CPI Evidence Collection & Documentation 2

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Overview, mid-range, close-up

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Signed sworn affidavits

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 4

What does 'chain of custody' primarily protect against?

Accepted Answer

Allegations of evidence tampering or contamination

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

(CPI) Certified Professional Investigator Practice Test

(CPI) Certified Professional Investigator Practice Test

CPI Evidence Collection & Documentation 2