Flashcards

Investigation

A search for the truth.

Key attributes of investigators

Reason, experience, dedication.

Biases

Cognitive limitations and personal motivations that affect how investigators perceive information.

Goudge Inquiry (2008)

Examined the state of forensic pathology in Ontario to avoid wrongful convictions.

Chief tenet of Goudge Inquiry

Think truth (vs. think dirty).

Evidence-based approach

Importance of collecting all evidence to ensure accuracy in investigations.

Differences: Hypothesis vs. knowledge

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation, while knowledge is based on evidence.

First officer duties at a crime scene

Protect life and property, preserve the scene, gather witness information.

Prevent contamination

Essential to maintain the integrity of the crime scene.

Witness

Someone present at a crime scene who observed something relevant and voluntarily provides information.

Informant

Someone who gives information to the police, typically for compensation.

Confidential Informant (CI)

An informant assured of confidentiality.

Agent

Someone directed by police to meet with possible suspects and report back.

Subpoena

A legal document requiring attendance in court, cannot be used to compel an interview.

Competence (Canada Evidence Act)

Legal capacity to testify excluding certain mental conditions.

Compellability (Canada Evidence Act)

Ability of the state to require testimony, with exceptions for spouses and self-incrimination.

Morris v The Queen

Established that only relevant evidence should be admitted in court.

Admissible evidence

Witnesses may testify about their own experiences.

Inadmissible evidence

Includes hearsay evidence (with exceptions) and opinion evidence (with exceptions).