Crime Scene Documentation and Reporting Flashcards
7 cards from real CSI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Crime Scene Documentation and Reporting flashcards as text
When photographing a footwear impression in mud, which sequence is correct?
Answer: Without scale first, then with scale, using oblique lighting for both
Best practice is to photograph first without a scale (to show the impression undisturbed), then with a scale, and use oblique lighting to reveal detail in both shots.
In crime scene documentation, 'overall' photographs are taken to:
Answer: Show the general scene layout and surrounding environment
Overall photographs establish context by showing the scene in its entirety, including surrounding geography, structures, and access points.
Which of the following is a common error that can compromise a crime scene report's admissibility?
Answer: Including hearsay statements as established facts without attribution
Presenting hearsay as fact rather than attributing statements to their sources introduces inadmissible content and undermines report credibility.
What is an 'exploded' or 'unfolded' crime scene sketch used to document?
Answer: Interior walls and ceiling evidence in addition to the floor plan
An exploded sketch 'unfolds' walls and sometimes the ceiling outward from the floor plan, allowing evidence on all surfaces to be shown in one diagram.
When documenting a gunshot residue (GSR) collection from a suspect, what must be recorded beyond the collection itself?
Answer: Time elapsed since the incident, suspect's activities since the incident, and body areas sampled
GSR documentation must include time since incident and intervening activities (handwashing, etc.) because these affect residue persistence and lab interpretation.
Which measurement system is preferred in forensic crime scene documentation in the United States?
Answer: Either metric or imperial, but the same system must be used consistently throughout
While metric is the international scientific standard, U.S. agencies may use either system, but consistency within a single case's documentation is mandatory to avoid conversion errors.
A final crime scene report should be completed:
Answer: As soon as possible while details are fresh, typically within 24-72 hours
Reports should be completed promptly while memory is fresh, typically within 24-72 hours, even if lab results are pending, which can be added via supplemental report.