Answers 100% Correct
Corpus delicti facts of the case
MO-Modus Operandi the preferred method of operation
Class characteristics physical evidence that cannot be related to a common origin with a
high degree of certainty, therefore it can only be associated with a group and never a single
source
Indivdual characteristics are distinct differences in the physical evidence that allow it to
be associated with a single source and allow the examiner to determine the uniqueness of any
single object or piece of evidence
Associative evidence items of physical evidence located during a crime scene search can
be used to demonstrate linkage or to "associate" the victim to the suspect or to a particular
location
,What ammendment protects against unreasonable search and seizure Fourth amedment
Mincey v. Arizona dictated what actions law enforcement personnel are authorized to
take without first obtaining a warrant
Items that can be obtained without obtaining a warrant 1. Seach the scene for rictims and
render aid in areas where a victim could resonably be found
2. Enter the scene to search for perpetrators (only in areas where a suspect could be located)
3.While officers are legally in a location performing either of the two aforementioned actions,
they may swize items of evidentiary nature that are in plain view-however, this should only
occur in exigent circumstances, such as an unsecured weapon
Transient evidence is defined as physical evidence that may be lost forever if not
immediately preserved
Fruit of the poisonous tree If the physical evidence is tainted then any subsequent
information derived from that evidence would also be tainted
,Frye v. United States rejected the admission of a polygraph test on the basis that the
reliability of the intrument had not been proven.
Frye test established the criteria that define judicial acceptance of scientific advances.
Basically, the ruling requires expert testimony to be based on scientific principles or procedues
that have already been generally accepted winthin the scientific community. Courts will hear
testimony from experts in the field as well as consider scientific papers before determining the
acceptability of a technique
Rule 702 Federal court system guideline when dealing with the admissibility of expert
tesimony relating to scientific analysis of physical evidence. The judge is responsible for the
determination of qualifications of an expert witness and if they can offer an opinion based on
knowledge, skill, training, or education and experience. Only apply to fedeal court proceedings
but many state courts have adopted these guidelines.
Daubert guidelines the court will require proof that the scientific basis underlying the
opinion is generally accepted in the scientific community and is relevant and reliable. Judges
must assume the responsibility of becoming the gatekeeper in determining the admissibility of
scientific evidence.
, "Relevant and Reliable" standard of Daubert Prior to acceptance of expert testimony the
jusdge must determine if the reasoning or methodolog underlying the testimony is scientifically
valid and can be applied to the facts at issue
Chain of custody usually referes to the documentation of the location of all physical
evidence at all times
Every action must be documented in what ways... notes, photographs, sketches, and
reports
The purpose of documentation is to create a permanent record of the condition of the
crime scene and the physical evidence
Four stages that must be completed during documentation include: 1. taking notes 2.
videography 3. photography 4. sketching
Photo log indicates: time and date, roll number, camera settings, distane to the subject,
and a brief describtion.