DCJS Criminal Investigation Procedures 3

Question 1

What does 'exculpatory evidence' mean in a criminal investigation?

Accepted Answer

Evidence that tends to clear or excuse a suspect from guilt

Answer

Exculpatory evidence tends to negate a defendant's guilt and must be disclosed to the defense under Brady v. Maryland.

Question 2

An officer discovers a body and suspects homicide. What should be the first investigative priority?

Accepted Answer

Secure and protect the scene before any evidence is touched

Answer

Scene security is always the first priority in a homicide investigation to prevent evidence loss or contamination.

Question 3

In Virginia, a consent search requires that consent be:

Accepted Answer

Voluntary and not the product of coercion or duress

Answer

Valid consent must be freely and voluntarily given; consent obtained through threats, coercion, or deception is constitutionally invalid.

Question 4

What is a 'modus operandi' (MO) and why is it important in investigations?

Accepted Answer

A suspect's characteristic method of committing crimes, useful for linking cases

Answer

MO refers to a criminal's signature methods and habits, which investigators use to connect multiple crimes to a single offender.

Question 5

When is it appropriate for an investigator to use a ruse or deception during a suspect interview?

Accepted Answer

Before Miranda warnings are given, within legal limits

Answer

Courts have allowed certain deceptive interview tactics before Miranda warnings, but deception cannot be used to overbear the suspect's will.

(DCJS) VA DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Practice Test