CSI Vocabulary

spiral

• a method of searching a crime scene by moving in a circle that gets wider and wider

• a technique for interviewing witnesses in a linear fashion

• a strategy for collecting evidence in a straight line

• a process of analyzing data in a circular format

Legend

• a key that explains the symbols and notations used in the sketch

• a decorative title for a map

• a summary of the main points in a document

• a list of references used in a research paper

Orientation Shot

• refers to whether the camera is held horizontally (landscape) or vertically (portrait).

• is a technique used to enhance the color saturation in photographs.

• describes the angle at which a photograph is taken, such as high or low angle.

• is a method of framing a shot to include more background elements.

reconstruction

• the process of determining how a crime was committed by interviewing witnesses, analyzing evidence, and testing scientific theories

• the act of rebuilding a physical structure after it has been damaged

• the method of creating a timeline of events based on witness testimonies

• the process of gathering and storing evidence for future reference

Secondary Crime Scene

• a location where the crime actually took place

• a location that is connected to a crime but is not where the crime actually took place

• a location that is unrelated to the crime

• a location where evidence is destroyed

Scale

• provide a geometrical reference in the photographic documentation of evidence

• indicate the size of an object in a photograph

• measure the distance between two points in a photo

• enhance the color contrast in photographic evidence

Strip

• dividing a large area into parallel lanes and searching each lane in a straight line

• a method of removing paint from a surface

• a technique for measuring distances in surveying

• a way to organize data in a spreadsheet

grid

• A systematic search pattern where the area is divided into squares, with investigators meticulously combing through each square in a methodical manner, effectively covering the entire scene twice by searching in perpendicular directions, ensuring thorough coverage and minimizing the chance of missing crucial evidence

• A random search method that relies on luck to find evidence in a crime scene.

• A technique where investigators only focus on the most obvious areas of a crime scene, ignoring less visible spots.

• A search pattern that involves circling the perimeter of the area without entering it, looking for evidence from a distance.

Right Angle Sketch

• A method of documenting evidence location by measuring distances from two perpendicular walls or fixed points, essentially creating a 90-degree angle to pinpoint the exact position of an object within a room, often using the "rectangular coordinate method."

• A technique for drawing angles in geometry that involves using a compass and straightedge.

• A strategy for organizing evidence in a crime scene by using a grid layout.

• A method for estimating distances in outdoor environments using triangulation.

Warrantless Searches

• A law enforcement officer searches or arrests someone without a warrant or other legal authorization

• A law enforcement officer must obtain a warrant before conducting a search

• Warrantless searches are only allowed in emergency situations

• Warrantless searches are illegal in all circumstances