ACT 235 Evidence Collection 2

Question 1

Under Act 235, when a lethal weapons agent observes a crime scene, what is the FIRST priority before collecting any evidence?

Accepted Answer

Ensure officer and bystander safety and secure the perimeter

Answer

Scene safety and securing the perimeter are always the first priorities before any evidence collection activities begin.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the 'chain of custody' in evidence collection?

Accepted Answer

A documented record tracking who handled evidence from collection to court

Answer

Chain of custody is a chronological documentation showing who collected, handled, transferred, and analyzed evidence to ensure its integrity.

Question 3

A lethal weapons agent finds a firearm at a scene. What is the correct initial step before packaging it as evidence?

Accepted Answer

Clear the weapon and render it safe before packaging

Answer

Before packaging a firearm as evidence, it must be cleared and rendered safe to protect personnel handling the evidence.

Question 4

When collecting biological evidence such as blood at a scene, an Act 235 agent should use which type of container?

Accepted Answer

Paper bags or breathable containers to prevent mold and bacterial growth

Answer

Biological evidence should be stored in breathable paper containers because airtight plastic traps moisture and accelerates decomposition.

Question 5

During evidence collection, an Act 235 agent realizes a piece of evidence may have been moved before their arrival. What should they do?

Accepted Answer

Document the known or suspected disturbance in their report

Answer

Any known or suspected disturbance to a scene must be documented in the report so investigators and courts are aware of potential contamination.

ACT Practice Test