Crime Scene Investigation: Procedures, Evidence, and Roles

What is the primary responsibility of the first responding officer at a crime scene?

To secure the crime scene and ensure medical assistance for individuals in need.

What role do photographers play at a crime scene?

They take overview and close-up photos to document details and comparison photos.

What is the purpose of the sketcher at a crime scene?

To create a rough draft of the scene and a final sketch showing all recovered items and important features.

What must a note taker include in their documentation at a crime scene?

A detailed written description of the scene and the location of physical evidence.

What is the role of the evidence collector at a crime scene?

To bring packaging materials and tools to collect evidence while preventing cross-contamination.

What are the three methods of recording a crime scene?

Photography, sketching, and note-taking.

What is the correct procedure for collecting different items of evidence?

Each item must be placed in separate containers to prevent damage and cross-contamination.

What type of evidence should be collected in rigid containers?

Bullets, cartridge cases, and glass.

What type of evidence is typically packaged in plastic or paper envelopes?

Hair, fiber, and trace evidence.

What is the purpose of the Druggist Fold?

To package small amounts of trace evidence in a folded paper for convenience.

What is Rigor Mortis and when does it occur?

It is the stiffening of muscles after death, occurring within the first 24 hours and disappearing within 36 hours.

What is Livor Mortis?

The settling of blood in areas of the body closest to the ground, beginning immediately after death and continuing for up to 12 hours.

What does Algor Mortis refer to?

The loss of heat in the body after death, typically losing 1 to 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit per hour.

What is the purpose of crime scene forms such as the entry log?

To track all individuals entering and leaving the crime scene.

What is the chain of custody?

A list of all persons who came into possession of an item of evidence, ensuring continuity of possession.

What is a standard/reference sample in forensic investigation?

Physical evidence with a known origin, such as blood or hair from a suspect, used for comparison with crime scene evidence.

What are the characteristics of a successful crime scene investigation?

Properly securing the scene, conducting a preliminary exam, taking photos, sketches, notes, and properly collecting evidence.

What can lead to an unsuccessful crime scene investigation?

Improperly secured scenes, unauthorized personnel, inadequate documentation, or failure to collect evidence.

What are the four search patterns used in crime scene investigations?

Spiral search, strip/line search, grid search, and quadrant search.

What is the role of a forensic anthropologist?

To identify and examine human skeletal remains.

What does forensic entomology study?

The relationship between insects and criminal investigations, often used to estimate time of death.