Who is responsible for protecting the scene?
First law enforcement officer on scene + every police/peace officer has ongoing duty to protect the scene
Assessing A Scene
- surfaces @ point of entry/exit
- items within the scene
- evidence of evidential value
- extended exposure of surface to weather
- footwear and tire tracks have detail, protect from damage
Path of Contamination vs. Safe Path
Path of contam: where perp travelled
Safe path: area investigators can travel without contaminating evidence
T or F: Contamination is done solely by law enforcement or forensic lab personnel
True
What should you consider when handling evidence related to a sexual assault?
Try to have different officers handle the different individuals
Definitely change gloves and record when you changed gloves in notebook
3 Steps when dealing with possible forensics involved situation
1) Ensure safety
2) Assess if Ident required
3) If yes Ident, secure the scene
T or F - You can use any camera for photographing evidence
False - only use service-issued camera or cell phone
4 Types of Images (distance)
- Overall
- Mid-Range
- Close Up
- As Close As Possible (ACAD) - w/ ruler
If Ident is attending, do you take photos first evidence?
No. It could cause court issues
Why is it important not to mis-handle evidence?
It can lead to wrongful convictions
How many photos should you take for evidence?
More than 1! Lol
