Evidence Collection & Preservation Flashcards
7 cards from real FBI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Evidence Collection & Preservation flashcards as text
What type of search pattern is most effective for locating evidence in a large, open outdoor area such as a field where a shooting occurred?
Answer: Line (strip) search with personnel walking parallel paths
A line (strip) search with personnel walking parallel paths at fixed intervals ensures the most thorough and systematic coverage of large open areas.
An agent must submit a firearm for fingerprint examination. Which statement about firearm surface types and latent print recovery is most accurate?
Answer: Non-porous metal surfaces are best processed with cyanoacrylate fuming or powder
Non-porous metal surfaces on firearms respond best to cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming or aluminum powder, which adhere to the amino acids and oils in latent prints.
What is a 'control sample' in the context of GSR or DNA evidence collection, and why is it required?
Answer: An uncontaminated sample from an adjacent, non-involved area used to verify no background contamination
A control sample from an unexposed area of the same surface verifies that any substance detected on the evidence sample is not background environmental contamination.
Under FBI evidence handling policy, who is authorized to open sealed evidence packaging once it has been submitted to the property room?
Answer: Authorized laboratory personnel or evidence custodians following documented procedures
Once sealed and submitted, only authorized laboratory personnel or evidence custodians may open evidence packaging, and all openings must be documented in the chain of custody.
When documenting a shooting scene with measurements, what is the preferred method for accurately recording the location of evidence items?
Answer: Triangulation from two fixed reference points
Triangulation from two independent fixed reference points provides a mathematically precise, reproducible location that can be re-established even if the original scene changes.
What precaution must be taken before placing a loaded firearm recovered from a crime scene into an evidence bag?
Answer: Clear and render the firearm safe while documenting the action and original condition
The firearm must be cleared and made safe before packaging, with all actions documented in the evidence notes to preserve the original condition information.
A crime scene investigator notices that shell casings are scattered in a pattern inconsistent with the reported events. What action should be taken?
Answer: Document the actual positions precisely and note the discrepancy in the scene report
All evidence must be documented in its found position regardless of inconsistencies; discrepancies are noted in the report and may become significant to the investigation.