Forensic Evidence Collection

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Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis
1. Without regard to individual items of forensic evidence, describe the steps necessary to ensure that items, materials, and samples are eligible as forensic evidence in a criminal proceeding.
First, identify and secure the crime scene by establishing the scene dimensions and identify potential safety and health hazards until released by the investigator who has authority on the scene. Second, establish security who will document personnel entering and exiting the scene as well as the purpose for doing so and the time. Third, the lead investigator conducts a walk through to make a plan about how to collect evidence. Fourth, document and process the scene using photographs, videos, and sketches. Fifth, …show more content…

If the suspect volunteers any statement, including documents of what he or she said with notes date, time, location, and circumstance of the statement the evidence will be eligible as testimonial evidence in a criminal proceeding. (https://www.ovcttac.gov/taskforceguide/eguide/2-forming-a-task-force/22-purpose-and-focus/). Also you must inform the suspect of his “Miranda” rights and affirm that all of the rights were understood by the suspect. Next, the suspect can voluntary or intentional relinquishment some of the rights before speaking to the investigators without council present. During any communication though, if suspect invokes his right to council the interview must stop. As for the juvenile, his legal guardian or a legal representative has to be present if a juvenile is in fact arrested, detained or taken into custody; or if the police do something that would make a reasonable person feel like he was in custody or not free to leave, any questioning in that situation is considered “custodial interrogation.”

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