CFL Crime Scene Investigation Procedures

Question 1

What is the first priority for a CFL arriving at a crime scene involving a lock or door?

Accepted Answer

Documenting the scene before touching any evidence

Answer

Documentation through photography, notes, and measurements must occur before any physical interaction with evidence to preserve the scene's evidentiary integrity.

Question 2

Why should a CFL avoid using WD-40 or lubricants on a suspect lock cylinder at a crime scene?

Accepted Answer

Lubricants can obscure or destroy trace evidence such as metal fragments, pick marks, and debris

Answer

Lubricants can flush away or contaminate microscopic trace evidence including metal transfer marks, tool fragments, and debris critical to forensic analysis.

Question 3

What information should be recorded in a CFL's scene notes before removing a lock for laboratory examination?

Accepted Answer

Location, orientation, door type, lock brand and model, and photographic reference numbers

Answer

Comprehensive documentation including location, orientation, hardware details, and photo references ensures the lock's full context is preserved for later forensic interpretation.

Question 4

When photographing a lock at a crime scene, which lighting technique best reveals pick marks and tool marks?

Accepted Answer

Oblique (raking) lighting from a low angle to the lock surface

Answer

Oblique or raking light from a low angle creates shadows in surface irregularities, dramatically enhancing the visibility of fine tool marks and surface disturbances.

Question 5

What is the correct method for packaging a lock removed from a crime scene for laboratory transport?

Accepted Answer

Rigid container with padding, properly labeled with case number and chain of custody documentation

Answer

Locks must be secured in rigid padded containers to prevent additional damage during transport and preserve existing marks, with complete chain of custody documentation.

(CFL) Certified Forensic Locksmith Practice Test

(CFL) Certified Forensic Locksmith Practice Test

CFL Crime Scene Investigation Procedures