CMI Evidence Collection & Forensic Analysis 2

Question 1

When photographing a vessel casualty scene, what is the correct sequence for documenting physical evidence?

Accepted Answer

Wide-angle overview shots first, then progressively closer detail shots

Answer

Proper forensic photography follows a wide-to-close sequence: overview, mid-range, and close-up shots to establish context before recording detail.

Question 2

A marine investigator discovers an oily residue on the bilge pump discharge. Which chain of custody action is most critical at this point?

Accepted Answer

Collect the sample immediately, seal and label it with date, time, location, and collector identity

Answer

Chain of custody requires immediate collection, proper sealing, and complete labeling at the moment of discovery to prevent contamination or tampering.

Question 3

What type of fracture pattern in a vessel's hull plating is most indicative of an internal explosion rather than a collision?

Accepted Answer

Outward-directed petaling with deformation radiating away from the blast center

Answer

Internal explosions push hull material outward, creating outward-petaling fractures with deformation radiating away from the blast's origin point.

Question 4

During a fire investigation aboard a vessel, investigators find the deepest char at the lowest point of a V-pattern burn. What does this most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

The fire originated near the base of the V-pattern, consistent with a low burn origin

Answer

A V-pattern with the deepest char at its base indicates a low point of origin, as fire burns upward and outward from its ignition source.

Question 5

When collecting water samples as evidence in a pollution investigation, how should samples be stored to preserve their evidentiary value?

Accepted Answer

In amber glass containers, refrigerated at 4°C, with appropriate preservatives per analyte

Answer

Amber glass prevents photodegradation, refrigeration at 4°C slows microbial activity, and preservatives are required depending on the specific analytes being tested.

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

(CMI) Certified Marine Investigator Practice Test

CMI Evidence Collection & Forensic Analysis 2