Forensic Analysis & Evidence Handling Flashcards

In forensic locksmithing, 'broaching' refers to:

Answer: A manufacturing process that cuts the keyway profile into a lock plug

Broaching is the machining process that cuts the specific keyway profile into the plug; knowledge of this helps examiners distinguish tool marks from manufacturing artifacts.

Which item should a forensic locksmith use to collect metal filings found near a cut padlock shackle?

Answer: Latex gloves and forceps, placing filings in a sealed plastic bag

Metal filings are physical trace evidence that must be manually collected with forceps and sealed to prevent loss or contamination.

A forensic locksmith examining a cylindrical knob lock finds the retainer ring is bent outward. This is MOST consistent with:

Answer: Pulling or prying attack on the knob

A bent-outward retainer ring indicates the knob was subjected to a pulling or prying force, which is a forced entry indicator.

Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) is used in forensic lock cases to:

Answer: Determine the elemental composition of trace metals left in toolmarks

SEM-EDS analyzes the elemental composition of trace metals, which can link a specific tool to marks left in a lock.

A forensic report must note that the lock was examined 'in situ' when:

Answer: The lock was examined at the crime scene without being removed

'In situ' examination means the lock was studied in its original installed position at the scene, which is noted to establish examination conditions.

Which ASTM or ALOA standard guides the documentation and reporting requirements for forensic lock examinations in the US?

Answer: ALOA's Certified Forensic Locksmith (CFL) examination body of knowledge and associated professional standards

The CFL body of knowledge and ALOA professional standards define reporting, documentation, and ethical requirements for forensic locksmith examinations.

When a forensic locksmith identifies evidence of 'decoding,' what has occurred?

Answer: The combination or bitting of a lock has been determined without the original key

Decoding is the process of determining a lock's combination or key bitting using specialized tools or techniques without possessing the original key.