Unit 1: Understanding Crime Scene Evidence and Forensics

A collection of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to crime scene evidence and the principles of forensics.

Dr. Edmond Locard

Known as the Father of Forensics, established the first forensics laboratory in Lyon, France in 1910.

Locard’s Exchange Principle

States that when two objects come into contact, there is a transfer of material between them.

Direct evidence

Establishes a fact and includes firsthand observations like eyewitness accounts, video surveillance, and signed notes.

Circumstantial evidence

Indirect evidence that implies a fact but does not directly prove it, requiring inference from a judge or jury.

Physical evidence

A type of circumstantial evidence that includes fingerprints, bullets, and other tangible items.

Biological evidence

A type of circumstantial evidence that includes DNA, hair, and natural fibers.

Class evidence

Narrows evidence to a group of items or people, such as shoe prints or blood type.

Individual evidence

Narrows evidence to a single individual, such as DNA or fingerprints.

Evidence classification

Evidence can be classified as direct or circumstantial, physical or biological.

Eyewitness accounts

Considered direct evidence but notoriously unreliable for identifying suspects or recalling events.