Forensics 1

How does an investigator collect evidence?

Utilizes a methodical approach while considering contamination and ensuring chain of custody.

What’s the 1st step for a forensic investigator?

Securing the scene is essential before proceeding.

What are we using to constantly gather information around us?

Our senses provide ongoing data about the environment.

How can an interviewer influence what or who an eyewitness saw?

Interview techniques may unintentionally alter recall due to bias.

What is qualitative data?

Descriptive information that is not easily quantifiable.

What do good observers make a conscious effort to do?

They systematically examine details in their surroundings while minimizing bias.

What is measurable data?

Data that can be expressed in numerical terms.

Why should witnesses be separated at a crime scene?

To prevent collusion and ensure independent testimony.

What is required to correctly collect evidence?

Proper chain of custody and use of appropriate techniques.

What components should a crime scene sketch include?

Key features and measurements for accurate representation.

Why is blood type important and considered class evidence?

It can exclude suspects but is not unique to individuals.

When police investigate a reported suicide is it always treated as such?

A thorough investigation is needed to explore other possibilities.

Are people allowed to roam through an active crime scene?

Access is restricted to protect the integrity of the evidence.

Is hair evidence of little value?

Hair analysis can provide significant insights.

What can hair be used to determine about a person?

It can reveal various characteristics about an individual.

Which part of the hair contains nuclear DNA?

The hair root holds the genetic material.

How is hair collected if it is found on a piece of clothing?

Careful packaging is crucial to avoid loss and contamination.

What part of hair does hair grow from?

Hair growth originates from the follicle.

How do police obtain a hair sample when they have a warrant?

A warrant grants legal authorization for the hair sample collection.

Know how fast hair grows on average in a month.

Hair growth occurs at a consistent rate.

List the parts of hair.

Hair consists of distinct layers with specific characteristics.

Describe the characteristics of yarn.

Yarn properties hinge on fiber composition and construction.

Why is silk shiny?

Its smooth fiber structure enhances reflectivity.

What are the characteristics of synthetic fiber?

Typically high strength and durability.

Define amorphous.

A structure lacking a crystalline form.

Define fiber.

A long, thin strand of material, either natural or synthetic.

Define polymer.

A large molecule composed of repeated units.

Define yarn.

A continuous strand of fibers twisted or spun together.

Define warp.

The lengthwise yarns used in woven fabric.

Define weft.

The crosswise yarns in woven fabric.

Define monomer.

The fundamental repeating unit in a polymer.

How is a fingerprint impression left on a surface?

Residue transfer from the finger creates the impression.

Are fingerprints class evidence? Why or why not?

They are unique, classifying them as individual evidence.

Are fingerprints photographed before they are lifted? Why or why not?

Photography is done to create a permanent record before lifting.

What is NGI and what is it used for?

A national database for biometric identification.

When are fingerprints formed?

Fingerprint development occurs during fetal stages.

Why is using fingerprints for identification not perfect?

Damage or poor quality can impact accuracy.

Define arch.

Ridges enter and exit on opposite sides of the finger.

Define core.

The central point in a fingerprint pattern.

Define loop.

Ridges enter and exit on the same side of the finger.

Define whorl.

Ridges create circular or spiral formations.

Define fingerprint.

A unique pattern of ridges and valleys.

Define minutiae.

Distinct ridge characteristics used for identification.

Define ridge pattern.

The overall shape and flow of ridges.

Define ridge count.

A numerical tally of ridges within a loop or whorl.

What are security measures of checks?

Features designed to deter counterfeiting.

How do we detect if a literary work is forged?

Analysis of style, handwriting, and language is essential.

What is a biometric pad used for?

It scans and verifies biometric information.

What sets the newer currency apart from older currency?

Newer currency includes enhanced security features.

Define counterfeiting.

The act of producing fraudulent copies.

Define currency.

The money utilized within a country.

Define forgery.

The creation of a false document or signature.

Define fraud.

Wrongful deception for personal gain.

Define quantitative analysis.

Measurement of quantities or amounts.

Define qualitative analysis.

Identification of qualities or characteristics.