Serious Crime Miscellaneous Flashcards
OC Exhibits - what are the requirements for the person appointed to the role of O/C Exhibits?
Suitably qualified in terms of training and relevant experience. Whit previous experience in:
- Mass exhibit handling
- Forensic principles
- methods of Recovery
- Approved procedures for packaging and security of evidence
- managing Contamination issues
- use of Standardsed documentation as contained in the SCT
Main functions of a file manager (9)
HOFRISFPT
- assist with establishing and maintaining Investigation Headquarters
- operate the paper flow and associated structure (in accordance with SCDMS outlined in the SCT)
- manage the electronic and physical files relating to the investigation
- support the 2IC by reading all docs for the purpose of highlighting important information to the 2IC
- assist the 2IC with the identification and recording of evidential material
- complete a synopsis of all docs received, excluding docs relating to covert policing activities
- ensure a flow of information throughout the investigation
- assist with the preparation of the prosecution file
- assist with the management of the trial
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:
EOI
- evidential value of each exhibit
- investigative opportunities presented by each exhibit
- further enquiries that are needed
Scene Logs
A scene guard and the log maintained by that person, is employed in order to ensure:
- there is no unauthorised entry into the scene
- integrity of evidence or potential evidence is secured
- contamination issues are managed
- intelligence opportunities are maximised
Risk assessment and Appreciation
Consider:
Physical risks (safety of attending Police) and risk of contamination to the scene.
Appreciation should encompass:
the known information, to dictate how, why and what form initial action should take.
( who is present at the scene, other injured people, or a hidden offender.)
What points should be covered in an area canvass briefing?
- Summarise the situation
- Emphasise the need for thoroughness
- What information is not to be disclosed
- Stress questionnaire is a guide only
- Evidence of probative value to be written in FWS form
- Expectations regarding correspondence
- Provde guidance on what action to take if 1)the offender is identified, 2)locate evidence, 3)people refuse to assist
What is the purpose of an Area Canvass?
Serves to identify evidence and information that may assist the investigation
To methodically conduct an area canvass to identify or contact:
- The offender of associate
- Witness
- Evdence or exhibits
- establish significant facts
When considering a suspect within the family, the OC Investigation must review the plan regularly, which should consider:
FLO’s:
- welfare and safety
- needs to be clear in their interactions with the family
- not to be used in any search or arrest of a family member
- Investigative or evidential impact of deployment
Family Liaison Plan, the plan should be recorded and consider:
Staff
• selection of the FLO and criteria employed for the selection
• exit plan for the FLO
• objectives of the family liaison
Information
• information to be released to and withheld from, the family
• assessing the most appropriate methods of conducting interviews with family members
Liaison
• Victim support liaison
• Requests/complaints made by family
Before any arrest/termination the OC Suspects must consult with OC Investigation regarding an arrest strategy. What must they ensure?
- an investigator is appointed to be responsible for each suspect. Where possible make at an early stage to allow preparation.
- the decision to prosecute, choice of charges and prosecution processes follow Solicitor-General’s Prosecution Guidelines
- clarity on position by police on bail
- authority to engage Crown Solicitor obtained from PPS
- family of deceased updated via FLO
- prompt preparation of prosecution file
- compliance by Disclosure Manager or File Manager with the Criminal Disclosure Act 2008
In order for a ‘dying declaration’ to be considered admissible evidence under Evidence Act 2006, s18(1)(a) , the court must be satisfied of what?
The content of the statement and the person who made it are reliable.
Purpose of OC Exhibits
OC is responsible for:
An accurately recorded exhibit package by
- establishing and maintaining exhibit management systems
- maintaining the physical security and continuity of all exhibits
- and availability of exhibits thorughout the court process
Definition of an AIM
An aim is a short (one line) statement which succinctly demonstrates a single objective:
What is a factor?
A Factor is any circumstance or fact that could possibly have an effect on the manner in which a desired outcome will be achieved
