Criminal Investigation and Evidence Flashcards

When a NYSP trooper arrives at a crime scene, what is the first priority?

Answer: Secure and preserve the scene

The first priority at any crime scene is to secure and preserve it to prevent contamination or loss of evidence.

Which type of evidence refers to physical objects found at a crime scene?

Answer: Real evidence

Real evidence consists of tangible, physical objects such as weapons, clothing, or tools found at a crime scene.

What legal standard must be met for a NYSP trooper to make a warrantless arrest?

Answer: Probable cause

Probable cause — a reasonable belief that a person has committed a crime — is required for a warrantless arrest.

Which Miranda right must be read to a suspect before custodial interrogation?

Answer: Right to remain silent

The right to remain silent is a core Miranda warning that must be given before any custodial interrogation.

What is the chain of custody in evidence handling?

Answer: The documented record tracking evidence from collection to court

Chain of custody is a chronological documentation showing who collected, handled, and transferred evidence to ensure its integrity.

Which of the following is considered trace evidence?

Answer: Hair and fiber samples

Trace evidence includes microscopic materials such as hair, fibers, and glass fragments transferred between a suspect and a scene.