Forensics: Chapter 2- Crime Scene Investigation Bd

When sketching a crime scene, it is important to identify a scale to maintain the correlation between evidence and the area. This is because a scale allows the sketch to accurately represent the dimensions and distances within the crime scene. Without a scale, the sketch may be misleading and not accurately reflect the actual size and layout of the scene. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a scale when sketching a crime scene to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the sketch as a tool for investigation and analysis.

The correct answer is "All of these choices" because crime scene investigators typically include recorders to document the data, sketch artists to create sketches of the scene, and photographers to capture photographs of the crime scene. These different roles work together to ensure that all aspects of the crime scene are thoroughly documented and preserved as evidence.

In a crime scene sketch, it is important to draw each piece of evidence accurately to provide an accurate representation of the crime scene. This helps investigators and forensic experts analyze the evidence and make informed conclusions. Additionally, including identification keys to label the evidence helps in organizing and documenting the different pieces of evidence, making it easier to refer to and understand during investigations. Therefore, the statement is true.

Signing your name over the seal when packaging material helps ensure the accuracy of the chain of custody. By doing so, it provides a clear indication of who has had control and possession of the package, which is important for maintaining the integrity and security of the contents. This practice helps to establish accountability and can be useful in legal or regulatory contexts where the chain of custody needs to be documented and verified.

Police officers are usually the first to arrive at a crime scene because they are responsible for maintaining public safety and responding to emergency calls. They are trained to secure the area, assess the situation, and gather initial evidence. Crime scene investigators and detectives may be called in later to conduct a more thorough investigation and collect additional evidence. Medical examiners typically arrive after the scene has been secured to examine the body and determine the cause of death.

The responsibility of securing the crime scene falls on the first responding police officer. They are the ones who arrive at the scene first and their primary duty is to ensure the preservation and protection of the crime scene. This involves preventing unauthorized access, maintaining the integrity of evidence, and establishing a perimeter to prevent contamination or tampering. Crime scene investigators, detectives, and specialists may be called in later to assist with the investigation, but it is ultimately the initial police officer's responsibility to secure the scene.

The primary crime scene refers to the location where the murder actually took place. It is the initial site where the crime was committed and is of utmost importance in gathering evidence and conducting investigations. Therefore, the statement that the primary crime scene is where the murder occurred is true.

The correct answer is "All of these choices" because trace evidence refers to any small piece of physical evidence that can be transferred between people or objects, and the examples given (hair, blood drops, fingerprints) are all types of trace evidence. Therefore, all of these choices are correct examples of trace evidence.

The statement is false because an evidence log and a chain of custody must be attached to the evidence container. These documents are crucial in maintaining the integrity and accountability of the evidence throughout the legal process. The evidence log provides a detailed record of the evidence, including its description, condition, and any actions taken with it. The chain of custody documents the chronological history of the evidence, documenting who had possession of it at all times. These measures are necessary to ensure that the evidence is admissible in court and to prevent tampering or mishandling of the evidence.

Direct evidence refers to evidence that directly proves a fact without the need for any inference or presumption. In this case, an eyewitness statement serves as direct evidence because it provides firsthand information about an alleged fact. The eyewitness has personally observed the event or situation and can testify to its occurrence. Therefore, the statement supports the alleged fact and can be considered direct evidence.

Class evidence refers to evidence that can be associated with a group of persons or things rather than an individual person or thing. This type of evidence helps narrow down the identity of the individuals or objects involved by establishing common characteristics or traits shared by the group. It is not specific to an individual person or a subgroup within the larger group. Therefore, the correct answer is that class evidence narrows an identity to a group of persons or things.

Dirt is not classified as a type of individual evidence. Individual evidence refers to physical evidence that can be linked to a specific person or source. Dirt, on the other hand, is a common substance that can be found in various locations and does not possess unique characteristics that can be used for individual identification. Therefore, the correct answer is false.

Class evidence refers to evidence that can be associated with a group or class of people or things, rather than a specific individual or thing. It does not identify a particular person or thing, but rather provides information about a larger group or category. Therefore, the statement that class evidence identifies a particular person or thing is incorrect.

Locard's Principle states that when two objects come into contact, there is a transfer of trace evidence between them. This means that whenever people or objects interact, they leave behind and take with them microscopic evidence such as fibers, hair, DNA, fingerprints, etc. This principle is the foundation of forensic science and is used to link individuals to crime scenes or to establish connections between different pieces of evidence. It emphasizes the importance of properly collecting, preserving, and analyzing trace evidence in criminal investigations.

A knife should be packaged in a cardboard box because it provides a sturdy and secure enclosure that can prevent any accidental injuries or damage during transportation. The box can also be easily sealed and labeled, ensuring that the contents are clearly identified and handled appropriately. Using a resealable plastic bag or a paper bag may not offer the same level of protection and security as a cardboard box. Therefore, a cardboard box is the most suitable option for packaging a knife.

A bloody shirt should be packaged in a paper bag because it allows for proper ventilation, preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. Additionally, a paper bag absorbs any excess moisture, which helps preserve the integrity of the evidence. The use of a paper bag also prevents cross-contamination and ensures that the blood does not spread to other items.

Hair found at a crime scene is not classified as physical evidence. While hair can provide valuable information such as DNA analysis, it is considered biological evidence rather than physical evidence. Physical evidence typically refers to tangible objects such as weapons, fingerprints, or footprints that can be directly observed or measured. Biological evidence, on the other hand, includes items such as blood, saliva, or semen that contain biological material and can be used for forensic analysis.