Preserving Evidence Scenario Based Activity
There are several different types or classifications of evidence. Each type of evidence may have different requirements or methodology for handling them at the scene for it to be properly identified, documented, processed, and admissible at trial.
Prior to beginning work on this discussion, please review the following:
- From the text:
- Chapter 8: Pattern Evidence 1: General Patterns and Fingerprints
- Chapter 9: Pattern Evidence 2: Firearms, Tool Marks and Document Analysis
- From the free, downloadable resource at the web page Crime Scene Investigation Guide (Links to an external site.):
- Section D – Completing and Recording the Crime Scene Investigation
- Section E – Crime Scene Equipment
- The articles:
- From the free PDF copy at the web page Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward (2009) (Links to an external site.):
- Section 10. Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems
- Section 11. Homeland Security and Forensic Science
- From the video Bodies, Blood, and Ballistics: Forensics School, Part One :
- Segment 2. Forensics: Blood Spatter 02:35
- Segment 5. Blood Spatter and Trajectories 04:35
- From the video Hands-On Police Work: Forensics School, Part Two :
- Segment 3. Crime Scene Photography 02:27
- Segment 6. How to Capture and Record Fingerprints 03:10
- Segment 8. Crime Scene Documentation 03:18
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- Explain the types of documentation that might be used at a crime scene (e.g. sketches, photographs, note taking, etc.)
- Describe at least two different methods for documenting the scene.
- Explain why the various documentation methods might be used for different types of crimes scenes or evidence.
- Explain the requirements for documentation related to admissibility of evidence at trial.
Each thread must also address health and safety issues at the scene and in handling evidence (e.g., explosives, drugs, biological, etc.)

