Proper Documentation and Collection of Evidence Flashcards
Define the term evidence.
Anything that can give or substantiate information in a legal investigation.
Describe the origin of the term evidence.
Derived from Latin “evidentia” (to be visible)
List the three types of evidence.
Testimonial
Documentary
Physical
List the responsibilities for evidence from time of collection to court.
4
Identify what it is
Where it was found
Prove continuity/chain of custody
Describe any changes to the evidence
What occurs during a scene assessment?
5
Gathering of all relvent information
Information exchange between law enforcement to develop investigative strategies
Identifying and locating required resources
Allocating roles and responsibilities
Potential hazards and PPE
What is the purpose of a scene assessment?
Allows for development of a plan for the coordinated identification, collection and preservation of physical evidence.
What is the purpose of the initial briefing?
3
Speak with patrol officers or other investigators on scene since forensic investigators are not first on scene
Ensure scene perimeter is sufficient
Ensure scene security is in place
What type of information is gathered in the initial briefing?
6
What has happened
Who is involved
When did this happen
Who has been through the scene
Is there video/has it been reviewed
Do we have permission to enter
What things are accomplished during a scene walkthrough?
6
Gives overview of scene
Helps to plan systematic examination and documentation of the scene
Identify valuable or fragile evidence for documentation ASAP
Establish path of contamination
Gives ideas of possible experts required
Allows for opportunity to ask clarifying questions
What is the path of contamination?
A safe path established that stays away from the evidence in order to prevent destruction or contamination of evidence
What is the path of evidence?
Portion of the scene where evidence is most likely to be found, likely where crime took place. This is the area that has to be protected.
When is initial documentation of the scene completed?
During the scene walkthrough
Give examples of methods for scene documentation.
4
Notes
Photography
Video
Measurements
Give examples of the types of information to be included in scene notes.
9
Recording transient evidence
Scene conditions
Description of location
Describe scene as it appears
Time of arrival/departure
Who is present at the scene
What evidence was located and where
Which items were seized
What type of processing techniques were used on scene
Give examples of transient evidence to make note of.
Smells
Sounds
Sights
Give examples of scene conditions to make note of.
Temperature
Weather
Outline the types of pictures taken when documenting a scene.
6
Exterior then interior
Overall photos with location
Overall, midrange and close-up of areas/items of interest/damages
Location of video cameras
Aerial view
Witness view
What should be paid special attention during scene photography?
5
Point of entry
Point of exit
Attempted entry points
Sequence of events within a building
Area of altercation
What should be done for photography when possible/applicable?
No people in photos
No equipment in photos
Mindful of reflections in mirrors, windows
What is a key thing to keep in mind when photographing a scene?
Linkage
What needs to be included in a scene sketch?
4
Preliminary sketches and measurements
North arrow
Relative locations of evidence
Distance to adjacent buildings or landmarks
True or false: The scene sketch is completed on a separate piece of paper.
False it is done in your notebook
Outline how evidence collection is prioritized.
5
Focus on easily accessible areas first
Select systematic search pattern
Concentrate on most transient evidence
Move from most intrusive to least intrusive
Photograph in situ prior to seizure
True or false: A scene video does not need exhibit markers.
Flase, video with the exhibit markers set up
