Chapter 2 Crime Scene Investigation

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What is the Locard Exchange Principle?

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The Locard Exchange Principle states that whenever two objects come into contact, there is always a transfer of material. This principle is fundamental in forensic science as it explains how evidence can be exchanged between a suspect and a victim.

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What is a Secondary Crime Scene?

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A Secondary Crime Scene is a location other than the primary crime scene where evidence related to the crime is found. It can provide additional context or information about the crime.

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What is Trace Evidence?

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Trace Evidence refers to small but measurable amounts of material found at a crime scene, such as hair, fibers, or gunshot residue, which can be used to link a suspect to a crime.

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What is Individual Evidence?

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Individual Evidence is material that can be related to a single source, such as a fingerprint or DNA, which can uniquely identify a person.

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What is Chain of Custody?

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Chain of Custody is a written record of all individuals who have had possession of an item of evidence, ensuring that the evidence can be traced and its integrity maintained.

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What is a Primary Crime Scene?

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A Primary Crime Scene is the location where the crime actually took place, and where the initial evidence is collected.

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What is Circumstantial Evidence?

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Circumstantial Evidence refers to evidence that relies on an inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact, such as a witness seeing a suspect near the crime scene.

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What is Class Evidence?

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Class Evidence is material that can be associated with a group of objects or persons, such as paint chips from a specific manufacturer, but not linked to a single source.

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What role does a District Attorney play in a crime scene investigation?

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A District Attorney is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the state, and may be involved in the investigation process to ensure that evidence is collected and preserved properly.

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What is the importance of evidence collection at a crime scene?

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Evidence collection is crucial as it helps to establish facts, link suspects to the crime, and support or refute alibis, ultimately aiding in the pursuit of justice.