Criminal Investigation and Evidence Flashcards

Under New York law, what is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

Answer: Felonies carry potential imprisonment of more than one year; misdemeanors carry one year or less

In New York, felonies are serious crimes punishable by more than one year in state prison, while misdemeanors carry a maximum of one year in a local jail.

What is the purpose of a 'DD-5' supplemental report used by New York law enforcement?

Answer: To document additional investigative follow-up after an initial report

A DD-5 is a follow-up supplemental report used to document additional investigative information gathered after the original complaint report.

Which technique is used to search a large outdoor crime scene with multiple troopers moving in a line?

Answer: Line search

A line search, also called a strip search, involves officers moving parallel to one another in a straight line across an outdoor area.

What does 'Locard's Exchange Principle' state?

Answer: Every contact between two objects leaves a trace

Locard's Exchange Principle states that whenever two objects come into contact, they exchange trace materials, which is foundational to forensic science.

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

Answer: Overall, mid-range, close-up

Crime scene photography should proceed from overall (establishing shots) to mid-range to close-up to document context before detail.

What is the legal term for physical control over a person without formal arrest during a criminal investigation?

Answer: Detention

A detention is a temporary, limited restriction of a person's freedom based on reasonable suspicion, which is less than a full arrest.