Forensics Unit 2

Class Evidence

Characteristics shared by a group of sources, such as blood type and tire tracks, providing general information.

Individual Evidence

Unique evidence that can be definitively linked to one individual or object, such as fingerprints and DNA.

Chain of Custody

The process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence from the crime scene to court.

4th Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures and requires probable cause for warrants.

Mincy v. State (1978)

A landmark case that determined probable cause alone doesn't justify a warrantless search.

Crime Scene Processing

The systematic approach to collecting and analyzing evidence at a crime scene.

Evidence Collection Principles

Includes preserving chain of custody, documenting everything, and preventing cross-contamination.

Search Patterns

Techniques used to thoroughly search a crime scene, including grid and spiral searches.

Forensic Pathology

The branch of pathology that determines the cause of death by examining a corpse.

Exigent Circumstances

Situations that allow law enforcement to conduct a search without a warrant when immediate action is necessary.

Evidence Teams

Groups of specialized personnel involved in the processing of a crime scene, including investigators and technicians.

Scientific Method Application

Use of a systematic process in forensic science to test hypotheses and analyze evidence.

Ballistic Markings

Unique impressions left on bullets or casings that can link them to a specific firearm.

Trace Evidence

Small quantities of material found at a crime scene that can include hair, fiber, or soil.

Landmark Forensic Cases

Important legal cases that have shaped the principles and procedures of forensic investigation.

Proper Protective Equipment

Gear worn by forensic investigators to ensure safety and integrity of evidence during collection.

Eyewitness Testimony

Evidence given by individuals who observed events related to the crime in question.

Debris Field Reconstruction

The process of analyzing the spread of debris at a crime scene to determine the nature of an incident.

Ransom Note Examination

A forensic analysis technique used to determine the author and intentions behind a ransom note.

Lindbergh Kidnapping

A case that highlighted early forensic techniques including handwriting analysis.

JFK Assassination

A historical event analyzed through forensic methods to understand shooting sequences and trajectories.

Preservation of Evidence Integrity

Ensuring that evidence remains unchanged and reliable from collection to presentation in court.

Grid Search

A method of searching a crime scene in a grid pattern to ensure thorough coverage.

Sealed Plastic Containers

Used to collect wet evidence to prevent contamination and degradation.

Probable Cause

The standard for law enforcement to obtain a warrant, requiring reasonable grounds to believe a crime has occurred.