Chapter 2 Criminal investigation

Which element of securing a crime scene involves removing persons other than law enforcement officers or other officials actively engaging in crime scene duties from the premises?

The interior of the crime scene area should be cleared.

Question 2

Which initial actions are extremely important considerations for officers arriving at a crime scene and involve the first officer noting license numbers and being alert for suspicious persons who are observed in the general area?

Identification of witnesses and vehicles

Question 3

In the evidence-collection process, contamination of evidenceoccurs most commonly when evidence is not properly secured, is wrongfully mixed with other types of evidence, or is altered significantly from its original condition at the crime scene. What are the legal consequences if evidence is not handled properly?

When this occurs, the evidence is usually rendered inadmissible or "incompetent" by the court.

Question 4

What is the purpose of the crime scene "walk-through?"

All of these are valid reasons to conduct a "walk-through."


Question 5

Prima facie evidence is evidence established by law that at face value proves a fact in dispute. Which of the following is an example of prima facie evidence?

Wisconsin state law states that anyone with a blood alcohol content over .08 is operating illegally on Wisconsin highways.



CHAPTER 3

Question 1

Generally, when should police officers begin to take notes?

As soon as an officer gets a call to the scene of a crime

Question 2

Which is the most accurate interpretation of the "best evidence rule"?

Original notes are usually better than photocopies.

Question 3

Which is the best example of a prejudicial photo?

An arrest photo of the suspect showing him dirty and unkempt

Question 4

Which is the best usage of a close-up photo?

Documenting Powder burns

Question 5

During a pretrial hearing in a murder case, a defense attorney is attempting to suppress a photograph from trial that was legally obtained by the police. The photograph in question is a picture of a deceased six-year-old male victim, nude, with multiple stab wounds, mutilated appendages, and large amounts of blood. Assuming the picture was properly authenticated, what is the likely rationale for the judge to suppress this photo?

This photograph is a prejudicial image.


CHAPTER 6

  • Face-saving interrogation style → Investigator gives the suspect a rationale or “way out” to justify their participation in the crime. (Q1: B)

  • Confession → A suspect’s oral or written acknowledgment of guilt, often including details about the crime. (Q2: B)

  • Best interview location → Somewhere the subject is mentally relaxed, which encourages recall, communication, and cooperation. (Q3: D)

  • Ideal interrogation room → No tables/desks or other obstacles blocking the investigator’s full view of the suspect’s body; minimal furniture and distractions. (Q4: A)

  • Miranda warnings → Required when a person is in custody and before interrogation. Remember: custody + interrogation = Miranda. (Q5: A)