Evidence collection

Here’s a Quizlet-ready version. Each line is Term — Definition, so it’s easy to copy into Quizlet:

Evidence Collection — Ideally, one person should be responsible for packaging, labeling, and documenting all physical evidence.

What evidence should be collected first? — Fragile evidence or evidence exposed to the elements.

What is transitory evidence? — Evidence that can change or disappear if it is not collected quickly, such as dried blood.

Main goals of evidence collection — Prevent evidence loss, prevent cross-contamination, maintain chain of custody, and maintain court admissibility.

Keys to proper evidence collection — Proper techniques and thorough documentation.

Class Characteristics — Evidence that can be described in detail but cannot be tied to one specific person.

Examples of Class Characteristics — Fibers, hairs, clothing, and shell casings.

Individual Characteristics — Evidence that can be associated with a specific person and can exclude others.

Examples of Individual Characteristics — DNA and fingerprints.

4th Amendment — Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

When should investigators get a search warrant? — When in doubt, get a search warrant.

Why must evidence be properly packaged? — To prevent evidence from being lost, damaged, or contaminated.

Cross-Contamination — When evidence is accidentally contaminated by another piece of evidence, person, or object.

Gun Safety — Never put a loaded gun into evidence.

How should a firearm be handled as evidence? — Wear gloves and grasp rough or textured areas to avoid compromising evidence.

Chain of Custody — Documentation that ensures the integrity of evidence presented in court.

When does Chain of Custody begin? — When the evidence is initially collected at the crime scene.

What does Chain of Custody document? — Who had custody of the evidence and what they did with it while it was in their possession.

Why is Chain of Custody important? — It helps prove that evidence was properly handled and has not been altered or contaminated.