ACT 235 Evidence Collection 3

Question 1

When an Act 235 agent photographs a crime scene, in what order should photographs generally be taken?

Accepted Answer

Overall/wide shots first, then mid-range, then close-up detail shots

Answer

Standard crime scene photography moves from overall establishing shots, to mid-range orientation shots, to close-up detail shots to document context before details.

Question 2

An Act 235 agent collects a spent cartridge casing at a shooting scene. Where should the agent mark the casing for identification?

Accepted Answer

On the inside of the casing or base without obscuring markings

Answer

Initials or identifying marks on cartridge casings should be placed inside the casing or on the base to avoid obscuring ballistic toolmark evidence on the exterior.

Question 3

What is the purpose of using a scale or ruler in crime scene photographs?

Accepted Answer

To provide a reference for the actual size of evidence items in photographs

Answer

A scale or ruler in photographs provides a reference so that the actual size of evidence can be accurately determined from the image.

Question 4

A witness voluntarily hands an Act 235 agent a piece of potential evidence. What is the correct procedure?

Accepted Answer

Accept it using gloves, immediately package and label it, and document the transfer

Answer

Evidence from a witness should be accepted with gloves, immediately packaged and labeled, with full documentation of the transfer to preserve chain of custody.

Question 5

When is it appropriate for an Act 235 lethal weapons agent to collect digital evidence such as a cell phone?

Accepted Answer

Only when authorized by law, with proper legal authority or consent

Answer

Digital evidence collection requires proper legal authority such as a warrant, consent, or an applicable legal exception to protect Fourth Amendment rights.

ACT Practice Test

ACT Practice Test

ACT 235 Evidence Collection 3