Processing the Scene Flashcards
(100 cards)
1
Q
It is essential to a successful investigation to select a team of trained personnel to perform scene processing, based on the _____________________________________________.
A
type of incident and complexity of the scene.
2
Q
The ______________________________ shall assess the scene to determine team composition and specialized resources required.
A
investigator(s) in charge
3
Q
Contamination control and preventing cross-contamination at single or multiple scenes is essential to maintaining the safety of personnel and ________________________________.
A
the integrity of evidence
4
Q
The processing team member(s) should review the assessment of the scene to determine the type of ________________ needed.
A
- documentation
5
Q
The processing team member(s) should photograph the scene utilizing _______(3)________coverage.
A
overall, medium, and close-up
6
Q
The processing team member(s) should coordinate (5):
A
photographs
video
sketches
measurements
notes.
7
Q
The processing team member(s) should photograph:
* evidence to be collected with and without _____________________ and/or evidence identifiers.
* Victims, suspects, witnesses, crowd and vehicles.
* Additional __________________________ (e.g., aerial photographs, witness’s view, area under body once body is removed).
A
- measurement scale
- perspectives
8
Q
The processing team member(s) should record video as an _____________________ to photographs
and prepare preliminary _________________ and measure:
A
- optional supplement
- sketch(es)
9
Q
A ________________________________ is required when spatial relationships or proportional measurements are needed.
A
- sketch of a crime scene
10
Q
When sketching a crime scene, use ______________________ to relate evidence to other objects. Use ___________________________________ to calculate such things as bullet trajectory angles or to reconstruct accident details.
A
- spatial relationships
- proportional measurements
11
Q
The ________________________ is the first sketch drawn at the scene; and multiple
may be required depending on the crime. The sketch includes a scene outline with the location of objects and evidence clearly marked. A finished sketch is derived from this.
A
rough sketch
12
Q
Depending on the crime, draw one or all of these types of sketches: (3)
A
- sketch showing the surrounding areas
- sketch showing only measurements
-0 sketch showing locations of objects, such as the locations of evidence, victim(s), etc.
13
Q
Sketch measurements should be accurate to within __________.
A
- 1/4 inch
14
Q
Include, outside of the drawn crime scene, measurements for __________________ of rooms, furniture, doors and windows, and distances between objects, entrances and exits, bodies and persons.
A
dimensions
15
Q
In a sketch, take measurements from a _______________________________, such as walls or curbs, or from stationary appliances.
A
fixed location reference point
16
Q
In a rough sketchy, draw details, such as ________________________ proportionally in a rough sketch.
A
object size
17
Q
(T/F) Do not alter a rough sketch after leaving the crime scene. If changes are required of the rough sketch, photocopy the original rough sketch to preserve its integrity.
A
T
18
Q
(T/F) Initial notes about the incident should answer the who, what, when, where, why and how questions.
A
T
19
Q
Incident information includes: (5)
A
- who reported the incident
- when the incident was first reported
- the crime scene location
- a description of incident
- participant names.
20
Q
Questions that can provide valuable information include: (5)
A
− How did the victim or suspect arrive at or leave from the scene?
− How was the crime committed?
− Which items were handled?
− Which items were moved?
− Which items are broken or stained?
21
Q
(T/F) Specify the changes made to a scene prior to sketching, such as when objects were moved or placards added. Note who made the changes and why they occurred.
A
T
22
Q
When determining the scale to use for sketches:
- Outdoor scenes is ___________________.
- Indoor scenes is _____________________.
A
- one inch equals twenty feet
- one-eighth inch equals one foot
23
Q
Create a ____________________ on the graph paper being used for the sketch in the lower right corner of the paper. This typically includes:
* Case number
* Crime type
* Victim name
* Name and ID# of sketcher
* Name and ID# of person verifying measurements
* Location of sketch
* Date completed
A
title block
24
Q
Create a legend for the sketch on the graph paper used for the sketch. Each sketch must include a legend that is specific to it. A legend identifies: (4)
A
- North-facing direction (usually points to top of page)
- Identification symbols used for information in sketch
- Sketch ID#
- Scale used
25
Identify the 4 categories of sketches.
- Perspective
- Projection
- Schematic
- Detailed
26
A _______________ sketch contains a vanishing point and depicts objects of evidence as they would appear to the eye with reference to relative distance and depth.
perspective
27
A __________________ sketch usually contains only one viewpoint and depicts objects on one plane. The ________________ sketch (of the horizontal plane) is the most common type of sketch and is usually done from a bird’s eye view; it shows the floor plan. Less common is the elevation sketch (of the vertical plane), which shows a side view typically of landscapes or buildings.
- projection
- overview
28
One extrapolation of the projection sketch is the ______________ sketch that contains more than one wall from one viewpoint. It combines the overview and elevation sketches.
“Exploded” view
29
The ______________________ sketch is used when it is desirable to represent a sequence of events such as following the trajectory of a bullet through a crime scene location.
schematic
30
The ________________ sketch is used when describing a small area that is not easily incorporated into the overall drawing due to the scale chosen for the rough or finished scale drawing. This is
especially useful for large crime scenes.
detailed
31
Identify the four measuring techniques used to obtain accurate measurements for the sketch.
- Triangulation Method
- Rectangular Coordinate Method
- Polar Coordinate Method
- Transecting Baseline Coordinate Method
32
The ____________________ method utilizes two fixed permanent objects within the crime scene.
Measurements are taken from each fixed point to each piece of evidence.
triangulation
33
The __________________ method is used when measuring the distance to an object from two mutually perpendicular objects, such as walls that meet at a 90-degree angle.
rectangular coordinate
34
The _________________________ method is more appropriate for an outdoor scene in which only a single fixed or reference point is present. Measure both the distance and direction (angle) an object is from a known reference point. The angle can be measured with either a large protractor or an optical device such as a transit or a compass. The ___________________ technique with a 360-degree protractor is useful for underwater scenes.
- polar coordinate
- protractor
35
The __________________________________ method is used to measure items of evidence when there are numerous objects in the crime scene and other measuring techniques will not work.
This is accomplished by laying a tape measure down so that it crosses the entire room or area to be measured. This first tape measure becomes the baseline for all other measurements in the crime scene.
Measurements are then made _______________________from this tape by laying another tape measure at a 90-degree angle to the first tape and measuring out to the evidence.
- transecting baseline coordinate
- perpendicularly
36
Although accurate measurements were taken, potential courtroom controversies related to those measurements may be avoided by placing the ___________________ disclaimer on the rough sketch.
“Not to Scale”
37
Always use the designated __________________ when moving through the scene to avoid disturbing the scene.
safe route
38
(T/F) When it is necessary to alter the scene, such as by placing placards or disassembling equipment, always take photographs of the scene before and after alteration, and with scale when appropriate.
T
39
(T/F) When using a digital camera, never delete a photograph from camera or digital media memory. When using film, never discard used film or negatives.
T
40
(T/F) Use a sturdy tripod with a cable release or the camera timer feature when placing the camera 90 degrees to the subject, such as when taking fingerprint/footprint/shoeprint/tire track photos.
T
41
Take interior photographs using a ____________ orientation to get the full length of a wall in a photograph.
vertical
42
Photograph transient objects, such as _____________or___________, as soon as possible.
Move from the exterior to the interior of the crime scene, and from general to specific focus
bloodstains or latent prints
43
Use ______________________ film for close-up photographs of fingerprint/footprint/shoeprint/tire track
evidence.
black-and-white
44
Use ___________ film for close-up photographs of bloodstains and other bodily fluids.
color
45
Overall photographs should:
* Encompass the entire large scene and be ______________.
* Represent a ___________________ perspective and include a landmark.
* Include identifying marks, such as house number(s) or
license plate(s)
- overlapping
- 360-degree
46
Take ______________ photographs immediately after taking the midrange photograph, when appropriate.
close-up
47
(T/F) Before the body of a deceased person is moved, it should be photographed.
T
48
(T/F) Include the time that photographing was begun and completed in the notes.
T
49
When the photograph needs to be accurately scaled, the camera lens must be ___________________ to the subject.
perpendicular (90 degrees)
50
For tire impressions, take a ___________________________ photographs showing the tire's entire circumference.
series of overlapping
51
When the impression is on glass and when possible: (2)
* Protect latent prints
* Position a colored card or piece of cloth that contrasts with the impression behind the glass
52
When the impression is on a ________________, hold the flash to the side (oblique lighting); use a tripod to avoid being in the photograph.
mirror
53
When photographing a dust impression or an impression in a soft material (e.g., wax or putty), use _____________________ lighting (also known as oblique lighting).
reflective
54
When the impression is on a _____________ surface, position the light or flash wherever the best results or contrast can be achieved, such as at a 90-degree angle from the impression.
porous
55
Photograph bloodstains or other bodily fluid stains using color film or digital camera. Carefully place the camera plane ___________________ to the plane of the stain and ruler.
perpendicular
56
Aerial and overhead photographs must be __________________.
overlapping
57
(T/F) A well-documented scene ensures the integrity of the investigation and provides a permanent record for later evaluation.
T
58
The collection of evidence must be prioritized to prevent (3):
loss, destruction, or contamination.
59
(T/F) Evidence collection team members should Focus first on the easily accessible areas in open view and proceed to out-of-view locations.
T
60
Select a _____________________ search pattern for evidence collection based on the size and location of the scene(s).
systematic
61
When collecting evidence, move from _____________________________________ processing/collection methods.
least intrusive to most intrusive
62
Prioritization provides for the timely and methodical ______________________________________.
preservation and collection of evidence
63
The thorough search of a crime scene helps ensure that all _______________________ will be recognized, documented and collected.
relevant evidence
64
Identify the four types of search methodology that can be considered to search a crime scene:
* Lane or strip search
* Grid search
* Zone Search
* Spiral search
65
____________________ Searches are accomplished by the searchers walking in parallel along defined lanes in the same direction
Lane or Strip
66
A _____________ Search is a lane search that is conducted by completing a lane search in one direction and then completing a lane search in a perpendicular direction. While it takes twice as long as a lane search, it provides a more thorough search of an area.
Grid
67
A ______________ Search involves dividing the area to be searched into adjacent zones. The smaller the size of the zone, the more methodical the search can be. Zone searches may be done by multiple searchers per zone.
Zone
68
_______________ search involves a spiral into (inward) or out from (outward) a crime scene. A practical disadvantage with outward spiral searches is the evidence may be destroyed as the searchers move to the center of the crime scene area to begin their outward search.
Spiral
69
The handling of ________________ evidence is one of the most important factors of the investigation.
The team member(s) shall ensure the effective collection, preservation, packaging, and transport of evidence.
physical
70
The ______________________ collection of evidence can lead to the reconstruction of a scene to determine if a crime has been committed, to the identification of suspect(s) and to the successful
completion of the investigation.
accurate and timely
71
(T/F) When collecting ignitable (flammable) liquids, NEVER attempt to collect any evidence until you have spoken with an accelerants and ignitable liquids investigator or specialist.
T
72
(T/F) Blood and other physiological fluids are fragile, and certain best practices must be maintained.
T
73
Do not package bloodstained evidence in_______________________.
plastic bags.
74
Avoid _________________ when collecting, transporting or storing blood evidence.
excessive heat
75
Bloodstained evidence description should include: (4)
* Type of item (e.g., victim’s shirt, glass, carpet fibers)
* Location of the stain
* Whether the stain is wet or dry
* Location of the item at the crime scene
76
(T/F) If a piece of evidence is wet, place it on a clean piece of paper and allow it
to dry before packaging, or transport it for drying at a laboratory facility or a properly outfitted evidence holding area. If you have access to a drying rack, dry the item in it.
T
77
Ideally, bloodstained items should be stored in a ______________________ environment (between 60-75 degrees, with less than 60% humidity).
temperature-controlled
78
When folding a bloody garment or large object: (4)
1. Do not crumple or wad any portion of the garment.
2. Fold the garment only enough so that it fits into the container.
3. Do not crease the stained area.
4. Make sure, if using paper, that the paper protects trace evidence and prevents transferring the stain to other areas of the garment.
79
(T/F) When collecting evidence, if possible, cut out the entire stained area using a clean scalpel, utility knife, or scissors, including a large portion of the non-stained area. If the stain has been absorbed into multiple layers (such as carpet and carpet pad), collect a cut-out from each layer.
T
80
Objects of evidence should be wrapped in clean paper when the: (2)
* Location or pattern of the stain or mark is significant (such as a handprint or spatter pattern).
* Object is saturated and liquid.
81
(T/F) When multiple stains are found, take one or more photographs that show the relationship among those stains.
T
82
Suspects should be photographed in the ______________________, in both overall and midrange photographs. A separate photograph of the face as well as the hands should be taken.
Any scar, marks, tattoos and injuries, or lack thereof, should be photographed close-up
clothing that they are wearing
83
Firearms should be _______________________________ at the point of collection. If the collector is unsure of the proper procedure, assistance should be sought from a competent source such as a firearms instructor, departmental armorer, or an on-site firearm examiner.
unloaded and placed in a safe condition
84
When photographing ammunition: (2)
* Include a scale and an identification label.
* Take one or more location photographs that show the object where it was found. Show the relationship of the object to other evidence in the photograph.
85
A _____________________ is any impression, scratch, gouge, cut, or abrasion made when a tool is brought into contact with an item, leaving an impression of the tool. In some cases, this type of identification may link a person to the tool used in the commission of a crime.
tool mark
86
_________________________ deals with the collection of all forms of matter, natural or manufactured, usually very tiny materials, but may also be larger forms of matter. Examples are gas from a container (bag or metal cylinder), hair, pollen, stains (non-biological), volatile liquids, fibers, paint, glass and soil.
Trace Evidence
87
(T/F) Trace evidence can be easily destroyed, contaminated, or transferred, so take precautions when approaching the scene.
T
88
(T/F) If the evidence is wet, determine if the liquid is significant or relevant to the case (for instance, acid splashed on a victim). You may not wish to dry the item if the liquid is relevant to the case
T
89
A _____________ sample is one that the collector knows, that does not appear to have evidence present. It represents the matrix material on which the evidence rests, for instance a piece of wallboard or carpeting.
control
90
A ____________________ sample may have evidence present without the collector’s knowledge (e.g., fire debris), but represents the matrix material on which the evidence rests or is made of the same matrix material as the evidence (e.g., glass fragments collected
from a broken window).
It will be compared to the evidential sample.
comparison
91
(T/F) When describing stains, use the word “apparent” or the phrase “of unknown origin” when the source of the stain is unidentified; e.g., “Brown stain of unknown origin on bathroom floor.”
T
92
(T/F) Do not package control or comparison samples with actual evidence.
T
93
If drugs or ignitable liquids are suspected, the sample must be _____________.
frozen
94
(T/F) Do not allow the suspect(s), victim(s), or witness(es) to wash their hands or subject the hands to any liquids after the shooting, or any rubbing onto other surfaces (e.g., clothing, bag on hand, furniture, etc.).
T
95
T/F- Regarding tire track impressions, the track width of a vehicle is the distance between the center of the tire mounted on one side of the vehicle to the center of the tire on the opposite side.
The front and rear track widths may be different.
T
96
The ______________ of a vehicle is the distance between the center of the front axle and the center of the rear axle.
wheelbase
97
After photography, casting may be performed to document the impression in three-dimensional form. The decision to cast is affected by the __________________(2).
Impressions should be photographed before casting.
substrate conditions and other environmental factors
98
Package items to protect them from damage due to dropping or other physical impacts and from loss of data due to magnetic exposure:
- Use large, plastic bubble-wrap or foam pads as packing material when original packing materials are not available.
- Do not use _______________ as it creates static charges.
- Protect internal storage from data loss (e.g., keep the CPU away from magnetic sources such as radios, heated seats, speakers).
Styrofoam
99
Chemical reagent Ninhydrin is suitable for the following POROUS surfaces: (3)
paper, wood, wall board
100
Chemical reagent Cyanoacrylate Ester or Super Glue is suitable for the following NON-POROUS surfaces: (3)
* Glass
* Metal
* Semi-porous surfaces (e.g., glossy or coated)
