Evidence Collection & Documentation Flashcards

When photographing a crime scene, what is the correct sequence of photography?

Answer: Overview, mid-range, close-up

Photography should proceed from overall scene orientation (overview) to specific detail (close-up) to establish context before capturing details.

Which type of evidence is considered the most reliable form of witness documentation in an investigation?

Answer: Signed sworn affidavits

Signed sworn affidavits carry legal weight because the witness attests to accuracy under penalty of perjury.

A surveillance log should include which of the following at minimum?

Answer: Date, time, location, subject description, and observed activities

A complete surveillance log must capture contemporaneous details including date, time, location, subject, and activities to be admissible and credible.

What does 'chain of custody' primarily protect against?

Answer: Allegations of evidence tampering or contamination

Chain of custody documentation establishes that evidence was not altered, tampered with, or contaminated from collection through presentation.

When documenting digital evidence such as a computer hard drive, what should an investigator do FIRST?

Answer: Create a forensic image (bit-for-bit copy) before any analysis

A forensic image preserves the original state of the drive so analysis can be performed on the copy without altering original evidence.

In field notes, an investigator should write observations in which tense?

Answer: Present tense as events occur

Field notes should be recorded in present tense in real time to ensure accuracy and contemporaneous documentation.

Which of the following best describes 'demonstrative evidence'?

Answer: Diagrams, models, or exhibits used to illustrate facts

Demonstrative evidence includes charts, diagrams, timelines, and models created to help explain other evidence to a judge or jury.