Chapter 2 Intro to Forensics (Crime scene investigation)

What is a chain of custody?

A chain of custody is a piece of paper which documents every movement a piece of evidence has taken form the time it was collected to the time it is used in court.

When is it acceptable to release a crime scene?

A crime scene can be released after the final survey which is an event that should, like all other events, be documented.

What is a crime scene?

A crime scene is the area in which the crime took place and everything that surrounds it. Many aspects of the surrounding area could also be considered part of the crime scene.

What is a datum?

A datum is a fixed reference point for all 3-D measurements. It has to be something that will not move. All measurements need to be made in comparison to the datum.

What is an MSDS?

An MSDS is a material safety data sheet. It shows the different hazards you could come across and how you can best protect yourself from harm when handling those hazards.

Who should be involved in the final walkthrough of a crime scene?

At least 2 people from each various agencies need to do the final walk through.

What does "BBP" stand for?

Bloodbourne pathogens

What is a universal precaution?

Change your gloves if they are torn, punctured or their barrier is no longer working.

What should be included in a crime scene sketch?

Dimensions Distances between objects Case identifier Date Time Location Weather and lighting Arrow pointing north Assignments of all personal.

Why is processing a crime scene considered "careful destruction"?

It is called "careful destruction" because once you move something, you can't ever go back. You can never undo an action so you have to be very careful as to which items to pick up and how you want to go about processing the crime scene.

Which type of protective gloves should be used when handling bases and oils?

Neoprene gloves are useful for bases and PVC is resistant to oils. Im sure that neoprene gloves can also be used for oils.

Is it okay to only take photographs or only draw sketches?

No, because you need both. Some things may only be captured by camera and some only captured by sketch. Also, if technology fails, you need a backup.

Name 3 agencies that regulate worker safety.

The centers for disease control (CDC) The occupational safety and health administration (OSHA) The national institute for occupational safety and health (NIOSH)

What is provenance?

The provenance is the origin and derivation of an item in relation to other things and especially in relation to the datum.

How many photographs should you take at a crime scene?

There is no set number because it depends on the scene, but you have to take a ton of photos. You need photos of the same piece of evidence with and without a scale, before and after it is recovered and with various lenses in different perspectives. This has to be done for every piece of evidence as well as all of the entrances and exits and a 360 degree coverage of the scene.

Name four safety issues for CSIs

They could inhale airborne contaminants which can make then sick They can cut themselves if there are sharp objects There could also still be a perpetrator at the scene which could pose a risk to their lives Something could splash into their eye or mouth which could lead to infection or disease.

What should the first officer or CSI at the crime scene do>

They need to make sure the scene is secure and they need to prevent alterations or destructions of the scene so that the right evidence can be collected.

Why is it important to plan for a crime scene?

This plan is helpful so that things can run smoothly and no evidence is disrupted at the scene because of poor organization of workers.

Whats involved in making a plan for a crime scene?

You need a search warrant, a command station and everyone needs to have their personal tasks.

Should you take photographs with or without a scale?

You should take photographs with and without a scale.