Collection Notes
Ms. Engle
Forensics Class
Crime Scenes and Evidence
As a crime scene investigator:– After a crime:
First responder Give aid Interview witnesses
– Secure and protect the integrity of the crime scene
– Prevent others from disturbing the evidence
Documentation
Photography Notes Video Taping Sketches
Crime Scene Search Patterns
Line method Strip method Grid method Wheel method Spiral method Zone method Link method
Patterns
When searching for evidence
Look beyond the obvious Search methodology Search Pattern Record Evidence- Chain of Custody Preventing Contamination
– SMID
Types of Evidence
Various definitions:– ???“Animal, mineral or vegetable”???
Now: – Chemical, biological or microscopic
Types of Evidence
Expert Evidence– In or out of court, opinions
Testimonial Evidence– Interviews, statements, etc.
Physical Evidence– Trace, blood, fibers
Evidence Protocols
Important because:– Sets a standard – Leaves little room for error– Difficult to challenge
Collection of Physical Evidence
Get the whole object Wet Let Dry!!!! Primary AND Secondary Survey
– Fresh or rested eyes– 2nd set of eyes– Scientific-ness
Reconstruction of Evidence
How the act occurred base on evidence, not Skepticism
Use the end result to look at the past Look at components:
– Crime Scene & Evidence– Forensic Lab Tests– Logic and Reasoning– EXPERIENCE