Lec 1

Question 1

When did CSI become a mainstream TV show?

Answer 1

October 2000

Question 2

What significant event in forensic science occurred in August 1987?

Answer 2

DNA first used to identify a murder suspect in England (Colin Pitchfork)

Question 3

What principle states that every contact leaves a trace?

Answer 3

Locard’s Exchange Principle

Question 4

Define forensic science.

Answer 4

The application of science to matters of the law.

Question 5

What does the Criminal Code of Canada define?

Answer 5

Criminal acts and procedures in Canada

Question 6

What is a crime scene?

Answer 6

Any physical scene that may provide evidence of a crime.

Question 7

Fill in the blank: Crime scene evidence may include _______.

Answer 7

physical items, often referred to as exhibits

Question 8

What is the role of forensic members in crime scene investigation?

Answer 8

Recording, documenting, examining the scene, collecting and preserving evidence.

Question 9

How has the enrollment in forensic science programs changed?

Answer 9

Applications increased 30% but stabilized at around 100 students in 2016.

Question 10

True or False: The scientific method is not applicable to crime scene examination.

Answer 10

False

Question 11

What is the importance of crime scene boundaries?

Answer 11

To establish the full extent of a crime scene.

Question 12

What are some roles of forensic members in crime scene investigation?

Answer 12

Crime Scene Investigator (CSI), Forensic Identification Officer (FIO), Forensic Identification Assistant (FIA).

Question 13

What is required for investigative note-taking?

Answer 13

Permanent written record of facts, actions, and accurate information.

Question 14

What should be documented in a forensic notebook?

Answer 14

Dates, times, events, and all actions taken during an investigation.

Question 15

What is the significance of the notebook in investigations?

Answer 15

It serves as an official, legal document that contains the details of investigations.

Question 16

Fill in the blank: Forensic identification services are a _______.

Answer 16

support service

Question 17

What are the consequences of missed or misinterpreted evidence?

Answer 17

Could result in no one being charged or the wrong person being charged with a crime.

Question 18

List some forensic roles involved in crime scene investigation.

Answer 18

• Forensic artist
• Document examiner
• AFIS technician
• Photo technician
• DNA Coordinator

Question 19

What is the future trend in forensic roles?

Answer 19

The role for civilians in forensics is growing and may evolve to replace uniform members.

Question 20

What is a common training requirement for forensic identification officers in Ontario?

Answer 20

Training at the Ontario Police College or the Canadian Police College.

Question 21

True or False: Civilian forensic members are decreasing in number.

Answer 21

False

Question 22

What is the role of a Crime Scene Support Technician (CSST)?

Answer 22

Support various forensic roles in crime scene investigation.

Question 23

What should be avoided when taking notes for investigations?

Answer 23

Additions or deletions that distort the facts.

Question 24

What was a significant wrongful conviction case mentioned?

Answer 24

Brenda Waudby wrongfully convicted of murdering her young daughter.

Question 25

Fill in the blank: Crime scene investigators should maintain _______ from the lead investigator.

Answer 25

arms length

Question 26

What does the term ‘exhibits’ refer to in crime scene evidence?

Answer 26

Physical items recovered at or in relation to a crime scene.

Question 27

What is the significance of keeping a bound notebook for lab work?

Answer 27

To ensure all notes are recorded in a permanent, official format.

Question 28

What key aspect must be documented in a forensic notebook?

Answer 28

Every page must be accounted for and numbered.

Question 29

What are the potential negatives of increasing civilian roles in forensics?

Answer 29

Concerns about the adequacy of training and experience compared to uniform members.

Question 30

What is one of the first steps in applying the scientific method to crime scene investigation?

Answer 30

Observation of the crime scene and evidence.