CIK Flashcards
(421 cards)
Question 1
The I car is first to the scene of a serious crash incident where two people in one car are injured and trapped. The constables’ first duty is to:
A. Assess the injured people and give first aid.
B. Ensure the crash scene is as safe as possible.
C. Establish a pathway into and out of the scene.
Explanation
When Police officers (or any first responder) arrive at the scene of a serious crash, their first duty is to make sure the area is safe for everyone present—this includes the crash victims, other road users, emergency services, and the officers themselves. Ensuring the scene is safe is the foundational step because, without a secure and hazard-free environment, any subsequent actions (like providing first aid or arranging access for ambulances) could be compromised.
Why “B” is correct:
Police/first responders must secure the scene for everyone’s safety. If the roadway is dangerous—due to oncoming traffic, exposed fuel, or other hazards—there is an ongoing risk of further harm.
By isolating hazards (e.g., moving traffic away, preventing fires, keeping bystanders at a safe distance), officers protect the injured, bystanders, and other responders (like paramedics and firefighters) who will arrive soon to assist.
New Zealand Police policy and general emergency management best practice (often referred to under the mnemonic “DRSABC” in first aid or the “Safety, Scene, Situation” approach) prioritise making the environment safe before any direct intervention on injured persons.
Why A is not correct as the very first duty:
A. Assess the injured people and give first aid.
While giving immediate first aid and assessing injured persons is crucial, it must come after ensuring the scene is safe. If the environment poses ongoing risks—like traffic that has not been stopped, leaking fuel, or danger from fire—rushing straight to provide first aid might place both the officers and victims in greater danger.
Therefore, first aid, although extremely important, is not the first step if the scene itself is still unsafe.
Why C is not correct as the very first duty:
C. Establish a pathway into and out of the scene.
Setting up a clear access/exit route is important for getting emergency vehicles (ambulances, fire trucks) to and from the scene. However, this is a secondary action that typically occurs once you have stopped or managed any immediate risks (e.g., approaching traffic, potential fire hazard).
Securing safety comes before arranging routes. If the scene is not safe in the first place, planning pathways into and out of the area is less effective and still puts everyone at risk.
In summary, although assessing and providing first aid (A) and establishing a clear access route (C) are both critical steps, the priority under New Zealand Police practice is to secure and make the crash scene safe (B). This aligns with standard emergency management and road policing doctrine, ensuring the well-being of responders and the public.
Question 2
After witnessing an assault, you approach and arrest the offender. He refuses to say anything to you. Thirty minutes later at the station, the offender states that he wishes to speak to you about the incident. When interviewed, he tells you why the assault took place. At what point during this incident should this offender have received the Rights/Caution?
A. At the start of the interview while he was in custody and upon the offender eventually admitting the assault.
B. At the time of arrest only, because once an offender is arrested the Rights/Caution lasts for the next two hours.
C. At the time the offender was arrested for assaulting the other person and prior to any interview while he was in custody.
Answer
C. At the time the offender was arrested for assaulting the other person and prior to any interview while he was in custody.
Reasoning
Requirement to Inform of Rights Immediately Upon Arrest or Detention
Under section 23(1)(b) of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, anyone who is arrested or detained must be informed promptly of the reason for their arrest or detention.
Furthermore, section 23(4) stipulates the right of an arrested or detained person to consult and instruct a lawyer “without delay.”
NZ Police Practice and the ‘Rights/Caution’
NZ Police policy (as reflected in the Police Manual and in standard Police practice) requires officers to administer the Rights/Caution as soon as practicable after arrest or detention and before any formal questioning.
The caution ensures the suspect knows they have:
The right to remain silent (i.e., they are not obliged to say anything).
The right to speak to a lawyer without delay and in private.
Why Option C Is Correct
The offender should have been given the Rights/Caution at the time of arrest (i.e., when you first detained him for the assault).
Before any subsequent interview while in custody, Police must confirm he has been cautioned and understands his rights.
Why the Other Options Are Not Correct
Option A:
Waiting until the “start of the interview” when he is already in custody is too late. The law and NZ Police policy expect the Rights/Caution to be administered as soon as the arrest occurs, not only when an interview begins or upon an admission.
Option B:
The notion that “the Rights/Caution lasts for two hours” is not correct in law or policy. Once a suspect is arrested, the caution and advice of rights should be given immediately, and the suspect’s rights continue to apply throughout their detention, not just for two hours.
Sources
New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, sections 23(1) and 23(4).
New Zealand Police Manual (Rights Caution guidance).
Chief Justice’s Practice Notes regarding suspect interviews and fairness.
Question 3
Which of the following scenarios could be an example of an interview record that has been improperly obtained? When the suspect:
A. Repeatedly asks for a lawyer but the interview continues on without one.
B. Is asked to explain (challenged) about his different version of events.
C. Declines the support of an interpreter, although one is clearly present.
Answer: A. Repeatedly asks for a lawyer but the interview continues on without one.
Reasoning
Right to Legal Advice
Under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 (NZBORA)—specifically sections 23(1)(b) and 23(4)—any person who is arrested or detained must be informed of their right to consult a lawyer without delay.
If a suspect repeatedly asks for a lawyer and is not given a reasonable opportunity to seek legal counsel, continuing with the interview would be a violation of that right.
Why A Indicates Improperly Obtained Interview
Once the suspect expresses a desire to speak with a lawyer, the Police must stop the substantive questioning until the suspect has had a reasonable chance to consult with a lawyer (unless there is a valid reason under law to continue, which is very limited and rare).
Failing to facilitate access to counsel undermines the fairness of the interview and would likely render the resulting interview record “improperly obtained.” In turn, a court could rule that statement inadmissible under section 30 of the Evidence Act 2006 on the grounds of it being obtained unfairly.
Why the Other Options Are Less Likely Improper
B. Challenging a suspect about inconsistencies or different versions of events is a normal part of investigative interviewing. It does not, on its face, breach any right or procedure.
C. If a suspect explicitly declines the support of an interpreter (and genuinely understands the language used), Police are typically entitled to proceed without one (unless there are genuine doubts about comprehension). That, in itself, would not make the interview record improperly obtained.
Sources
New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, especially sections 23(1)(b) and 23(4).
Evidence Act 2006, particularly section 30 (Exclusion of improperly obtained evidence).
Chief Justice’s Practice Note on Police Questioning (outlining fairness requirements).
New Zealand Police Manual (interviewing doctrine and rights caution procedures).
Question 4
Simon is walking down the street texting his girlfriend. He is approached by John, who demands Simon hand over his phone. Simon refuses, and John punches him in the face. Simon gives John the phone as a result. John then realizes the phone is not the model he’s after and gives it back to Simon. What offence has John committed?
A. Robbery.
B. Both Theft and Common Assault.
C. Common Assault.
Answer: A. Robbery
Reasoning
Definition of Robbery under the Crimes Act 1961
Robbery is defined in section 234 of the Crimes Act 1961 as theft accompanied by violence or threats of violence.
The offence is complete if the offender uses or threatens to use force in order to steal, regardless of whether the property is later returned.
Application to the Scenario
John punches Simon (violent act) in order to make Simon hand over the phone. This meets the threshold for violence associated with theft.
John’s subsequent return of the phone is immaterial—once the violence has been used to take the property, robbery is complete.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
B (Both Theft and Common Assault):
Once violence is used to obtain the property, it’s no longer just assault plus theft—it becomes robbery.
C (Common Assault):
The violence here was used for the specific purpose of taking the phone. That elevates it from common assault to robbery.
Sources
Crimes Act 1961, section 234 (Robbery).
New Zealand Police Manual and case law on robbery definitions and charging decisions.
Chief Justice’s Practice Notes (general interviewing and evidence considerations, although less directly relevant here, they guide overall procedure).
Question 5
If no Police Bail conditions are imposed, the date of the defendant’s first appearance must be which of the following?
A. No more than 10 working days from the date bail was granted.
B. No more than 14 days from the date bail was granted.
C. No more than 7 consecutive days from the date bail was granted.
Answer: A. No more than 10 working days from the date bail was granted.
Reasoning
Bail and Court Appearance Requirements
Under New Zealand bail and court procedure, when a defendant is granted Police Bail without any special conditions, they must be brought before the court within a set timeframe to address the charge(s).
Why 10 Working Days
Current legislation and New Zealand Police policy state that the first appearance date must be no more than 10 working days from when the defendant was bailed, unless conditions or other factors alter that timeframe.
Other Options
14 days and 7 consecutive days do not align with standard Police Bail policies when no special conditions are imposed. The 10-working-day limit is the standard.
Sources
Bail Act 2000 and related New Zealand Police procedural guidance.
New Zealand Police Manual on Bail Procedures.
Question 6
Steve and Keith are walking down the road together. Steve is wearing an All Whites football jersey. Henry wants the football jersey, so he walks up to Keith, punches him in the face, and yells at him to tell Steve to give up his jersey or he will punch him again. Steve, fearing that Keith might be hurt, takes off his jersey and gives it to Henry. What offence has Henry committed?
A. Aggravated robbery, as Henry has used violence on more than one person and stolen property.
B. Robbery, as Henry has used violence and stolen property.
C. Theft, as the violence was used on Keith but the property was taken from Steve.
Answer: B. Robbery
Reasoning
Definition of Robbery (Crimes Act 1961, s 234)
Robbery involves theft accompanied by violence or a threat of violence. In this scenario, Henry uses violence (punching Keith) and the threat of further violence to obtain Steve’s jersey.
Specific Factors in This Scenario
Henry punches Keith and threatens more violence unless Steve surrenders his jersey.
Steve gives up the jersey out of fear that Keith will be harmed.
The key point is that violence or the threat of it directly forces Steve to relinquish the property.
Why It’s Not Aggravated Robbery
Aggravated robbery typically involves additional factors such as being armed with a weapon or causing grievous bodily harm. Here, Henry uses his fists, but there is no indication of a weapon or severe injury that would escalate it to aggravated robbery.
Why It’s Not Just Theft
Simple theft doesn’t include violence or threats. Because Henry used violence to obtain the jersey, it exceeds the threshold for theft.
Hence, Option B best fits the legal definition of robbery under New Zealand law.
Sources
Crimes Act 1961, s 234 (Robbery).
New Zealand Police Manual (definitions of robbery vs. theft vs. aggravated robbery).
Question 7
Who is responsible for filing formal statements?
A. The O/C case.
B. The Registrar.
C. The Prosecutor.
Answer: A. The O/C case
Reasoning
Responsibility for Collation and Filing
In New Zealand Police procedure, the Officer in Charge (O/C) of the case is generally the one who coordinates the entire investigation file. This includes gathering, filing, and managing all formal statements (witness statements, victim statements, etc.).
Why Not the Registrar or the Prosecutor
Registrar: The Registrar’s role is primarily administrative within the court system (receiving filed documents, scheduling, and record-keeping in the court context). They do not prepare or proactively file police statements.
Prosecutor: While the prosecutor uses the statements to build a legal case, they typically rely on the O/C case to assemble and provide the completed file, including formal statements.
Relevant Guidance and Sources
New Zealand Police Manual: Outlines the O/C case responsibilities in relation to gathering, collating, and managing evidence.
Criminal Procedure Act 2011: Although the Act covers formal processes for charging documents and court appearances, the day-to-day responsibility for filing statements remains with the O/C case in police practice.
Hence, the O/C (Officer in Charge) must ensure all necessary statements are collected and officially filed to progress the case through the criminal justice process.
Question 8
When cautioning a suspect you are not obliged to inform the suspect that:
A. Police may use any statement they make as evidence.
B. They can have a lawyer present at the interview free of charge.
C. They can decide with a lawyer whether to go on video or not.
Answer: C. They can decide with a lawyer whether to go on video or not.
Reasoning
What Must Be Included in the Rights Caution?
Under New Zealand law and police procedure (including the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 and standard Police Manual guidelines), you must inform a suspect that:
They are not obliged to make a statement (right to silence).
Anything they do say may be given in evidence.
They have the right to consult a lawyer without delay and in private (free of charge).
Why Options A and B Are Required
A. “Police may use any statement they make as evidence” is a core part of the caution.
B. Advising them that “they can have a lawyer present at the interview free of charge” is also part of ensuring the suspect understands their right to legal counsel.
Why Option C Is Not Required
C. Telling the suspect specifically, “They can decide with a lawyer whether to go on video or not,” is not a mandated element of the standard New Zealand Police caution. While there are rules around voluntary interviews and how they might be recorded (often guided by the Chief Justice’s Practice Note and police policy), you’re not obliged to inform them that they can consult with a lawyer specifically about the choice to be videoed or not.
Hence, of the three choices provided, Option C is the detail you are not required to include in the caution.
Sources
New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, sections 23(1) and 23(4).
New Zealand Police Manual (Rights caution instructions).
Chief Justice’s Practice Note on Police Questioning (general guidance on informing suspects of their rights).
Question 9
With respect to a victim’s property that may be held as evidence, Police are obliged to:
A. Discuss the evidential requirement with the victim and ensure the property is returned as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed.
B. Inform the victim that the property is required for disclosure to the offender’s lawyer before the court date.
C. Inform the victim that their property will help gain a guilty conviction and is required as a court exhibit
Answer: A. Discuss the evidential requirement with the victim and ensure the property is returned as soon as practicable after it is no longer needed.
Reasoning
Obligation to Return Property Promptly
Under New Zealand Police policy and the Victims’ Rights Act 2002, Police must explain why the property is being held (i.e., its evidential value) and return it as soon as it is no longer required for the investigation or court proceedings.
Why Options B and C Are Not Correct
B. Police do not need to specifically tell the victim that the offender’s lawyer must see the property; while disclosure laws do exist, the victim doesn’t necessarily need those procedural details.
C. It would be inappropriate to guarantee or suggest that the property “will help gain a guilty conviction.” Police should remain neutral and professional, explaining only that it’s needed for evidential purposes without presuming the outcome of the case.
Hence, Option A best aligns with the legal and procedural obligations to discuss the evidential requirement and return the property to the victim as soon as is practicable once it is no longer needed.
Sources
Victims’ Rights Act 2002
New Zealand Police Manual, sections related to managing exhibits and victim liaison.
Question 10
Which words best describe the Appreciation technique?
A. A four-step problem-solving process that informs decision making.
B. A four-step process to identify problems and find appropriate solutions.
C. A four-step process that is written down, not committed to memory.
Answer: A. A four-step problem-solving process that informs decision making.
Reasoning
What is the Appreciation Technique?
Within New Zealand Police practice (and broader emergency management or military-style planning), an “appreciation” is a structured, often four-step process to analyze situations, consider threats/risks, identify objectives, and decide on a course of action.
Why Option A Is Correct
This technique is specifically designed to inform decision making by walking through distinct steps:
Identify the problem/situation.
Consider factors/risks and gather information.
Develop possible options.
Decide on the best option and plan accordingly.
Why B and C Are Not the Best Descriptions
B. While the process does identify problems and solutions, the distinguishing feature is how it informs decision making in a structured manner, rather than just problem-solving in a general sense.
C. An appreciation can be written down (especially for complex operations), but it is primarily a mental and decision-making process; the key focus is not whether it is memorized versus written—it’s about guiding systematic thinking and planning.
Hence, A best encapsulates the purpose and structure of the Appreciation technique as used in New Zealand Police procedure.
Sources
New Zealand Police Manual (planning and operation orders).
Military/Police Planning Doctrine outlining “appreciation” or “appreciation process.”
Operational Planning Guidance (4-step structured approach).
Question 11
Sandra is 18 years old and has a reputation for being a fighter. Aroha is sitting at the bus stop when Sandra comes up and tells Aroha that she likes the jacket she is wearing. Aroha knows that Sandra was involved in a fight last week, so she takes off her jacket, gives it to Sandra, and then runs away. What offence has Sandra committed?
A. No offence.
B. Theft.
C. Demanding with menaces.
Answer: C. Demanding with menaces
Reasoning
Definition of Demanding with Menaces (Crimes Act 1961, Section 239)
This offence occurs when a person makes a demand with threats (or menaces) of violence or other detrimental actions.
Even if the threat is implied rather than explicitly stated, causing the victim to part with property because they fear harm can qualify as demanding with menaces.
Application to the Scenario
Sandra’s reputation as a fighter and her approach—telling Aroha she likes the jacket—implicitly creates a menacing situation for Aroha.
Aroha believes she might be harmed (based on Sandra’s prior violent reputation) if she doesn’t hand over the jacket, so she surrenders it out of fear.
No explicit violence (like a punch or visible weapon) was used at the moment, and no direct theft stealthily occurred; it’s the threat or perceived threat that forced Aroha to give up her jacket.
Why Other Options Are Not Correct
A. No offence:
Aroha parted with her property due to fear. That is sufficient to show some form of threat or menaces, so there is an offence.
B. Theft:
Theft typically involves taking someone’s property without consent and without the use of threats. Here, Aroha “consented” only due to intimidation, which elevates it beyond mere theft.
Thus, C—Demanding with menaces—most accurately captures the nature of Sandra’s actions under New Zealand law.
Question 12
Steve goes to his local pub, where after a few drinks he gets into an argument with his friend Gerry. Gerry becomes so enraged with Steve that he yells out, “You really deserve this,” and smashes his glass twice into Steve’s face, causing the glass to shatter. Steve suffers severe lacerations to his cheek and lip and a fractured eye socket. What is the most appropriate Crimes Act 1961 assault offence?
A. Injuring with intent (Section 189(1)).
B. Wounding with intent (Section 188(1)).
C. Assault with a weapon (Section 202C).
B. Wounding with intent (Section 188(1))
Explanation
Definition of Wounding With Intent
To be charged under section 188(1), the offender must wound (cause a significant break in the skin or serious bodily harm) with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, or at least intent to injure.
Nature of the Injuries
Smashing a glass into someone’s face twice causing:
Severe lacerations (deep cuts) to the cheek and lip.
A fractured eye socket (a significant and potentially life-changing injury).
These injuries are more serious than a routine cut or bruise; they amount to wounding rather than just “injuring.”
Why Section 189(1) (Injuring with Intent) Is Less Appropriate
Section 189(1) covers “injuring with intent to injure” but typically applies to harm that—while serious—is not at the threshold of wounding or particularly grave injuries (e.g., fractured bones, deep cuts) that often fall under section 188.
Because fractured facial bones and significant lacerations demonstrate a level of severity commonly charged as wounding, the more serious provision of section 188(1) is appropriate.
Why It Is Not Merely Assault With a Weapon (Section 202C)
While a glass can be considered a “weapon,” the seriousness of the injuries (deep wounds, fractured bones) elevates the offence above a straightforward Assault With a Weapon charge. The law typically applies Wounding with Intent for such severe, deliberate harm.
Hence, smashing a glass into Steve’s face twice—resulting in deep cuts and a fractured bone—fits section 188(1) Wounding with intent, which carries a higher penalty than injuring with intent under section 189(1).
References
Crimes Act 1961, sections 188(1) and 189(1).
New Zealand Police Manual, guidelines on charging for serious assault offences.
Case Law examples where facial fractures and deep lacerations are charged under section 188(1).
Question 13
The correct method to collect a dry blood sample at a crime scene is to:
A. Dab blood with a dry swab, then add sterile water to the swab.
B. Dampen swab with sterile water, then gently rub the blood.
C. Add sterile water to the blood, then gently rub with a dry swab.
Answer: B. Dampen swab with sterile water, then gently rub the blood.
Reasoning
Standard Procedure for Dry Blood Samples
According to New Zealand Police forensic collection guidelines (as well as general forensic best practice), when collecting dried blood evidence, the recommended method is to slightly dampen (rehydrate) the swab with sterile water before gently swabbing the dried stain.
Doing so avoids excessive dilution or contamination and preserves the sample for further analysis (e.g., DNA, serology).
Why the Other Methods Are Less Suitable
Option A (Dab blood with a dry swab, then add sterile water):
Adding water after rubbing with a dry swab may cause the blood to flake or be partially lost, resulting in incomplete collection or possible contamination.
Option C (Add sterile water directly to the blood, then use a dry swab):
Applying water directly onto the dried blood stain could cause it to spread or drip. It’s also more likely to degrade or dilute the sample unevenly before collection.
Hence, Option B—dampening the swab first, then gently rubbing the dried blood—ensures the stain is lifted effectively and collected in a way that best preserves forensic value.
Sources
New Zealand Police Manual: Forensic evidence handling protocols.
ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) Guidelines for biological sampling.
General forensic textbooks and training materials on crime scene investigation.
Question 14
A 16-year-old male who has been arrested elects his mother as his nominated person. She asks about the charges her son may face. Is she entitled to an explanation?
A. No. As a nominated person, her role is to support her son at the interview so he understands the charges.
B. Yes. The enforcement officer should inform her of the charges, but only when a lawyer is present.
C. Yes. The enforcement officer should inform her of the nature of the charges as soon as possible.
Answer: C. Yes. The enforcement officer should inform her of the nature of the charges as soon as possible.
Explanation
Rights of a Child or Young Person (CYP)
Under New Zealand law, specifically the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989 (formerly the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989), a child or young person in police custody is entitled to have a nominated person (often a parent, guardian, or other supportive adult) present to help them understand the process and protect their interests.
Role of the Nominated Person
The nominated person is not merely a passive observer; they have a duty to support the young person and ensure they understand what is happening, including what charges might be laid against them.
Police practice and legislation encourage clear communication with the young person and their nominated person to ensure fair treatment and full understanding of the legal situation.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
A (No. As a nominated person…):
A nominated person does more than just “sit in the interview.” They should be informed of the nature of the charges so they can assist and support the young person.
B (Yes, but only when a lawyer is present):
There is no requirement in law or policy that informing the nominated person about the charges must wait until a lawyer is present. The right to legal counsel is separate from the duty to inform and keep a nominated person informed.
Hence, C is correct: The law and New Zealand Police policy mandate that the enforcement officer inform the nominated person (especially a parent) about the charges as soon as practicable, ensuring proper support and understanding for the young person.
Sources
Oranga Tamariki Act 1989 (formerly Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989).
New Zealand Police Manual: Youth justice and arrest procedures.
Chief Justice’s Practice Note and relevant Police instructions on youth interviewing procedures.
Question 15
The Investigative Interviewing Suspect guide provides direction on how to introduce a challenge. It suggests a process of using a sequence of phrases starting with key words:
A. You said…I know…Why is that…
B. You said…We have…Explain that…
C. You said…We know…Tell me…
B. You said…We have…Explain that…
Question 16
The Investigative Interviewing Suspect guide provides direction on how to introduce a challenge. It suggests a process of using a sequence of phrases starting with key words:
A. You said…I know…Why is that…
B. You said…We have…Explain that…
C. You said…We know…Tell me…
B. You said…We have…Explain that…
Question 17
In a forensic sense, what does persistence refer to?
A. The nature of the procedures undertaken by forensic specialists.
B. The length of time biological material can be detected following a crime.
C. The way in which biological material adheres to a surface.
Answer: B. The length of time biological material can be detected following a crime.
Reasoning
Definition of “Persistence” in Forensics
In the context of forensic science, “persistence” generally refers to how long biological or trace evidence (e.g., DNA, blood, fibers) remains detectable on a surface or in a given environment before it degrades or is removed.
Why This Fits Option B
“The length of time biological material can be detected” precisely describes forensic persistence: it is the measure of how long evidence stays suitable for collection and analysis.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
A. The nature of forensic procedures is not termed “persistence.” That would more accurately describe “protocols” or “techniques.”
C. How biological material adheres to a surface may be a factor in its persistence, but it is typically called “adherence” or “binding,” not persistence itself.
Hence, Option B is correct based on the established definition in forensic guidelines and practice.
Sources
ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) Guidance on evidence handling.
New Zealand Police Manual: Forensic procedures and definitions.
Forensic textbooks discussing the concept of persistence of evidence (time-to-degradation studies).
Question 18
A local chemist has caught a woman shoplifting cosmetics in his shop. He prevents her from leaving and calls police. You attend, form your reasonable grounds to search the woman and give your obligations. You search the woman’s pockets and carrybag and locate the missing items. You also find and remove some items of clothing that you suspect are stolen as they still have security tags. Following your search the woman must be given a copy of:
A. A POL268 inventory of items seized.
B. A POL262 summary of facts record.
C. A POLSW8 warrantless search report.
A. A POL268 inventory of items seized.
Question 19
You are considering charging someone with Burglary. Before you do, you must satisfy the Test for Prosecution contained in the Solicitor-General’s Prosecution Guidelines. Which component of the test should you conduct first?
A. It doesn’t matter which order we complete the tests; we should always do both.
B. The evidential test – if the evidence meets the evidential test we can then consider the public interest.
C. The public interest test – if prosecution is of benefit to the public we can then consider the evidential test.
Answer: B. The evidential test – if the evidence meets the evidential test we can then consider the public interest.
Reasoning
Solicitor-General’s Prosecution Guidelines
These guidelines specify that two parts of the Test for Prosecution must be met for a charge to proceed:
Evidential Test: Is there sufficient and reliable evidence to provide a reasonable prospect of conviction?
Public Interest Test: Is it in the public interest to proceed with the prosecution?
Why Evidential Test Must Come First
There is no point assessing public interest if the evidential threshold has not been met. If the case lacks the required sufficiency or reliability of evidence, it fails the test outright, and no prosecution should occur.
Only after confirming the evidence is strong enough do you weigh factors like cost, victim impact, and broader community interests (the public interest).
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
A. It does matter which order you complete the tests: The evidential test comes first.
C. You do not consider the public interest if the evidential test fails; the guidelines explicitly say to look at the evidence first.
Hence, Option B aligns with the correct procedure under New Zealand’s Prosecution Guidelines.
Sources
Solicitor-General’s Prosecution Guidelines (Ministry of Justice, New Zealand).
New Zealand Police Manual, charging procedures, referencing the two-step test.
Question 20
A special consideration witness may be described as “vulnerable.” Vulnerable means:
A. Susceptible, defenceless, in a weak position.
B. Angry, suspicious, defenceless.
C. Suspicious, inconsistent, stressed.
Answer: A. Susceptible, defenceless, in a weak position.
Reasoning
Definition of a “Vulnerable” or Special Consideration Witness
Under New Zealand Police and court guidelines, a “vulnerable” (special consideration) witness is one who may have characteristics or be in circumstances that make them more susceptible or defenceless—for example, a child, someone with intellectual disability, or a person who has experienced trauma.
Why Option A Is Correct
The term “vulnerable” is commonly used to mean at higher risk or unable to protect oneself fully, which aligns with “susceptible, defenceless, in a weak position.”
Why B and C Are Incorrect
B (Angry, suspicious, defenceless): “Angry” and “suspicious” do not necessarily define vulnerability.
C (Suspicious, inconsistent, stressed): These descriptors can happen to any witness, but they do not specifically denote vulnerability in the legal or policing sense.
Hence, Option A accurately reflects what is meant by “vulnerable” for a special consideration witness.
Sources
New Zealand Police Manual: Guidance on special consideration witnesses.
Evidence Act 2006 and associated best practice guidelines (especially around vulnerable witnesses).
Question 21
The initial action scene party must not move any items in a serious crime scene unless it:
A. Will be affected by the weather and cannot be protected.
B. Needs to be shifted to be photographed and packaged.
C. Can be safely handled and packaged as an exhibit.
Answer: A. Will be affected by the weather and cannot be protected.
Reasoning
Preserving the Crime Scene
In New Zealand Police practice (and crime scene management worldwide), the guiding principle is to leave evidence undisturbed whenever possible. Preserving the scene in its original state protects evidential integrity.
Weather-Related Exceptions
If an item of potential evidential value is at immediate risk of being damaged, washed away, contaminated, or otherwise compromised by weather, and if there is no practical way to shelter or protect it, then officers may carefully move or secure it.
This ensures crucial evidence is not lost due to conditions outside of police control.
Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate
B. Needs to be shifted to be photographed and packaged.
Typically, you photograph items in situ first (i.e., exactly where they’re found) before moving or packaging them. You wouldn’t move them just to photograph them; the initial photo must capture their original position.
C. Can be safely handled and packaged as an exhibit.
Even if it’s safe to handle an item, that alone is not a sufficient reason to move it. Proper documentation (notes, photos, sketches) of the item’s position is crucial. Any movement must be justified by the risk of losing the evidence.
Hence, Option A aligns with the crime scene principle: items are not moved unless absolutely necessary—such as imminent threat from weather that cannot be mitigated.
Sources
New Zealand Police Manual: Crime Scene Management guidelines.
ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) best practices for evidence preservation.
General forensic texts on preserving scene integrity.
Question 22
Ensuring that the continuity of the “Chain of evidence” is maintained refers to the specific duties of the:
A. ESR scene examiner.
B. O/C investigation.
C. Exhibit officer.
Answer: C. Exhibit officer
Reasoning
Role of the Exhibit Officer
In New Zealand Police investigations, the Exhibit Officer (sometimes called the Exhibits Officer or Property Officer) is specifically responsible for logging, storing, and tracking exhibits from the moment they are seized or collected right through to their presentation in court.
This includes maintaining continuity (chain of custody): accurately documenting each step (who handled it, where and when) so the evidence remains admissible.
Why Not the Other Options
A. ESR scene examiner: While ESR staff and scene examiners also document handling and analysis, their role focuses on collecting and forensically examining evidence; they do not control every stage of evidence continuity from scene to court.
B. O/C investigation: The Officer in Charge of the investigation oversees the entire case but typically delegates the day-to-day physical handling of exhibits to the Exhibit Officer.
Hence, Option C is correct because the Exhibit Officer is the role designated to ensure continuity of the chain of evidence at every transfer point.
Sources
New Zealand Police Manual: Guidelines on exhibit handling and the roles of the O/C investigation vs. exhibit officer.
Forensic Best Practices: Emphasizing the importance of maintaining chain of custody.
ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) protocols regarding evidence handovers to/from Police.
Question 23
A special consideration witness is one who:
A. Is affected by the nature of the offence or has personal characteristics affecting their ability to communicate easily.
B. Is unable to remember details of the offence they witnessed due to the time that has lapsed before the interview.
C. Is more likely to give a statement that will be difficult to corroborate, thereby creating more work for the investigator.
Answer: A. Is affected by the nature of the offence or has personal characteristics affecting their ability to communicate easily.
Reasoning
Definition of “Special Consideration Witness”
A special consideration witness (sometimes called a “vulnerable” or “special measures” witness) often includes children, people with intellectual disabilities, or victims of particularly traumatic offences.
Such witnesses may have personal characteristics or circumstances that can impair their ability to communicate their account as easily as other witnesses.
Why Option A Is Correct
It correctly identifies both external (nature of the offence) and internal (personal characteristics like disability, language barriers, etc.) factors that can make a witness require special consideration.
Why B and C Are Not Correct
B. Simply forgetting details due to time lapse does not necessarily put a witness into a special consideration category.
C. Having a statement that is “difficult to corroborate” is not a defining factor of a special consideration witness; that goes more to investigative challenges, not the witness’s personal characteristics.
Therefore, Option A accurately captures the essence of what makes a witness “special consideration” under New Zealand Police guidelines.
Sources
New Zealand Police Manual: Special consideration (vulnerable) witnesses.
Evidence Act 2006 provisions for alternative ways of giving evidence for child or vulnerable witnesses.
Question 24
Johnny Smith is served with a summons to appear in Court in two months’ time. The Charging Document has not yet been filed. When must the Charging Document be filed?
A. Anytime up to and including the first appearance date on which the defendant is required by the summons to appear.
B. Within seven days of the issuing of the summons.
C. As soon as reasonably practicable after the service of the summons.
Answer: A. Anytime up to and including the first appearance date on which the defendant is required by the summons to appear.
Reasoning
Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (NZ) Requirements
Under the Criminal Procedure Act 2011, a charge (via a charging document) must be filed within a specified timeframe.
When a defendant has been served with a summons to appear on a certain date, the charging document must be filed on or before that first appearance date.
Why “Anytime Up to and Including the First Appearance Date”
The legislation allows the prosecution to file the formal charging document anytime during that period.
If it is not filed by the time the defendant appears in court (the date stated on the summons), the court generally cannot proceed with the matter.
Why the Other Options Are Not Correct
B. “Within seven days of the issuing of the summons.”
There is no absolute 7-day rule under current law/policy; that timeframe is not specified for filing the charging document.
C. “As soon as reasonably practicable after the service of the summons.”
While police often aim to file charges promptly, the law explicitly allows up to the first appearance date. Simply saying “as soon as reasonably practicable” is too vague and does not reflect the official requirement.
Thus, Option A is the correct statement of law and procedure.
Sources
Criminal Procedure Act 2011 (NZ), particularly sections related to summonses and filing of charging documents.
New Zealand Police Manual: Procedures for laying charges and issuing summonses.