Criminal Investigation Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real DCJS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Criminal Investigation Procedures flashcards as text
What is 'digital forensics' in the context of a criminal investigation?
Answer: The collection, preservation, and analysis of electronic evidence from devices and networks
Digital forensics involves the recovery and analysis of material found on electronic devices in a way that preserves evidence integrity for court use.
When an officer observes contraband in plain view through a car window during a lawful traffic stop, the 'plain view doctrine' allows seizure only if:
Answer: The contraband's incriminating nature is immediately apparent
Plain view seizure requires that the officer is lawfully present, the object is in plain view, and its incriminating character is immediately apparent without further investigation.
In a rape investigation, what is the primary purpose of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exam?
Answer: To collect biological evidence and document injuries while providing medical care to the victim
A SANE exam collects forensic evidence including DNA, documents injuries, and provides trauma-informed medical care to sexual assault victims.
What is 'corroboration' and why is it important in criminal investigations?
Answer: Additional independent evidence that supports and strengthens a witness's account
Corroborating evidence independently confirms key parts of witness testimony, making cases stronger and more resistant to challenges at trial.
An investigator learns that a key witness has died before trial. Which evidentiary rule might allow prior recorded testimony to be admitted?
Answer: The Hearsay Exception for Former Testimony
Prior testimony given under oath with opportunity for cross-examination may be admitted under the former testimony hearsay exception when the witness is unavailable.
What is a 'canvass' in the context of a criminal investigation?
Answer: A systematic door-to-door search of an area for witnesses or surveillance footage
A neighborhood canvass involves systematically contacting residents and businesses near a crime scene to find witnesses and gather information.
Under the Confrontation Clause of the Sixth Amendment, a defendant generally has the right to:
Answer: Cross-examine witnesses who testify against them at trial
The Confrontation Clause guarantees defendants the right to face and cross-examine adverse witnesses, affecting how investigators document and present evidence.