicide)

Answer 1

* Report of missing person * Sudden unexplained death of an infant * Unexplained death * Report of violence where no fatalities are anticipated * Crime scene without body present * Hit and run vehicle crash * Suicide * Fatal fire * Drug related deaths

Answer 2

* ID and location of suspect * A first hand account of what the complainant / informant knows * Precise details of the location of the scene * Circumstances leading to discovery * Identity of victim * Details of anyone else at the scene * Full contact details of the complainant / informant

Answer 3

* Initial conference * Regular conference * Debreifing conference * Phase team conference: Run by O/C phase and attended by his / her staff only

Answer 4

* Notification to and response from the Coroner * Views of the pathologist, ESR forensic scientist and Crown solicitor attending the crime scene * Consultation with other relevant experts * Requirement for any examination or action needed before removal based on the facts of the case * Best method and route for body removal to minimise contamination, e.g. stepping plates * Supervision of the body removal * Chain of custody of the body from the scene to the mortuary

Answer 5

* Notify the corner early of the death * Arrange the PM in consultation with the coroner * Consult the pathologist (Simon Stables) before the PM commences regarding the relevance and benefit of conduct X-Ray or CT / CAT scans of the body (ACN)

Answer 6

Primary reason is to establish cause of death - will provide further info to drive investigation such as: * Determining where possible the mode and time of death * Determining the nature and size of weapons used * Determing the approx height and stature of suspect * Providing areas of interest for subsequent interviews of witnesses / suspects * Negating possible defences * Identify the victim, if ID not yet established

Answer 7

* Do not attempt to restore the scene to its original unchanged condition * Make enquiries to enable the original unchanged scene to be subsequently reconstructed and photographed if required

Answer 8

Initial action at the scene is crucial but may also present physical risk as well as risk of contamination to the scene * Before IA can be safely undertaken, those in charge of scene must conduct an appreciation on the known info, to decide how and what form of IA should be taken * Subject to the appreciation of risks, a reconnaissance should be conducted to establish who is present at the scene, including injured people / offender * The first priority will always be to ensure the safety of attending police members (SAR)

Answer 9

1. Obtain a medical opinion as to the victim's current medical condition 2. Seize the victim's clothing and other possessions as evidence 3. Establish the victim's identity 4. Obtain a pre-transfusion blood sample using Police toxicology kit containers (hospital ones may contain gel which will affect result) 5. Seize any discarded bandages used to cover gunshot wounds & record the position on the victim where each bandage has been applied 6. Arrange firearm residue samples 7. Note and photograph any injuries

Answer 10

Once the location parameters are set, establish whether there are any people that the people carrying out the enquiries should be aware of, for example: * Violent offenders * Persons wanted by Police for other matters & WTA * Group with particular linguistic or cultural needs * Local ingredients or issues which residents may raise with Police

Answer 11

Behavioural Science Unit or geographical profilers may be consulted to assist with setting parameters or identifying locations where suspects are likely to frequent or reside

Answer 12

* Copy of the notification to the corner (Pol 47) * Medical Examination Kit * Toxicology Kit * Medical records of the deceased where available * Comprehensive photographs and/or videos taken at the scene

Answer 13

Some key areas for consideration include: * Photos & video recordings taken at scene * Actions of the first responders * ID of the body * History of the body including medical history * Time frames relating to the finding of the body * Environment factors at the scene like weather conditions

Answer 14

Section 38 Coroners Act 2006: * The pathologist * The coroner * A doctor who treated the deceased * A doctor, nurse or funeral director representing the deceased * Police * Any other person authorised by the coroner

Answer 15

* Consider what health risks may be present by handling the body * Cover the hands, feet and head with paper bags secured with tape to prevent trace evidence being lost when the body is moved. Wide tape should be used taped around the bag at a suitable anchoring point that will secure the bag to the limb and prevent it falling off. The tape shouldn't be too tight as it may create new marks on the body (do not apply tape directly to the skin) * Ensure clothing on the body is not contaminated by contact with foreign objects * Wrap the body in a plastic sheet and place in body bag * Carefully search underneath where the body lay * Retain as exhibits, all sheets, bags or other materials used to transport the body

Answer 16

The OC must not make any notes of discussions concerning the PM unless specifically directed by the OC investigation and the pathologist

Answer 17

* PM scene exhibit schedule * Notebook * FWS Toxicology samples must be delivered to ESR ASAP to prevent decay.

Answer 18

* OC exhibits must update the exhibit register with results of exhibit examination * OC exhibits should bring such info to the attention of OC investigation and not assume that they are aware of it by other means * Where OC exhibits becomes aware that further enquiries are required in relation to a particular exhibit, this must be highlighted to the 2IC so that follow-up enquiries can be initiated.

Answer 19

10000 - Admin 15000 - Victim 20000 - Witnesses 25000 - Area canvass 30000 - Scenes 70000 - Suspects

Answer 20

* Keep all members of the team up to date with developments in the enquiry * Give team members the opportunity to exchange views and pass on important information * Give the 2IC the opportunity to pass on instructions to staff on the management and other administrative matters * GIve the OC opportunity to brief the team on important investigative topics, priorities and which lines of enquiry to follow

Answer 21

Before trial, OC Investigation (in conjunction with OC Exhibits) decides which exhibits are relevant and determines the significance of any forensic examinations in which to establish the appropriate manner in which the exhibits and exam results are to be presented at trial.

Answer 22

OC Area Canvass should continually review completed canvass forms in order to: * Evaluate the quality of completed work and provide quality assurance * Identify lines of enquiry to be highlighted to 2IC * Monitor ongoing process of the canvass * Facilitate the detailed recording of progress

Answer 23

* Reports to OC Investigation and together must ensure that canvass is conducted throughly and recorded accurately * Must ensure the area canvass team remains focused and that the canvass results in efficient use of resources and return of relevant and manageable information and material RTA – Report, Thorough, Accurate FERM – Focused, Efficient, Relevant, Manageable

Answer 24

Phase OC must submit report to OC investigation outling circumstances of this particular aspect of the investigation Report should include: * Summary of all action taken * Any significant findings highlighted * Attention drawn to any action that has been undertaken which was outside the original phase strategy

Answer 25

* Recording, labelling, packaging, sealing and securing all physical exhibits relating to the body, including samples taken during PM * All exhibits must be packaged and sealed before leaving the mortuary without exception and will be recorded in a scene exhibit schedule

Answer 26

* Early identification of a suspect * Recovery of evidence or info relevant to the offence * Prevention of the imminent disposal or destruction of evidence connected to the investigation * Prevention of the commission of other offences (PREP)

Answer 27

* Arrange a detailed interview and statement * Clear the scene of persons if possible, contain them nearby * Exercise warrantless powers if appropriate (S&S 2012) * ID and locate complainant & conduct a prelim * Take control of the scene (ACE IT)

Answer 28

* Provide immediate appropriate info to the family concerning the death of the victim and explain what happens next in respect of the body * Provide the family with coronial booklet "When someone dies" which sets out the rights of the family and explains the coronial process * Establish from family any immediate evidence info or rumours (pass to OC investigation) * Give or facilitate initial practical supports (transport) * As far as possible, protect the family from unwarranted media intrusion P E P S I - Provide booklet, Establish evidence/rumours, Protect from media, Support practically, Inform re death and process

Answer 29

* Evidential value of each exhibit * Investigative opportunties presented by each exhibit * Further enquiries that are needed

Answer 30

Homicide or serious crime involving a Maori victim. An ILO must be engaged as early as possible. This will support an understanding and awareness of the Maori traditions, protocol and beliefs and enhance relations between the investigation, family of the deceased and the Maori community.

Answer 31

Responsible for supervising members of the suspect team for the purpose of: * Obtaining info about suspects and POIs as they are identified by the investigation * Thoroughly profiling and investigating all suspects and persons of interest to enable the OC Investigation to establish their involvement * Seeking evidence to cover all elements of the offence * Mitigating and dealing with possible defences that may be raised where appropriate

Answer 32

* To maintain security of exhibits (safe storage) * To maintain continuity of all exhibits (chain of custody) * To submit exhibits for examination * To produce exhibits in court

Answer 33

* Profiling the victim * Preparing the family tree * Gathering all relevant info from the family * Taking statements to ID the victim

Answer 34

In some cases, the area canvass should be conducted at the same time as the original offence occurred to capture people who regularly pass through that area at that time of day e.g. a homicide of a person in a park at the early hours of the morning

Answer 35

* Media * Poster campaign * Mail drop * High profile Police presence using a caravan

Answer 36

Should be set for: * The offence * Sightings, times victim, witness or offender was seen * Previous residents and visitors at the scene * Considerations of peoples varying work times

Answer 37

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 the admissibility of exhibits.

Answer 38

1. Summarise the situation and detail all duties and areas of responsibility of each canvass team member 2. Emphasise the need for thoroughness and that every person in every house must be seen personally 3. Stress that questionnaire is only a guide 4. Advise evidence of possible probative value must be obtained in FWS not NB 5. Consider visiting the canvass area to record every address including flats and vacant sections 6. Ensure all forms are completed 7. Recon completed locations with master copy to avoid duplications 8. Advise staff on: * What action to take if they believe they have ID'd suspect * What actions to take if they locate items of evidential value * What action to take if individuals refuse to assist * How to complete the correspondence flow

Answer 39

* Must be regularly reviewed and amended accordingly as new evidence is gathered * Subsequent canvass of the same area or different areas may be required as facts and circumstances change * Changes may be required to questions used in any subsequent enquiries

Answer 40

* Sighting of the victim or offender before or after the event * Sighting of the relevant property or vehicles * Sighting of potential witnesses * Obtaining key information to drive the investigation or develop lines of enquiry

Answer 41

* ID the offender * ID witness * ID and locate evidence, vehicles, discarded clothing, weapons and other articles * Gathering information

Answer 42

* The circumstances of the offence including an analysis of the scene and witness evidence available * The full details of all persons of interest and any suspect where the identity of suspects are known * Details of any descriptions of the suspect provided by witnesess * Whether any particular MO / crime signatures have been identified CUCK - Circumstances, Unknown (Suspect details), Crime Signature / MO, Known (Suspect details)

Answer 43

* Which addresses have been visited * Which occupants interviewed * The documentation completed * Any relevant comments made (AODC)

Answer 44

* The Exhibit Register is an electronic document which forms the master record for every exhibit during an investigation. * OC Exhibits is responsible for entering information from each scene exhibit schedule onto the ER * To protect the integrity of the electronic exhibit register, only the OC Exhibits and typist should have the password access to make alterations to it, although every member of the investigation should be able to view it.

Answer 45

May include confirming things such as: * Key locations where door to door enquiries have been undertaken * Parameters of initial Police activity * Who has been spoken to at what address * Details of premises where there was no response * Any intel obtained * Whether persons have a credible alibi

Answer 46

Before an area canvass commences, the OC area canvass in consultation with the OC investigation, should conduct an initial appreciation to determine whether a full area canvass phase is required and the method and timing of enquiries to be made

Answer 47

The OC Investigation, OC Area Canvass and OC Suspect should attend the general scene as soon as practicable, to make a reconnaissance of the area and conduct an appreciation and set the parameters and objectives of the canvass. This will also provide a clear perspective of the area, when it is referred to subsequently in statements and briefings.

Answer 48

* Arrange for them to provide FWS, which is provided to 2IC * Record on their part B form they have made a FWS and add a description of the person interviewed * Ensure witness info is conveyed to OC Area Canvass and 2IC investigation as soon as practicable * Give part B form to OC Area Canvass

Answer 49

Freeze, control, guard, preserve 1. Identify * Gather information and carry out an initial assessment of the scene * Note and record observations * Provide SITREP to comms * Consider common approach path 2. Secure * Where necessary exercise S116 S&S to secure * Establish cordons using Police tape * Arrange crime scene log * Prevent unauthorised persons entering or leaving the scene 3. Preserve * Consider best path into the scene * Record any movement / action taken in the scene * Preserve what is there and leave it in 'situ'. Ensure nothing is touched or move. Must be kept in original state. 4. Consider * If initial photographs of the scene / persons present are necessary 5. Record * Observe and record full notes of precise details of the scene, particularly location of victim * Complete a sketch of the scene * Photos of the scene and consider using video recording * Identify anything which is moved, noting the original and eventual position

Answer 50

* Planned * Recorded * Focused and managed so they are not overly drawn out

Answer 51

* Note any injuries such as scratches or bruises * Take samples ID as necessary by OC investigation using MEK (saliva, head hair, pubic & body hair, fingernail scrapings) * Swab hands for firearm residue ASAP (if relevant) * Provide professional opinion regarding suspect condition * Record any explanations or comments made by the suspect about the offence or injuries caused

Answer 52

* Statement of ID * Copy of the POL 47 or POL47A (Child U2) * Copy of deceased person certification POL265 * Copy of the deceased person ID POL265A

Answer 53

OC body must follow set steps: 1. The body must only be stripped in the presence of the pathologist 2. Remove the body from the secure mortuary fridge and assist mortuary staff to take the body into PM exam room 3. Remove the body from the body bag causing minimal disturbance to the body 4. Take possession of the body bag and any sheets or wrapping used to transport the body as exhibits 5. If necessary, direct Police photographer to take more pictures 6. Remove items of clothing from body 7. Make an inventory of clothing & possessions as each item is removed 8. Label each item of clothing and possessions 9. Seal each item in a separate paper or container

Answer 54

1. Record the position of the body by sketch plan and direct a Police photographer to take photos. Consider video recording or other imaging techniques 2. In consultation with the crime scene coordinator or OC scene, consider marking and recording the position of the body before moving it e.g. by measuring the distance from at least two nearby fixed features 3. Record all details of the position of the body: * Position of the limbs * Appearance of the body * Wounds and clothing * Direction of any trails of blood present on body * Lividity if present * Extent of any rigor mortis present

Answer 55

If members of the media are present on scene: * Keep them away from the immediate crime scene cordon * Make no comment about the incident * Consult with OC investigation on arrival & explain what happened * Identify members of media and where they are located

Answer 56

* Providing regular feedback on the way canvass enquiries are contributing to the progress of the investigation * Updates on the progress being made with other phases of the enquiry

Answer 57

Route in and out of the scene that all staff / civilians are to use. This path will be a route that avoids any route taken to and from the scene by the suspect or victim. It is best to consider possible approach paths previously used and establish a common approach path early to prevent loss of evidence or cross contamination.

Answer 58

Should be taken. Recommended where evidence would be lost or contaminated by moving the body such as: * Larvae and insects * Potential fingerprint evidence from the skin on the body of the victim and/or items of clothing worn by the body * DNA swabs * Extraneous items: loose hairs, fibres, glass, paint of other fragments * Firearm residue samples

Answer 59

* Attend the briefing of the pathologist by the OC investigation and contribute as required * Ensure photography take appropriate and sufficient photos * Preserve evidence from the body * Arrange for fingerprints and palm prints to be taken if required * Record, label and secure all samples and exhibits associated with the body (APPEAR)

Answer 60

Should be an experienced investigator with awareness of forensic issues. Where this is not possible, OC body may require additional support and/or mentoring.

Answer 61

1. Ensure mortuary staff do not wash the body 2. Ensure the body is labelled and secured in the secure mortuary fridge 3. Retain any key used to secure the body, until it is required for PM 4. Ensure the body remains in its present condition until the commencement of PM 5. Arrange formal ID of the body

Answer 62

* Exhibit label that contains exhibit number and name of Op. Other details like, description of item, details of person finding it, date and location are recorded on scene exhibit schedule * The property is correctly packaged and sealed & the exhibit label is visible and secure on the outside of package * Any prompt action necessary to preserve the exhibit has been taken e.g. drying wet or blood stained items in an appropriate drying facility

Answer 63

* Take possession of all exhibits, including all samples and specialist kit * Any wet or damp exhibits must be unsealed and dried in a controlled environment (Police Dry Room). Once dry can be packaged and resealed. * Hand exhibits to OC exhibit and provide PM scene exhibit schedule, NB and FWS

Answer 64

OC Investigation with OC Body must make appreciation. Should consider: * Authority from the coroner to conduct PM * Consultation with pathologist * Safe custody of exhibits * Identifying who should attend PM * Family / cultural considerations arriving from PM

Answer 65

* When they received custody of the exhibit and from whom * Where and how the exhibit was securely stored * When, why and how the exhibit was moved from one place to another * How the exhibit has been treated, safe guarded and preserved

Answer 66

* An exit plan must be developed before the FLO is deployed and be communicated to the family at the commencement of the deployment * Before being stood down, the FLO should ensure that victim support services are ongoing, where this has been taken up by the family * All conduct by members of the family after the FLO has been stood down must be reported to OC investigation

Answer 67

1. Have an investigative mindset 2. Pay meticulous attention to detail 3. Carry out your assigned tasks efficiently 4. Have good communication skills (written and oral) 5. Work as a team (IM A TEC)

Answer 68

1. Separate suspects from other persons at the scene 2. Consider the condition of the suspect, whether they are injured, under the influence of alcohol, drugs or suffer from a medical or mental impairment or other special consideration 3. Ask them to remain at the scene & to cooperate with Police. ASAP remove the suspect from the scene by consent or with lawful justification 4. If the suspect refuses to cooperate, consider whether grounds exist to arrest them and what the most appropriate offence will be 5. If the suspect is arrested or detained caution them 6. Consider searching the suspect & suspect's vehicle and belongings to prevent disposal of evidence pursuant to S&S 7. Note the suspect's appearance and behaviour

Answer 69

Ensure all relevant and discoverable material is provided to defence counsel Ensure all relevant and non-discoverable material is identified, listed and defence advised Continually assess the risk to ensure that non-discoverable material is identified and not disclosed Continually review to ensure that ongoing lawful justification to withhold exists for each document that is withheld

Answer 70

* What examination ESR and others could conduct on exhibits * The priority each examination should receive * Whether any further work is needed to assist reconstruction * A plan for any work to be completed that is required to assist reconstruction

Answer 71

* The FLO's welfare and safety * Increased monitoring of the FLO's work and interaction with the family * The level of info disclosed to family, and in turn, the suspect * Not using FLO in search and arrest of family member * The possibility of deploying a more experienced FLO if appropriate

Answer 72

* Involves day to day management of the partnership between the family of the deceased and the Police investigation * Primary function of FLO is that of an investigator and not support person * Offer, facilitate and coordinate support that addresses the family's needs

Answer 73

In order to ensure: * There is no unauthorised entry into the scene * Integrity of evidence or potential evidence is secured * Intelligence opportunities are maximised * Contamination issues are managed

Answer 74

* A proven method of problem solving * The process follows a series of set steps to ensure the optimum course of action is decided upon * It considers all appropriate factors and weighs the benefits and risks of all alternative solutions, allowing sound decisions to be taken. * An appreciation is an ongoing process which involves continually thinking through each new piece of information as it is uncovered.

Answer 75

Where OC exhibits becomes aware that further enquiries are required in relation to a particular exhibit, must be highlighted to 2IC so follow-up enquiries can be initiated.

Answer 76

* The relative weight of evidence against a person * The likelihood of them leaving the area * You may be influenced by a particular urgency in solving the case or the availability of staff * Suspects must be investigated in order of priority

Answer 77

* Can only be interviewed under direction of the Crown Solicitor. Investigator must: * Make enquiries to determine the veracity of the alibi * Conduct enquiries as directed by OC investigation and the Crown solicitor including NIA checks on the alibi witness * Forward the results of these enquiries to the Crown Solicitor including any statements obtained.

Answer 78

Where more than one suspect is involved, an appreciation must be made regarding which staff are assigned to seize clothing from suspects. It is vitally important officers involved are fully aware of CC issues where possible, separate officers should be assigned to each suspect. Suspects must be kept apart including during travel in vehicles and when in cells. All clothing should be packaged, labelled and sealed in accordance with standard procedures before transfer to OC exhibits.

Answer 79

1. Immediate DNA swabs of any areas of the witness that the suspect may have touched 2. Immediate DNA swabs of any blood 3. Immediate swabs of any other relevant stains present on the witness 4. Seizure of clothing and footwear 5. Seizure of any items of property touched by the suspect

Answer 80

Before witness is interviewed a plan must be prepared to preserve and recall all available physical evidence including: * DNA * Fingerprints * Clothes * Footwear * Fibres * Body fluids * Glass

Answer 81

* Includes partners, parents, siblings, children, guardians, whanau and any others who have direct and close relationship with the victim * Includes chosen 'family' * Should reflect the victim's culture and lifestyle

Answer 82

* Liaise closely with OC investigation regarding parametres of info to be shared and held back from the family * Familiarise themselves within the enquiry * Familiarise themselves with all the info established concerning the family e.g. language or disability * Establish what info has been given to family * Establish what contact the family has had with Police since the incident / death PC FIN - Parametres, contact, familiarise, info given, needs

Answer 83

* Prepare the victim's family for the anticipated level of media interest and provide them with a copy of the 'media information' letter to family of deceased * Establish family views on media * Consult family before the release of personal details * Where possible, provide copies of media releases to the family before distribution * Inform the victim's family of signifcant developments in the investigation before relaying such information to media

Answer 84

* Inform the family of their rights to register on the victim notification registrar and provide POL1065 if they wish * Make all reasonable efforts to ascertain any views the family have on the accused being released on bail and ensure these views are communicated to the court in grounds for opposing bail form 128 * Inform the victim's family of charges laid or reasons why charges are not laid * Inform the victim's family of the date & place of each court appearance or other court hearing relating to the case * Inform the victim's family of release on bail of the accused

Answer 85

* Gathering and preserving evidence * Documentation

Answer 86

The IA taken by Police is vitally important and will frequently affect the outcome of subsequent enquiries. Reasoned positive action during the initial stages of an investigation can minimise any loss and maximise opportunities to secure relevant information

Answer 87

A crime scene log records the details, time and purpose of all persons who enter, attempt to enter or leave the crime scene, as well as any other activity around the crime scene which the scene guard perceives to be relevant to the case

Answer 88

* The body before it is stripped * The body after it is stripped * Close-up photos of any wounds, marks, internal injuries & unusual features. These photos must include a measuring scale placed in proximity to the feature being photographed to make a permanent record of the dimensions of the feature.

Answer 89

* Mass exhibit handling * Forensic principles * Method of exhibit recovery * Approved procedures for packaging and security of evidence

Answer 90

* Selection of the FLO and criteria employed for the selection * Exit plan for the FLO * Objectives for the family liaison * Information to be released to and withheld from family * Request made by family which have not been agreed to and the reason for this * Liaison with victim support and other services

Answer 91

Use TEDS * What happened * Where exactly the incident happened * When did it happen * Who was involved * What the witness did * Where the witness went * What the witness touched

Answer 92

1. Consider calling an ambo and resuscitation if appropriate. If the victim has to be moved for this purpose note the original body position and record any previous movements 2. Remain with the body until relieved by CIB or supervisor 3. Arrange a doctor to pronounce life extinct, unless obvious 4. Treat the victim as a scene 5. Instruct medical staff to leave clothes on body 6. If medical treatment has been given then request that connecting tubes, needles, bandages and other medical items are left in situ 7. If possible conduct scoping interview with medical staff who treated the victim and establish their actions, apparent course of action and injury type 8. Record body position lividity, obvious injuries and clothing 9. Record all exhibits 10. Provide full info to the OC investigation, at an early stage (NARC IMPROV - Note position, Arrange doctor, Remain with body, Conduct scoping interviews, Instruct med staff to leave clothes, provide aid, record exhibits, OC to be advised, Victim treated as scene)

Answer 93

* Informs all Police what they are expected to achieve * Increases the chances of success re the investigation aims / objectives being met * Establishes a sequence of activities to be carried out * Manages risk * Reduces uncertainty * Eliminates duplication * Ensure nothing is overlooked * Effective use of resources

Answer 94

The OC investigation will determine whether the pathologist and Crown Solicitor will attend the scene to view the body 'in situ' to gain an understanding and interpretation of the injuries.