crime scene processing

Note Taker

Writes everything that occurs while checking the scene, including all evidence found.

Technician

Discovers evidence and reports it using I (item), T (time), L (location), and COC (chain of custody).

Photographer

Uses three methods of photography:close-ups, mid-range, and overall views.

Sketcher

Utilizes three methods of measurement for creating sketches.

Testimonial Evidence

Statements from eye-witnesses, victims, or suspects.

Behavioral Evidence

Suspect's criminal actions inferred from physical evidence.

Physical Evidence

Any relevant materials or objects associated with the crime scene, victim, suspect, or witness.

Biological/Chemical Evidence

Includes blood, semen, or drugs.

Trace Evidence

Examples include fiber, hair, glass, paint, and soil.

Medical/Digital Evidence

Wounds or electronic devices.

Exclusive Conclusion

Evidence examination that eliminates a suspect.

Link/Association Conclusion

Identifies a person of interest due to a relationship.

Inclusive/Identification Conclusion

Identifies the person who committed the crime.

Inconclusive Conclusion

No decision can be made due to lack of evidence or technology.

Locard’s Exchange Principle

When two objects come into contact, materials are exchanged between them.

Chain of Custody (COC)

Each person documents their responsibility for evidence in chronological order.

Close-Up Photography

Shows details and specific features of impression or evidence.

Mid-Range Photography

Displays the body or tool used in the crime scene.

Overall Photography

Provides a bird's eye view of the entire scene.

Triangular Measurement

Requires two fixed points for sketching.

Baseline Measurement

Another technique needing two fixed points.

Polar Coordination

A measurement technique that also requires two fixed points.

Zone Search Pattern

Each investigator is responsible for one zone in an indoor crime scene.

Spiral Search Pattern

A systematic search method that starts from a central point and moves outward.

Rough/Raw Sketch

Includes measurements taken at the crime scene.

Final Sketch

Usually created using computer software in 3D form.

Unknown Sample

A questioned sample at the scene needing evidential value.

Known Sample

An exemplar from a known source for comparison.

Substrate Control Sample

A reference sample located next to the unknown sample.

False Positive

A type 1 error where the wrong person is implicated.

False Negative

A type 2 error where the correct criminal is not identified.

Positive Control Test

Uses known substances to ensure a positive result.

Negative Control Test

Uses known negative substances to ensure a negative result.

Search Warrant

A legal document issued by a judge based on probable cause.

Arrest Warrant

A legal order issued by the supreme court under the 4th amendment.

Plain View Doctrine

Police can confiscate items visible in public places.

Open Field Doctrine

Refers to areas like forests or grasslands where different rules apply.

Emergency Situation Exception

Allows police to act without a warrant in urgent situations.

Vehicle Inventories

An exception allowing searches without a warrant under certain conditions.

Types of Evidence Containers

Various containers used to preserve different types of evidence.

Types of Crime Protection

Different gloves used to protect against contamination.

Key Points from Video

Highlights the use of gloves and the time taken for lab results.