Term
|
Definition
| something legally submitted to a competent trier of fact as a means of ascertaining the truth of any alleged matter under investigation. |
|
|
Term
| What are the two types of evidence? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is physical evidence? |
|
Definition
| is any type of evidence with an objective existence, that is, anything with size, shape, and dimension. |
|
|
Term
| What is testimonial evidence? |
|
Definition
| evidence given in the form of statements made under oath, usually in response to questioning. |
|
|
Term
| Physical evidence may also be considered what? |
|
Definition
| direct (evidence that supports a conclusion of face without inference) or circumstantial ( evidence that requires inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact) |
|
|
Term
| Physical evidence may be more reliable than ________. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are several things physical evidence can do? |
|
Definition
1. Physical evidence can place the suspect in contact with the victim or with the scene.
2. It can establish the identity of person associated with the crime.
3. can exonerate the innocent.
4. Corroborate victim testimony |
|
|
Term
| What has the CSI effect led to? |
|
Definition
| it has made jurors expect, even demanded, physical evidence in a trial. |
|
|
Term
| What is a second factor unrelated to the CSI effect, that has biased the publics notion of the role of physical evidence? |
|
Definition
| science and technology are perceived by most of the public to be unbiased and not subject to manipulation. |
|
|
Term
| What is negative evidence? |
|
Definition
| the absence of physical evidence-may provide useful information and even stop defense arguments at the time of trial. |
|
|
Term
| What is an inaccurate assumption made by some investigators in regards to physical evidence? |
|
Definition
| they may think that every item of PE can be directly associated to a specific person, place, or thing, and believe that is is possible to link that evince to a unique source. |
|
|
Term
| The majority of physical evidence found at a crime scene can only be _________. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What does the classification of evidence mean? |
|
Definition
| Items of evidence that share a common source, that can be placed into generalized groups with other items having the same properties or "class characteristics." |
|
|
Term
| Historically when sufficient markings are present on pattern evidence, practitioners would do ________. |
|
Definition
| offer conclusive opinions that the known and questioned item came from a common source to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty. |
|
|
Term
| What does DNA testing use? |
|
Definition
| the statistical occurrence of discrete pieces of genetic material or alleles. |
|
|
Term
| What are the legal and scientific issues surrounding the proper handling of physical evidence? |
|
Definition
| proper techniques of collection and preservation of physical evidence. |
|
|
Term
| What should be considered before any evidence is seized? |
|
Definition
| A search warrant or a court order should always be considered. |
|
|
Term
| What does fruit of the poison tree state? |
|
Definition
| failure to secure a search warrant or other appropriate legal action, may render evidence seized inadmissible. Additionally, any subsequent information obtained from this search may also be deemed inadmissible |
|
|
Term
| What must be demonstrated to prove the integrity of physical evidence has been maintained? |
|
Definition
| A proper chain of custom, which shows who had contact with the evidence, at what time, under what circumstances, and what changes if any were made to the evidence. |
|
|
Term
| What will the court require in regards to the validity of physical evidence? |
|
Definition
| the court will require proof that the evidence collected during the investigation and the evidence submitted to the court are one and the same. |
|
|
Term
| What is a general rule regarding how much evidence material to collect? |
|
Definition
| as much material as is reasonable possible to collect should be taken |
|
|
Term
| What is a second general rule in regards to how much material should be collected? |
|
Definition
| more is better than less, it may be easier to explain why you did collect something as opposed to why you did not. |
|
|
Term
| What are examples of of exemplars? |
|
Definition
blood samples or buccal swabs from a victim and a subject
a known paint sample from a questioned vehicle. |
|
|
Term
| What is a good practice in regards to the collection of very small items of evidence? |
|
Definition
| double-wrap them. first fold them into a pharmacist fold, then place them into an envelop. |
|
|
Term
| What is an example of how to label potentially hazardous items going to the lab? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is an expert witness and when may they be utilized? |
|
Definition
| expert witnesses are those individuals whom by their specialized training and skills may testify in court to explain and interpret scientific evidence to juries as well as offer their opinion based not eh evidence. They may be used when the subject of the testimony is beyond the experience and knowledge of ordinary laypeople. |
|
|
Term
| What are two factors of the professional police organization that ensure the argument of police bias is not true? |
|
Definition
| the integrity of the professional and the organization |
|
|
Term
| What is ASLDC and what do they mandate? |
|
Definition
| The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors and they mandated a code of professional practices, known as the Guidelines for Forensic Laboratory Management Practices. |
|
|
Term
| Why are forensic practitioners sometimes called to court? |
|
Definition
| to testify as an expert witness. |
|
|
Term
| In regards to your testimony, do you have to answer yes or no? |
|
Definition
| No, you should be allowed to explain your rational. |
|
|
Term
| It is _______ to state you are not qualified to answer some questions. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| During your testimony be cautious of questions such as _____ or ______ which have the ability to box you into a corner. |
|
Definition
| is it possible that or is it fair to say |
|
|
Term
| What is the final element in crime scene investigations? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Each element of the criminal investigation must work _______. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The International Association for Identification |
|
|
Term
| Crime scenes are ______ and ______ changing environments. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is a major task of the first officer on the scene? |
|
Definition
| to protect the crime scene |
|
|
Term
| To a great extent the success of an investigation depends on what? |
|
Definition
| Th reactions and steps taken by the first officer to arrive on the scene. |
|
|
Term
| The notion of an individual coming into contact with a scene and changing it in some way is known as ______. |
|
Definition
| Locard exchange principle named after the French forensic scientist, Edmond Locard. |
|
|
Term
| What is a means for those involved in the investigation to minimize the loss of information? |
|
Definition
| thorough, detailed contemporaneous note take and recording significant as well as mundane observations at the time they are noticed. |
|
|
Term
| While protecting the scene is important, what is a critical first step the officer must take upon arrival? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| After securing the scene the officer should attempt to form what? |
|
Definition
| an estimate of the situation, i.e. what happened here. This should be done as quickly as possible. |
|
|
Term
| What are several fleeting details the first officer should note as early as possible? |
|
Definition
| condition of doors, windows, lights, shades, odors, signs of activity, date/time indicators, messages on an answering machine, etc. |
|
|
Term
| What is rigor, livor, and algor mortis? |
|
Definition
Rigor: stiffening of muscles after death due to a loss of ATP. Rigor mortis typically begins after about 3 hours of death and reaches maximum stiffness after about 12 hours and gradually dissipates after about 72 hours.
Livor: postmortem settling of the blood to the lower portions of the body.
Algor: postmortem cooling of the body. |
|
|
Term
| What is the general rule regarding firearms and ammunition found at a scene? |
|
Definition
| They should be left untouched until investigating personnel arrive on scene. |
|
|
Term
| What are other items the first officer on scene should attend to? |
|
Definition
1. write down names of witnesses and other persons who entered the scene.
2. note who was at the scene upon arrival
3. establish the basic facts.
4. Keep suspect and witnesses separated
5. Instruct witnesses not to discuss the events.
6. Do not discuss the crime with witnesses or bystanders
7. Listen attentively, but unobtrusively
8. Protect evidence that is in danger of being destroyed |
|
|
Term
| If a weapon must be moved by an officer, how should it be done? |
|
Definition
| grasp the checkered surface of the grips with two gloved fingers. |
|
|
Term
| What are two items that may reveal the direction of the shot and possibly the location of the assailant? |
|
Definition
| the position of bullets and cartridge cases. |
|
|
Term
| what are several objectives of the crime scene investigation? |
|
Definition
1. reconstruct the incident
2. ascertain the sequence of events
3. determine the mode of operation
4. uncover a motive
5. discover what property was stolen
6. find out the extent of criminal activity .
7. determine the subject
8. recover physical evidence
9. identify victims |
|
|
Term
| What is the duty of the crime scene investigators? |
|
Definition
| gather all evidence available at the scene |
|
|
Term
| The crime scene investigator like the first responders should approach the scene how? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is a good rule of thumb in regards to crime scene processing? |
|
Definition
| it is better to have processed the scene more thoroughly than needed than to have overlooked something seemingly insignificant that later turns out to be a critical item of evidence in the investigation. |
|
|
Term
| packing blood soaked items in plastic should be avoided unless under what circumstances? |
|
Definition
| individual items may be placed in clean plastic bags and immediately transported to the lab for processing under extreme circumstances. |
|
|
Term
| What was one important lesson derived from the O.J. Simpson trial? |
|
Definition
| the focus of forensic science has shifted from the laboratory to the crime scene. |
|
|
Term
| What should the crime scene investigator do before any actual work begins? |
|
Definition
Should stand back at an appropriate vantage point and formulate a systematic plan. Additionally, they should consider the following:
1. How the search should be conducted
2. What needs to be photographed
3. Where the possible locations of physical evidence may be |
|
|
Term
| How does the crime scene investigation begin? |
|
Definition
documentation of the scene by the following:
1. photography
2. sketches
3. notes |
|
|
Term
| What should be done if an item of evidence must be moved prematurely |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are several considerations that should be made if examining an outdoor crime scene at night? |
|
Definition
1. the scene should be kept in tact as long as possible
2. use artificial lighting
3. attempt to postpone the examination until daylight hours, or at a minimum maintain the scene to be examined a second time under normal light conditions if possible. |
|
|
Term
| When possible how many crime scene investigators should be utilized? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is a quick means to make a crime scene sketch? |
|
Definition
| upload a photo into photograph, convert it to a sketch, and print it out |
|
|
Term
| What are 3 essential conditions for success at a crime scene? |
|
Definition
| organization, thoroughness, and caution |
|
|
Term
| What is a means to conduct an indoor homicide scene? |
|
Definition
| the central crime scene can be searched beginning with the criminal's suspected point of entry and point of exit. followed by the area adjacent to the body, and finishing with the rest of the room. |
|
|
Term
| One is one search that can precede the crime scene search? |
|
Definition
| a preliminary inspection of the body suggest the mode of death. |
|
|
Term
| the trash collection point should be located where? |
|
Definition
| as far away as practical from the central crime scene. |
|
|
Term
| Who is equipped to collect and preserve physical evidence at a scene? |
|
Definition
| CSI officers and evidence technicians, which are police or civilian personnel specially trained to process a crime scene. |
|
|
Term
| What specialties may assist in producing accurate architectural editions of crime scenes? |
|
Definition
| Forensic surveyors, forensic artist, etc. |
|
|
Term
| What may be needed to illustrate an outdoor crime scene? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| If evidence in relation to biology and chemistry are required, who should be employed? |
|
Definition
| criminalist or forensic scientist have special training in education in the fields, that may be applied to the recognition, identification, collection, and preservation of physical evidence. |
|
|
Term
| What are the two main purposes of the ME/coroner system? |
|
Definition
| to determine the cause and manner of death and to identify the deceased. |
|
|
Term
| What other determinations might the ME make? |
|
Definition
| approximate time of death and to take custody of the remains. |
|
|
Term
| What is the role of the Forensic Nurse? |
|
Definition
| these professionals have training in nursing and evidence collection techniques, and other criminal justice related skills. many forensic nurses are seen in an ER type setting and may be responsible to collect sexual assault evidence as part of their duties. |
|
|
Term
| Who may be employed in a mass disaster scenario to identify remains based off of dental records? |
|
Definition
| forensic dentist or odontologist. |
|
|
Term
| When may a forensic toxicologist become involved in an investigation? |
|
Definition
| 1. in product tampering cases and to examine certain bodily fluids collected at autopsy for the presence of unknown poisons or other contaminants. |
|
|
Term
| What does the Society of Forensic Toxicology define as the three distinct elements fo forensic toxicology? |
|
Definition
1. postmortem forensic toxicology: assist in evaluating substances and evaluating their role as a determination for the C/M of death
2. human performance forensic toxicology:
3. forensic urine drug testing |
|
|
Term
| What are several functions of a firearms examiner? |
|
Definition
1. recover spent bullets
2. asses the trajectory of fired weapons
3. determine if a bullet came from a particular firearm
4. may be able to determine if a shooting was an accident or intentional |
|
|
Term
| What does processing. crime scene require |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are several general points regarding notes and note taking? |
|
Definition
1. should be made as events unfold and in chronological order
2. detail step by step actions
3. should be complete and thorough
4. clearly and legibly written
5. negative or unexpected conditions
6. be as specific as possible
7. should be kept in the case file and retained as long as agency guidelines dictate.
8. notes are useful in adjudication as a memory refresher for the officer sometimes years later |
|
|
Term
| Protecting the CS is an ______ _______. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is a simple means to prevent unwanted superiors within your scene? |
|
Definition
| initiate a crime scene log of who enters and who exits the scene. |
|
|
Term
| What are several pieces of information you notes should include? |
|
Definition
1. d/t the crime was first reported
2. type of crime
3. location of the CS and description of the area
4. name of the person who request CSI assistance
5. name of all personnel at the scene
6. name of those who processed the scene
7. weather and lighting conditions
8. description of primary scene
9. location of evidence
10. description of the surrounding area
11. description of the interior and exterior
12. d/t crime scene was concluded. |
|
|
Term
| What does processing of the CS include? |
|
Definition
1. surveying the cs
2. photographing and sketching
3. mapping and measuring the CS
4. recording and documenting the location of the physical evidence
5. searching for FP, DNA, and other physical evidence. |
|
|
Term
| as a general rule what evidence should be collected first? |
|
Definition
| the most fleeting, fragile evidence |
|
|
Term
| What are several types of CS searches? |
|
Definition
strip or lane search
grind search
spiral search
quadrant search |
|
|
Term
| What is one location of the CS typically overlooked? |
|
Definition
| above their heads on ceilings, up in trees, etc |
|
|
Term
| Before walking through the CS, what should be considered |
|
Definition
| there presence of prints located on the floor in such things as dust or dirt |
|
|
Term
| What is a simple technique to look for prints on a floor? |
|
Definition
| use a flashlight shines at a low or oblique angle on the floor |
|
|
Term
| If prints are present how should they first be photographed? |
|
Definition
| on a trip using oblique lighting |
|
|
Term
| in regards to evidence collection fingerprints and DNA should be searched for and collected when? |
|
Definition
| after trace evidence is collected |
|
|
Term
| What is recommended when taking photographs, to provide context of the what the photograph depicts> |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are several pieces of information the photograph log may include? |
|
Definition
case number
D/T
photographers name
type of camera
lens
listing of each photograph |
|
|
Term
| what is important to remember regarding close-up photography? |
|
Definition
| the ruler and the parallel film plane ensure the ability later to produce a good quality engagement or a 1:1 photograph of the evidence |
|
|
Term
| What is the overall purpose of the photograph? |
|
Definition
| to accurately represent the crime scene as seen by the witnesses or the investigator |
|
|
Term
| What is a key determination on if a photograph will be admissible in court> |
|
Definition
| the investigator must be able to testify that it accurately depicts the area show. to be accurate, it must represent the subject matter properly in terms of color scale and form. |
|
|
Term
| What are several pieces of case-identifying information that should be included in a CS sketch? |
|
Definition
case number
suspect, victim, and investigator names
person drawing the diagram
date and time the sketch was made
scale
legend or key |
|
|
Term
| What are several types of CS sketches? |
|
Definition
overview, floor plan, or bird's eye view
elevation drawing
cross projection or exploded
perspective drawing |
|
|
Term
| What type of evidence should be collected first? |
|
Definition
| The most fragile such as fingerprints, DNA, and trace evidence |
|
|
Term
| According to the text, what is one of the most important purposes of physical evidence? |
|
Definition
| establish the identity of the suspect or victim |
|
|
Term
| Prints are considered ________. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are 3 possible fingers a FP examiner may render? |
|
Definition
the subject made the print
the subject could not have made the print
the print has insufficient detail to be evaluated |
|
|
Term
| What does AFIS stand for? |
|
Definition
| Automated Fingerprint Identification System |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| by friction ridges, which deposit grease and perspiration on the object touched, and may be produced when criminals take hold of an object or support themselves with their hands. |
|
|
Term
| How may prints be formed? |
|
Definition
| when fingers are contaminated with foreign material, such as dirt, blood, or grease, or when the fingers are pressed against a plastic material and produce a negative impression of the pattern of the friction ridge. |
|
|
Term
| In reference to a burglary where is one location that should be looked at for LP? |
|
Definition
| the perpetrator's point of entry or in those locations where a suspect may have eaten or drank. Additionally, light switches, circuit breakers and fuses, should be examined |
|
|
Term
| What are three main groups of FPs and briefly describe them. |
|
Definition
plastic prints: occurs when the finger touches or presses against a plastic material and creates a negative impression
prints from fingers contaminated with foreign matter
LPs: result from small amounts of grease, sweat and dirt deposited on a surface |
|
|
Term
| What are several chemicals that may be used to enhance LPs? |
|
Definition
amido black:
coomassie blue
dfo
fluorescence examination
gentian violet or crystal violet
iodineninhydrin
small particle reagent |
|
|
Term
| What is an alternate to taking inked prints? |
|
Definition
| Livescan, which is a technology that produces high-quality print cards without the need for ink |
|
|
Term
| What is a useful technique to lift prints from curved surfaces? |
|
Definition
| elastic or rubber materials |
|
|
Term
| When a print proves to be difficult to lift, what should be done prior to attempting any lifts? |
|
Definition
| it should be photographed using oblique or alternate lighting to bring out as much detail as possible. |
|
|
Term
| What are several techniques to lift prints from human skin? |
|
Definition
| kromekote lift technique and then fingerprint powder |
|
|
Term
| prints on skin typically last how long? |
|
Definition
| 1.5 hours on living victims and deceased victims they should be examined as soon as possible |
|
|
Term
| What are two handwriting characteristics? |
|
Definition
style: which are the general type to which cursive. belongs
personal:are changes made in the general style characteristics both internationally and unconsciously |
|
|
Term
| what two questions can handwriting examinations answer? |
|
Definition
was a signature or document a forgery and
were two writings made by the same person |
|
|
Term
| What are two general types of handwriting exemplars |
|
Definition
informal: or non request writing
formal: request writings |
|
|
Term
| what information may be determined from an examination of remains? |
|
Definition
| physical characteristics and identification |
|
|
Term
| what causes remains to become mummified? |
|
Definition
| when it lies in a dry place exposed to sun and air; the tissues do not putrefy but gradually dry up |
|
|
Term
| what is meant by a body becoming petrified? |
|
Definition
| the external parts are as if they are calcified due to formation of adipocere (grave wax) and the body resembles a marble statue. this typically takes place in a very damp environment |
|
|
Term
| what are issues regarding fingerprints of decomposed remains? |
|
Definition
| drying up and becoming hard, or the tissues becoming loose and filled with liquid and the epidermis becomes fragile and puckered (dishpan hands) |
|
|
Term
| When reading a print patter directly from a hand what must be remembered? |
|
Definition
| the print is seen reversed, as in a mirror |
|
|
Term
| what is one method for softening dried fingers? |
|
Definition
| let them soak in a solution of diluted liquid fabric softener for 1 or 2 days. |
|
|
Term
| FP changes after death can be divided into what 3 stages? |
|
Definition
epidermis of the fingertips becomes loose and coarsely ridged
epidermis is loose everywhere and can be removed
epidermis is completely missing |
|
|
Term
| what are several skeletal characteristics that can be used to determine gender? |
|
Definition
| pelvis, cranium, head of joint of upper arm, Brest bone, skeleton, teeth, organs |
|
|
Term
| what is one portion of the body that is significant in the determination of age? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| The group of primary responders for a major disaster are called what? |
|
Definition
| Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team (DMORT) |
|
|
Term
| What is one of the most important factors of physical evidence? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Trace evidence is a generic term for ______. |
|
Definition
| small, often microscopic material |
|
|
Term
| The concept that it is not possible to come in contact with an environment without changing it in some small way or taking something away is known as what? |
|
Definition
| Locard's exchange principle |
|
|
Term
| What should be avoided when packaging clothing? |
|
Definition
| plastic bags as this may lead to the development of mold or mildew |
|
|
Term
| What items should also be carefully examined during an examination of remains? |
|
Definition
| the clothing of the victim |
|
|
Term
| prior to undressing the victim what should be done? |
|
Definition
| the body should be carefully examined for trace evidence |
|
|
Term
| how should small items of evidence be packaged? |
|
Definition
| they should be double wrapped. the evidence should first be placed into an appropriate container and then secured and then placed into a larger container. |
|
|
Term
| ______ samples are required in all cases? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what should never be done with known and questioned samples? |
|
Definition
| they should never be packaged together |
|
|
Term
| when collecting paint samples from a possible hit and run how many samples should be collected? |
|
Definition
| a total of four should be collected and separately packaged. from vehicle a collect a sample from the point of impact that contains a transfer from vehicle b. also collected a standard from a no damage location. collect two of the same from vehicle b |
|
|
Term
| where should removal of fibers from objects be conducted? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are two types of fractures in broken glass? |
|
Definition
radial: cracks that start at the center or point from which the object struck the glass and run radially outward.
concentric: form concentric circular cracks in the glass around the point of impact |
|
|
Term
| what is a clue when examining glass in regard to which side of the glass the force was applied? |
|
Definition
| the edge of a concentric fracture, the side of the glass forming the right angle with the rib markings is the side from which the force came. |
|
|
Term
| what are several answers an examination of hair may be able to provide? |
|
Definition
| species, location of growth on the body, hair treatment, hair disease, and whether hairs fell out naturally or were forcibly pulled out. |
|
|
Term
| where and how many hairs should be collected for examination? |
|
Definition
| hairs should be collected from the entire body, and specifically hair should be collected from several locations of the head with about 25 hairs from each spot. |
|
|
Term
| what is the first question a criminalist will attempt to answer regarding hair? |
|
Definition
| is the hair animal or synthetic in origin |
|
|
Term
| What should the CSI consider whenever working around blood? |
|
Definition
| Using the appropriate PPE such as Tyvek, gloves, mask, etc. |
|
|
Term
| What is a major concern in regards to handling DNA or biological evidence? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what word describes the act of making impure or unsuitable by contact or mixture with something unclean or foreign? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| crime scene equipment should be cleaned after use using what? |
|
Definition
| 10% bleach solution followed by 70% ethanol |
|
|
Term
| Any individual who enters a CS, should submit what for elimination purposes. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the three basic classifications of bloodstains? |
|
Definition
| passive, spatter, and altered. |
|
|
Term
| what are two types of bloodstains? |
|
Definition
| impact spatter and transfer stains |
|
|
Term
what is blood spatter?
what is a transfer stain? |
|
Definition
blood that travels through the air from an impact mechanism
stains resulting from contact with a bloody surface |
|
|
Term
| what formula can reveal the angle of impact for a blood stain? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what may help determine the direction of travel of a blood stain? |
|
Definition
| the tails end of the individual stains |
|
|
Term
| what are several general terms established by the Scientific Working Group on Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, used to describe various blood marks at a scene? |
|
Definition
| bloodstain, swim, wipe, spatter, drip stain, exported blood, parent stain, satellite stain |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| term used to describe an area within a generally continuous bloodstain patter that lacks bloodstains. |
|
|
Term
| what are several chemicals that may be used as presumptive blood test? |
|
Definition
| leucomalachite green, phenolphthalein, orthotolidine, etc |
|
|
Term
| what are presumptive test and what do they rely on? |
|
Definition
| color spot test that depend on properties fo hemoglobin |
|
|
Term
| according to the text, what are the two most sensitive presumptive blood test? |
|
Definition
| orthotolidine and tetramethylbenzidine |
|
|
Term
| what else may presumptive blood test return a positive result for? |
|
Definition
| animal blood and certain types of plant materials |
|
|
Term
| according to the text what is a good overall choice for presumptive blood test? |
|
Definition
| phenolphthalein (Kastle-Mayer test) |
|
|
Term
| according to this text what is another presumptive test that can be used to search for large areas of latent blood? |
|
Definition
| luminol (remember during blood spatter week, this was noted not to be considered a presumptive test) |
|
|
Term
| luminal reacts with blood and gives off light by a process known as ________. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| one is one non-chemical method to search for latent blood? |
|
Definition
| oblique lighting or IR lighting |
|
|
Term
| the search for blood on clothes must be carried out ______ and _______. |
|
Definition
| carefully and systematically |
|
|
Term
| what are ways to preserve the bloodstain itself? |
|
Definition
| through notes documenting their form, color, size, position, direction of the splash. As well as to extensively photograph the bloodstains |
|
|
Term
| how should bloodstains be packaged? |
|
Definition
| air dry the sample in a paper bag and then seal and store at room temperature. |
|
|
Term
| what is the easiest method to collect wet blood? |
|
Definition
| place a cotton swab into the still liquid pool of blood. |
|
|
Term
| what is a easy means to collect dried blood? |
|
Definition
| use a sterile cotton swab moistened with sterile distilled water |
|
|
Term
| generally how much of a bloodstained object should be submitted? |
|
Definition
| the entire bloodstained object when possible. |
|
|
Term
| damp bloodstained clothing should always be allowed to ______. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| if an item containing blood is too large to collect, besides a cotton swab what else may be done? |
|
Definition
| cut out the relevant portion of the object |
|
|
Term
| how can semen stains be searched for? |
|
Definition
| using an ALS, once located an acid phosphatase presumptive test can be utilized and then confirmed with an prostate specific antigen test utilized |
|
|
Term
| how is DNA depicted pictorially? |
|
Definition
| twisted ladder or double helix |
|
|
Term
| what are the four chemical subunits or steps in the DNA ladders? |
|
Definition
| guanin (G), adenin (A), thymine (T), and cytosine (C). these base pairs always line up in the following format A with T and G with C |
|
|
Term
| DNA is not present where in blood? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| where is DNA located within blood? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are other portions of the body DNA is located? |
|
Definition
| seminal fluid, tissues, bone marrow, hair roots, etc. |
|
|
Term
| what is polymerase chain reaction (PCR) |
|
Definition
| a technology that copies short segments of DAN millions of times in a process that resembles the way in which DAN duplicates itself naturally within the body |
|
|
Term
| explain the PCR testing process |
|
Definition
| after separating the DNA double helix, a PCR reaction mixture is added. this procedure is performed in an instrument called a thermocycler and is typically repeated for 28 cycles, approximatlely doubling the amount of DAN after each cycle |
|
|
Term
| what is used to recover and detect small amounts of DNA? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are several candidates for high-sensitivity testing? |
|
Definition
| car swabs, handles of weapons/tools, keys, pens, air bags, etc. |
|
|
Term
| what separates mtDNA testing from other test? |
|
Definition
much smaller molecule
only inherited maternally
mtDNA is present within cells in multiple copies |
|
|
Term
| mtDNA has several applications, but what is one major example of when it would be used? |
|
Definition
| as an investigative tool in missing persons identifications |
|
|
Term
| mtDNA is another valid choice for what reasons? |
|
Definition
| DNA may degrade due to environmental insults, or aging. The high copy number of mtDNA means a higher likelihood of survival of intact sequences that can be applied to PCR based technology |
|
|
Term
| Y-STRs are found in which sex? |
|
Definition
| male because they possess an X and a Y chromosome |
|
|
Term
| what does CODIS stand for and what is it? |
|
Definition
| Combined DNA Index System, and it is an FBI sponsored initiative where offender DNA samples are stored and used to generate investigative leads in future investigations |
|
|
Term
| what are 4 other components fo CODIS? |
|
Definition
| arrestess, missing persons, biological relatives of missing persons, unidentified human remains |
|
|
Term
| what is the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods? |
|
Definition
| a group of forensic DNA analysis from various locations throughout the US, that have developed guidelines on QA/QC pertaining to DNA testing standards implemented in labs. |
|
|
Term
| In many instances, very small and sometimes microscopically unique markings are left that can be traced directly to the object or instrument in question. Such marks caused by a tool are of what two general types: |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are compression marks? |
|
Definition
| marks left when an instrument is in some way pushed or forced into a material capable of picking up an impression of the tool |
|
|
Term
| what are examples of compression marks? |
|
Definition
| shoe impressions, tire impressions, bite mark impressions, etc. |
|
|
Term
| what are scraping or striated marks? |
|
Definition
| marks produced by a combination of pressure and sliding contact by the tool and result in microscopic striations imparted to the surface onto which the tool worked |
|
|
Term
| what are examples of scraping marks? |
|
Definition
| those found on bullets, left by a cutting cool, from an ax used to cut wood, screwdriver blade dragged over a surface |
|
|
Term
| what is required for compression or scraping marks to be observed? |
|
Definition
| the tool must be made of a harder material than the object on which it is used. |
|
|
Term
| what causes the random nature of the microscopic imperfection found on a tool? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| how is impression-type evidence studied? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| why would you preserve individual footprints? |
|
Definition
| if they contain details of value for identification. |
|
|
Term
| what are the most valuable details of footprints? |
|
Definition
| signs of wear, characteristic fittings or marks of fittings tan have come off, injuries, marks of nails and pegs, etc. |
|
|
Term
| although the _____ and ______ of a shoe or a pattern in the heel or sole is oaf lesser evidential value, it should be persevered none the less. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what causes a footwear impression? |
|
Definition
| when the foot treads in some moldable material such as each, sand, clay, snow, etc. |
|
|
Term
| what causes footprints to form on a hard base? |
|
Definition
| when the foot or the sold and heel of a shoe are contaminated with some foreign matter such as road dirt, dust, flour, blood, etc. |
|
|
Term
| what may gait pattern indicate? |
|
Definition
| the subject was walking or running, had sustained an injury or walked with a limp, was possibly intoxicated, etc. |
|
|
Term
| where are footwear impressions generally found? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what is the first precautionary measure in regards to footprints? |
|
Definition
| to protect the impression from alteration or destruction, preferably by covering it with a box or cordoning off the area. |
|
|
Term
| what are techniques to prevent an impression from being destroyed due to running water? |
|
Definition
if in thawing snow cover the box that is covering the impression with snow.
if running water, surround the impression with a wall of earth, sand, or snow, or dig a hold close to the impression that will allow water to drain. |
|
|
Term
| what is a simple procedure to locate indoor prints? |
|
Definition
| turn off the lights and use a high intensity flashlight at a low angle to search surfaces |
|
|
Term
| what is a means to preserve footwear evidence? |
|
Definition
| photography and casting, if it is a dust print photograph and lift |
|
|
Term
| what type of photography in regards to evidence is most commonly messed up |
|
Definition
| photographing shoe and tire impressions |
|
|
Term
| what are some of the reasons foot/tire impressions may not be properly photographed? |
|
Definition
| not using a tripod, not shooting perpendicular to the impression, failing to use a scale, and not using oblique lighting |
|
|
Term
| what are some general rules for taking photographs of foot/tire impressions? |
|
Definition
| vertically above the impression on a tripod with scale on the same plane as the impression. file plane parallel, use two scales at right angles to each other |
|
|
Term
| before photographing ______ should be removed if it can be determined it has fallen in after the impression was made? |
|
Definition
| debris, do this using a set of tweezers |
|
|
Term
| materials _______ into the impression should not be removed. |
|
Definition
| tramples, such as leaves or grass as if they were pushed into the impression while it was being made there will be no detail under them |
|
|
Term
| what are some methods to get better photographs of impressions in snow? |
|
Definition
| dust the impression with aluminum powder |
|
|
Term
| because foot impressions are _________, the photograph should be made under illumination that will bring out detail. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| how are foot/tire impression usually cast? |
|
Definition
| dental stones, with paraffin, sulfur, and silicone rubber being used less frequently |
|
|
Term
| what is the proper ratio for dental stone? |
|
Definition
| 2 pounds of dental stone to about 12 ounces of water. this mixture in conjunction with a retaining wall should allow for the impression to be cast appx 2 inches thick |
|
|
Term
| what problems arise with casting snow impressions with dental stone? |
|
Definition
| the mixture beings to heat up. to circumvent this, a small amount of snow or ice should be added to the mixture |
|
|
Term
| how should dental stone be poured? |
|
Definition
| it should be gently poured onto an area adjacent to the impression and allowed to flow onto the impression. |
|
|
Term
| before the casting hardens how should it be marked? |
|
Definition
| date, investigators name, case number, location of the impression |
|
|
Term
| ______ and ______ clinging to the cast should not be disturbed and the cast should be allowed to air dry for ______ hours. |
|
Definition
| clumps of solid and rocks, and 48 |
|
|
Term
| when casting an impression in snow how is the impression prepared? |
|
Definition
| by first spraying a thin layer of snow print was into the impression |
|
|
Term
| what is another method for casting snow impressions? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| regardless of the medium how are footprints always preserved? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| after footprints in dust are photographed what methods should be applied for further collection? |
|
Definition
recover the object which the print is on
lifting by special lifter
lifting by photographic paper
lifting by static electricity |
|
|
Term
| how are comparison footprints taken? |
|
Definition
| the soles are coated with water based ink. the inked shoes are then carefully stepped onto a sheet of tracing paper or acetate shoe. |
|
|
Term
| to get a true picture of the formation of the sole of the foot in different position what samples are obtained? |
|
Definition
normal standing,
standing position with pressure agains the outside of the foot
standing with pressure against the inside of the foot
walking |
|
|
Term
| what is another method obtain known footwear exemplars? |
|
Definition
| talcum powder and black carbon paper |
|
|
Term
| what is important to remember regarding prints or impressions of shoe covered feet? |
|
Definition
| they are seldom the same size as the shoes; even when they re made, slipping and the movement of walking can damage prints. |
|
|
Term
| a foot impression in ______ _____ can become appreciably smaller when the earth dries; in ______, the length can decrease by up to ______ of an inch |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| in regards to foot impressions, what is more important that size? |
|
Definition
| to establish identity, the circumference characteristics should be checked. |
|
|
Term
| how should bite marks be preserved? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what is a method to preserve bite marks in fruit? |
|
Definition
| they may be able to be preserved in .5% formalin solution, which prevents changes resulting from drying/decaying of the fruit |
|
|
Term
| what is a good practice to confirm identification from a bite mark? |
|
Definition
| swab the bite mark for DNA |
|
|
Term
| what is typically required to obtained the best evidentiary photographs of bite marks? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are two general types of tool marks? |
|
Definition
| those in which only the general form and size of the tool are apparent and those in which injuries irregularities, and the peculiar characteristics are reproduced in the form of striations or indentations. |
|
|
Term
| what is the most valuable tool mark evidence? |
|
Definition
| tool marks that show striations, indentations, or similar details resulting from damage or other irregularities in the tool |
|
|
Term
| whenever possible, tool marks should be kept what? |
|
Definition
| in their original condition |
|
|
Term
| what should only be used as a last resort for taking impressions of tool marks? |
|
Definition
| casting or other materials |
|
|
Term
| where at crime scenes should be examined carefully for tool marks? |
|
Definition
| doors, windows, locked drawers, etc. |
|
|
Term
| ballistics generally refers to what? |
|
Definition
| the trajectory taken by a projectile and assumes an understanding of physics. |
|
|
Term
| firearms identification is the study of what? |
|
Definition
| firearms and includes the operation of firearms, cartridges, GSR analysis, bullet cartridge cases comparisons, powder pattern determinations, etc. |
|
|
Term
| firearms are broadly classified into what two groups? |
|
Definition
| rifles and shotguns and handguns |
|
|
Term
| what are two other categories may be classified in? |
|
Definition
| the type of bore they have being either a smooth or rifled barrel. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| is the spiral grooves cut into the barrel that impart a rotation motion to the bullet as it leaves the barrel to provide stability during flight |
|
|
Term
| firearms may be _____ shot, _______, _______, or ________. |
|
Definition
| single shot, revolver, automatic, semi-automatic |
|
|
Term
| what are two major ways shotguns differ from other firearms? |
|
Definition
| shotgun barrels are usually not rifled and fire a different type of ammunition consisting of many lead pellets, rifled slugs, sabots, or shot. |
|
|
Term
| one basic function of firearms examination is what? |
|
Definition
| determine that two rounds were fired from the same weapon. |
|
|
Term
| what is other information a firearms examination may be able to provide? |
|
Definition
a casing may indicate the type of firearm, i.e. automatic, semi, etc.
may be able to tell where a shooter was inside of a scene
bullet fragments can be examined, the number and direction of twist, etc |
|
|
Term
| according to some studies, what is the length of time GSR may remain on an individuals hands? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| how is GSR evidence collected? |
|
Definition
| cotton tip applicators and dilute nitric acid solution for AA and ICP analysis or with aluminum stubs with double sided cellphone tape for SEM |
|
|
Term
| what are lab test to confirm the presence of GSR? |
|
Definition
| atomic absorption spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis, inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy. |
|
|
Term
| what are common chemical make ups of most ammunition? |
|
Definition
| lead barium, and antimony |
|
|
Term
| negative GSR results do not confirm _______ and positive GSR results to not confirm ________. |
|
Definition
| do not conclusively mean a subject didn't fire a gun and positive do not prove someone fired a gun |
|
|
Term
| due to the ambiguity in conclusions of GSR test, what is the stance of many labs regarding its testing? |
|
Definition
| they have opted to discontinue this service |
|
|
Term
| what should happen if a weapon is found at a scene? |
|
Definition
| it should not be moved until its location is noted, through measurements, sketches and photographs. Only in extreme circumstances should the weapon be moved before |
|
|
Term
| what is important to note if a deceased individual is holding the gun and why? |
|
Definition
| the exact grip and position of the weapon in the hand, as it could be a staged scene |
|
|
Term
| what may be just as important as information from the weapon? |
|
Definition
| the position of cartridges, cartridge cases, and bullets. |
|
|
Term
| what evidence may a weapon used in a murder, suicide, or assault contain? |
|
Definition
| blood, hair, fragments of textiles, cloth fibers, etc |
|
|
Term
| what is common in close proximity gunshots? |
|
Definition
| blood, grease, etc, may be forced into the barrel of the gun and is referred to as backspatter |
|
|
Term
| when should a gun be unloaded and rendered safe? |
|
Definition
| after it has been processed for prints and swabbed for DNA |
|
|
Term
| what are the most valuable markings on a cartridge casing? |
|
Definition
| those made by the firing pin on the primer and by the breech face on the primer and bas of the case, but the extractor and ejector, and the edge of the breech markings may also be important |
|
|
Term
| marks made by the extractor, ejector, and edge of the breech, may be able to reveal what? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Arson is defined as what? |
|
Definition
| the willful and malicious burning of another's property or the burning of one's own property for some illegal purpose such as defrauding an insurer. |
|
|
Term
| ______ and ______ crime scenes are unique in the amount of destruction and devastation present. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what questions should the arson investigator focus on? |
|
Definition
where did the fire originate
how was the fire started
was the cause of the fire an accident or was it intentionally set |
|
|
Term
| what is the most commonly sought physical evidence n arson investigations? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| ignitable fluids are highly ______ and ______ easily. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| how should volatile substances be packaged? |
|
Definition
| clean metal paint cans, with an alternate being glass jars with metal screw caps |
|
|
Term
| what are several examples of accelerants? |
|
Definition
| gasoline, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid, paint thinner, turpentine |
|
|
Term
| an arson investigation should also search for igniting materials, such as what? |
|
Definition
| match books, candles, black powder, smokeless powder, sodium and water, electrical devices, should all be noted and collected. |
|
|
Term
| what are two broad classifications of explosives? |
|
Definition
low explosives: these explosives burn rather than explode. these are caused by force exerted by the rapid expansion of gases formed by burning.
high explosives: consist of primary and secondary explosives. in general, these are detonated by shock and having much higher detonation velocities. |
|
|
Term
| what is the most common type of low explosives? |
|
Definition
black powder which is a mixture of potassium or sodium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal. black powder is sensitive to heat, impact, friction, and sparks.
smokeless powder is another low explosive. smokeless powder is marketed as either a single base consisting of nitrocellulose, or double base, which is composed of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine. |
|
|
Term
| what causes primary explosives to detonate? |
|
Definition
| when they are subjected to heat and shock |
|
|
Term
| what are two types of blasting caps? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| det cord is a cord like explosive that contained a central core of what? |
|
Definition
| RDT or PETN covered with cotton or other textile, followed by a waterproof material or plastic covering |
|
|
Term
| _____ and _____ explosives are used to detonate very insensitive high explosives. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what does the booster consist of? |
|
Definition
| a secondary explosive such as RDX, PETN, tetryl, or pentolite and is detonated by a blasting cap |
|
|
Term
| what are the four basic types of dynamite used today? |
|
Definition
| straight dynamite, ammonia dynamite, gelatin dynamite, and ammonia-gelatin dynamite |
|
|
Term
| ammonium nitrate in a less pure form is called what? |
|
Definition
| fertilizer, in its our form, it is a white crystalline material, as an explosive it is relatively insensitive and requires a booster to detonate. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a blasting agent and consist of 94% ammonium nitrate and 6% fuel oil |
|
|
Term
| what are sheet explosives? |
|
Definition
| flexible rubber like sheets approximately 1/4" thick that can be cut with a knife. |
|
|
Term
| what are the high explosives used? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| may be used to ignite heat sensitive explosives such as black powder. |
|
|
Term
| what is ammonium nitrate fertilizer? |
|
Definition
| ammonium nitrate mixed with fuel oil and an appropriate booster. it makes an extremely effective homemade explosive device |
|
|
Term
| what are several questions physical evidence may answer in bombing cases? |
|
Definition
what materials were used to make the explosive device
what was the level of skill or expertise of the suspect
what was the target of the bomb
was the explosion accidental or was there criminal intent
where was the bomb made/placed
where did the suspect obtain the material
who was the victim or intended victim
who made the bomb and who placed it
how was it detonated. |
|
|
Term
| in a bombing investigation how does the crime scene investigators duties change? |
|
Definition
| they do not; however, the investigator will have an additional consideration: safety will be the major concern. |
|
|
Term
| according to the text what is the first drug referenced that find their way into police investigations? |
|
Definition
| psychoactive drugs, which affect the user's psychological process or change their mood. |
|
|
Term
| what are the 8 major categories of drugs discussed in the text? |
|
Definition
| CNS depressants, CNS stimulants, hallucinogens, cannabis, designer drugs, nonprescription drugs, inhalants, and steroids |
|
|
Term
| _______ are an important class of CNS depressants. |
|
Definition
| narcotics which are used medically for their analgesic properties and have a high potential for abuse. |
|
|
Term
| what are two categories of narcotics? |
|
Definition
| spiate alkaloids and synthetics or semisynthetic |
|
|
Term
| what is the most frequently encountered opiates? |
|
Definition
| raw opium, morphine, and iodine |
|
|
Term
| what are analgesic substances? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are opiate alkaloids derived from? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are sedative hypnotics? |
|
Definition
| these are CNS depressants and are generally prescribed for treatment of insomnia and tension and have a high potential for abuse and addiction. |
|
|
Term
| what are other types of drugs included in the sedative hypnotic class? |
|
Definition
| barbituric acid derivatives such as secobarbital, amobarbital, phenobarbital, and non barbiturates such a doriden, quaalude, and chloral hydrate |
|
|
Term
| what is a third category of CNS depressants? |
|
Definition
| tranquilizers and energizers. |
|
|
Term
| what are the major and minor groups of tranquilizers? |
|
Definition
major: chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, trifluoperazine, etc. these are prescribed for neurosis, psycosis, and other psychological disorders and are considered addictive
minor: may produce psychological dependence with prolonged use, and include substances such as midtown, librium, valium, etc |
|
|
Term
| what is the most widely used CNS depressant today? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what is a major CNS stimulant? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what is the third class of stimulants? |
|
Definition
| amphetamines and include drugs such as benzedrine, dexedrine, desoxyn, etc. this group also includes non amphetamine stimulants such as Ritalin and preludin |
|
|
Term
| what is one group of drugs that currently has no accepted medical use? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| what are several drugs in the hallucinogen group? |
|
Definition
| mescaline, psilocybin, LSD, DMT, etc |
|
|
Term
| what is the legal definition of pot? |
|
Definition
| derivatives from the plant Cannabis sativa, and is most often consumed by smoking crushed tops and leaves or resinous material which contains THC |
|
|
Term
| what category is pot classified in? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| in regards to contraband and drugs where might an investigator focus their search? |
|
Definition
| in hidden locations, on a person, in a dwelling, or in a vehicle |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the study of poisons. in regards to drugs, it expands the definition to include the detection of drugs and alcohol in blood and urine samples |
|
|
Term
| what are the 5 drug schedules in the US |
|
Definition
Schedule I: high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use
Schedule II: high potential for abuse currently has an accepted medical use with severe restrictions
Schedule III: potential for abuse less than I or II, has an accepted medical use
Schedule IV: low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III, and has an accepted medical use
Schedule V: low potential for abuse relative to Schedule IV, and has an accepted medical use |
|
|
Term
| list several examples of each drug schedule. |
|
Definition
Schedule I: heroin, LSD, pot
II: morphine, PCP, cocaine
III: anabolic steroids, codeine, hydrocodone with asprin
IV: Darvon, talwin, equanil
V: over the counter cough medicine with codeine |
|
|
Term
| how should a SA victim be treated? |
|
Definition
| nonjudgmental and with sensitivity |
|
|
Term
| what are several reasons why seminal fluid that would be expected to be found is not? |
|
Definition
time period between the assault and the exam
suspect wore a condom
suspect penetrated but did not ejaculate
the doctor or nurse didn't take adequate samples
seminal fluid may be present from a consensual encounter
seminal fluid without spermatozoa may be present due to the subject undergoing a vasectomy |
|
|
Term
| what are 3 major purposes of physical evidence in SA cases? |
|
Definition
to establish sex occurred
to establish nonconsensual intercourse occurred
establish the identity of the subject |
|
|
Term
| what are two related problem areas in regards to child molestation and incest? |
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Definition
difficulty in interviewing the victim
possible problems regarding the child's competency to testify |
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Term
| what is one of the most common crimes encountered by LE? |
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Definition
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Term
| in regards to a burglary investigation what is one of the most important locations to search for evidence? |
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Definition
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