PC 832 Evidence Collection and Documentation 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of taking photographs at a crime scene before collecting evidence?
- To share on social media for public awareness
- To create a permanent visual record of the scene in its undisturbed state (Correct answer)
- To replace the need for a written report
- To identify suspects using facial recognition software
Correct answer: To create a permanent visual record of the scene in its undisturbed state
Photographs document the scene as it was found, providing a permanent record that supports investigative and court proceedings.
Question 2: Which type of evidence would be considered 'testimonial evidence'?
- A fingerprint lifted from a weapon
- A witness's sworn statement about what they observed (Correct answer)
- Blood found at a crime scene
- A surveillance recording of the incident
Correct answer: A witness's sworn statement about what they observed
Testimonial evidence consists of oral or written statements made under oath by witnesses, victims, or suspects.
Question 3: When writing an arrest report, which element is most critical to include?
- Officer's personal opinion of the suspect's guilt
- Specific, factual observations that establish probable cause (Correct answer)
- Speculation about possible motives
- A summary of the officer's career history
Correct answer: Specific, factual observations that establish probable cause
Arrest reports must contain specific, objective facts that legally justify the arrest and establish probable cause.
Question 4: What does 'latent evidence' refer to in a crime scene investigation?
- Evidence that arrives late to the laboratory
- Evidence that is not immediately visible without special techniques or tools (Correct answer)
- Evidence collected by a latent crimes unit detective
- Evidence stored in a secure location pending trial
Correct answer: Evidence that is not immediately visible without special techniques or tools
Latent evidence, such as fingerprints or trace fibers, is not readily visible and requires chemical, physical, or electronic techniques to detect.
Question 5: How should an officer handle biological evidence such as blood at a crime scene?
- Collect it with bare hands to avoid damaging the sample
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment and place in approved containers (Correct answer)
- Leave it until the forensics lab arrives to collect it
- Photograph it but never collect it in the field
Correct answer: Use appropriate personal protective equipment and place in approved containers
Biological evidence must be handled with PPE to protect both the officer's health and the integrity of the sample.
Question 6: What is a 'crime scene log' used for?
- Recording the names of all personnel who enter the crime scene (Correct answer)
- Logging the officer's daily patrol mileage
- Tracking the number of crimes reported in an area
- Scheduling shifts for officers assigned to guard duty
Correct answer: Recording the names of all personnel who enter the crime scene
A crime scene log records every person who enters or exits the secured area, supporting chain of custody and scene integrity.
PC 832 Evidence Collection and Documentation 2
What is the purpose of taking photographs at a crime scene before collecting evidence?