Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Science

What is forensic science?

The application of methods from sciences and social sciences to criminal investigations.

What is the main difference between forensic analysis and other forms of analysis?

Forensic analysis deals with crimes that have already occurred and cannot be repeated.

What are the four aspects of forensic investigation?

1. Crime 2. Evidence 3. Analysis 4. Court

What is the definition of a crime scene?

The place where a crime has been committed, which can include physical structures and bodies.

What is Locard's Principle?

Whenever there is contact between two objects, they exchange material.

What are the two types of investigations in forensic science?

1. Civil Investigations 2. Criminal Investigations

What is the importance of a crime scene?

It contains physical evidence, eyewitness accounts, helps in criminal profiling, and informs law enforcement strategies.

What is transient evidence?

Temporary evidence that can be easily changed or lost, such as odors or temperatures.

What is conditional evidence?

Evidence produced by a set of actions or inactions, such as computer settings or medical conditions.

What is the role of forensic scientists in evidence collection?

They must be careful when providing evidence as they could face serious consequences.

Who is considered the father of documented analysis in forensic science?

Osborn

What technique did Bertillon develop for identification?

Anthropometry, which identifies individuals based on bodily measurements.

What did Francis Galton study?

Fingerprints and their classification.

What procedure did Leone Lattes develop?

A method to determine blood type from dried blood stains.

What are the classifications of crime scenes?

1. Primary Crime Scene 2. Secondary Crime Scene 3. Macroscopic Crime Scene 4. Microscopic Crime Scene

What is a primary crime scene?

The original location where the crime occurred.

What is a secondary crime scene?

Locations where evidence may be found but are not the original crime scene.

What are some types of crimes against property?

Examples include theft, burglary, and arson.

What is the definition of crime?

Any action against the law that is punishable if caught, which can be intentional or unintentional.

What are some common types of crime?

1. Crimes against persons (e.g., murder) 2. Property crimes (e.g., stealing a car) 3. Terrorism 4. Drug-related crimes 5. Financial crimes (e.g., fraud)

What is physical evidence?

Any object that has a connection with a crime, visible or invisible.

Why is physical evidence considered more reliable than eyewitness accounts?

Physical evidence is free from inherent bias and errors associated with human memory.

What is the dynamic nature of a crime scene?

The ongoing and often unforeseen changes that occur at a crime scene due to the presence of law enforcement and emergency responders.

What is the significance of eyewitness accounts in a crime investigation?

They can provide crucial information but may also be influenced by factors like memory and environmental conditions.