Forensic Evidence and Crime Scene Essay

Submitted By CaitMac0802
Words: 481
Pages: 2

Criminal Investigations
Ch. 1 Notes

Goals of Criminal Investigation

-Determine whether a crime has been committed.

-Legally obtain info and evidence to identify the responsible person.

-Arrest the suspect.

-Recover stolen property.

-Present the best possible case to the prosecutor.

Basic Functions of Investigators

-Provide emergency assistance

-Secure the crime scene

-Photograph, Videotape and Sketch

-Take notes and Write reports

-Search for, obtain and process physical evidence

-Obtain info from witnesses and suspects

-Identify suspects

-Conduct raids, surveillances, stakeouts and undercover assignments

-Testify in court

A Successful Investigation

-A logical Sequence is followed

-All physical evidence is legally obtained

-All witnesses are effectively interviewed

-All suspects are legally and effectively interrogated

-All leads are thoroughly developed

-All details of case are accurately and completely recorded and reported

Characteristics of an Investigator

-Culturally adroit

-Self disciplined

-Competitive

-An actor

-Perseverance

-Command Presence

-Act like you know, even if you don’t

-Instill confidence

-Mentally tough

Physical Traits

-Stay in shape (exercise relieves stress)

-“Lead Development”

-Dress for Success

PRIMARY OFFICER is the first officer who responds. They are in charge until relieved by another officer.

Initial Response

-Arrive a crime scene rapidly

-Depends as to role

-Have a “go kit”

-Suspect may be at scene

-Injured need emergency care

-Witnesses may be at scene

-Dying declaration (Admissible in court)

-Weather may destroy crime scene

-Protect integrity of crime scene

Priorities

-Handle emergencies first

-Secure the scene

-Investigate

PROTECTION OF CRIME SCENE- LOCARDS PRINCIPLE OF EXCHANGE, a basic forensic theory that objects that come in contact with each other always transfer material, however minute, to each other.

Responsibilities during Preliminary Investigation

-Questioning victims, witnesses, and suspects

-Conducting a neighborhood canvas

-Measuring, photographing, videotaping, and sketching the scene

-Searching for evidence

-Identifying, collecting, examining, and processing physical evidence

-Recording all statements and observations in notes

Dealing with the Media

-Can be your friend, not always negative

-They have no more rights to crime scenes than the general