Investigative Principles Flashcards
6 cards from real DSSAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Investigative Principles flashcards as text
What is the 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine in federal criminal law?
Answer: Evidence obtained illegally, and any evidence derived from it, is inadmissible
The 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine holds that evidence derived from an illegal search or seizure is inadmissible, just like the original illegally obtained evidence.
During an interview, a subject begins to contradict their earlier statements. What is the most appropriate investigative response?
Answer: Note the inconsistencies and continue the interview without confrontation, then follow up later
Trained investigators note inconsistencies without confronting the subject immediately, allowing the interview to continue while the full account is gathered. Inconsistencies are then analyzed and addressed in follow-up.
What is the primary purpose of conducting a 'cold hit' database search during a criminal investigation?
Answer: To match forensic evidence (e.g., DNA, fingerprints) against databases of known offenders without a specific suspect
A 'cold hit' occurs when forensic evidence such as DNA or fingerprints is matched against criminal databases (e.g., CODIS, IAFIS) and produces a match without a prior suspect.
Which type of surveillance technique involves agents maintaining continuous observation of a subject over an extended period across multiple locations?
Answer: Moving (mobile) surveillance
Moving (mobile) surveillance involves agents following a subject across multiple locations over an extended period, adapting to the subject's movements.
What legal standard must be met before a federal agent can obtain a search warrant?
Answer: Probable cause to believe evidence of a crime will be found at the location
The Fourth Amendment requires agents to establish probable cause before a neutral magistrate or judge will issue a search warrant.
When a DS Special Agent conducts an overseas investigation, which principle governs the admissibility of evidence gathered in a foreign country?
Answer: The exclusionary rule applies only to U.S. territory; foreign-gathered evidence has more flexible admissibility standards
The Fourth Amendment exclusionary rule has limited extraterritorial application; evidence gathered overseas generally has more flexible admissibility standards in U.S. courts, though civil rights standards may still apply to U.S. persons abroad.