Criminalistics midterm

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts and definitions in forensic science, useful for exam preparation.

Forensic Science

The application of science to criminal and civil laws.

Mathieu Orfila

The father of forensic toxicology.

Locard's Exchange Principle

States that when a criminal comes in contact with an object or person, a cross-transfer of evidence occurs.

Biology Unit

Applies knowledge of biological sciences to investigate blood samples, body fluids, hair, and fiber samples.

Toxicology Unit

Examines body fluids and organs for the presence of drugs and poisons.

Expert Witness

A specialist called to evaluate evidence based on training and experience that the court lacks.

Primary Crime Scene

The location at which the initial crime occurred.

Crime Scene Security Levels

Three levels: Level 1 - general public restricted; Level 2 - restricted to official business; Level 3 - target area with highest security.

Crime Scene Recording Methods

Photography, sketches, and notes are the three methods for recording a crime scene.

Physical Evidence

Any objects that establish a crime has or has not been committed or links a crime and its victim or perpetrator.

Chain of Custody

The documentation of every person who handled or examined evidence and where it is at all times.

Standard/Reference Sample

Physical evidence whose origin is known, used for comparison with crime-scene evidence.

Individual Characteristics

Evidence that can be associated with a common source with a high degree of probability.

Class Characteristics

Evidence associated only with a group.

Cause of Death

Determined during an autopsy to include blunt force injury, sharp force injury, and asphyxia.

Crime Scene Reconstruction

The method to develop a likely sequence of events by observing physical evidence and statements.

Fingerprint Principles

Fingerprints are an individual characteristic; no two fingers have identical ridge characteristics.

Visible Prints

Made when fingers touch a surface after contact with a colored material.

Latent Prints

Invisible impressions left on a surface by body perspiration or oils.

ACE-V

A four-step process for identifying and individualizing a fingerprint: Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, Verification.

AFIS

Automated Fingerprint Identification System used for classifying and retrieving fingerprints.

Impact Spatter

Classified as low, medium, or high velocity based on droplet size and applied force.

Forensic Databases

Systems such as IAFIS and CODIS enabling electronic exchange of DNA profiles and fingerprint information.