Introduction to Forensics Unit 1, Part 1

What is the goal of forensics?

To uncover the truth through science

What is the proper method of transporting a microscope?

By the arm and base

Which objective lens should you never use in conjunction with the coarse adjustment knob?

High power lense

When using a microscope, how will we see a specimen? Will we see if just as it was placed under the microscope?

You’ll have a close up of a specimen

What is deductive reasoning?

Taking consequences from facts using a series of logical steps

How do people process information/stimuli that bombards them on a daily basis?

The brain filters the information

What is the problem with trusting eyewitnesses at a crime scene?

They might be biased or influenced by their surroundings

How can we, as forensic scientists, become better observers?

Make connections, never jump to conclusions, etc

What is the purpose of the innocence project?

To reexamine post conviction cases that were wrongfully convicted

What piece of evidence does the innocence project use to help set innocent people free?

DNA

What percentage of wrongful conviction cases has the Innocence Project helped solve?

87%

Why is the Chain of Custody important to follow?

It tells people where evidence was and who had it. Keeps track

What are the 7 S’s of crime scene investigation?

Secure, separate, scan, see, sketch, search and secure/collect

What is a bindle?

A secure envelope like paper fold

How is wet evidence collected?

Dried or placed in breathable packaging

How is small, dry evidence collected?

Placed and folded in a secure bindle

If someone receives bagged evidence with a signature on a label, how must they go about opening the bag to get the evidence?

They must cut the bottom of the bag

What happens when a first responder “secures a crime scene”?

They clear the area of any unauthorized personnel and block the scene off with crime scene tape