CSI - Crime Scene Investigator Crime Scene Documentation Techniques Questions and Answers

Question 1

An investigator is documenting a crime scene with photography.
They take a wide shot of the entire room, then a photo showing the relationship of a firearm to a nearby table, and finally a detailed picture of the firearm's serial number with a scale.
This three-step process is known as:

Accepted Answer

Overall, mid-range, and close-up photography

Answer

Triangulation photography

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Systematic evidence capture

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Perspective grid photography

Question 2

When creating a crime scene sketch, which measurement technique is most commonly used to document the location of evidence by taking two measurements from fixed points to the evidence item, thereby forming a triangle?

Accepted Answer

Triangulation

Answer

Rectangular coordinates

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Baseline method

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Polar coordinates

Question 3

A CSI is compiling their notes after processing a homicide scene. Which of the following pieces of information is considered an essential element that MUST be included in the crime scene notes?

Accepted Answer

The names of personnel who collected specific items of evidence

Answer

The investigator's personal opinion on a potential suspect

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A list of all media personnel present outside the perimeter

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The brand name of the camera used for photography

Question 4

During the video documentation of a large outdoor crime scene, the videographer starts by recording the surrounding area, including landmarks and access roads, before slowly moving toward the central area of the scene. What is the primary purpose of this technique?

Accepted Answer

To orient the viewer and show the overall layout and context of the scene

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To allow the camera's sensor to adjust to the lighting conditions

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To provide a sense of scale for the evidence that will be shown later

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To create a continuous, unedited recording for admissibility in court

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the main advantage of a crime scene sketch over crime scene photographs?

Accepted Answer

Sketches can accurately represent the spatial relationships and distances between objects.

Answer

Sketches can be created more quickly than taking comprehensive photographs.

Answer

Sketches capture the emotional atmosphere of the crime scene.

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Sketches are considered more objective and less prone to distortion than photographs.

Question 6

A photo log is a critical component of crime scene documentation. Its primary purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Provide a written record linking each photograph to its description, location, and time.

Answer

Record the camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO) for each photograph taken.

Answer

Serve as a release form for individuals who may appear in the background of photos.

Answer

Track the battery life and memory card usage of the camera during the investigation.