NATS 1575 Study Guide - Midterm Guide: Trace Evidence, Forceps, Gunshot Residue

• School: York University
• Department: Natural Science
• Course: NATS 1575
• Professor: Rajeshwari Iyer

Document Summary

Physical evidence encompasses any and all objects that can establish that a crime has been a committed or can provide a link between a crime and its victim or a crime and its perpetrator. Forensic science begins at the crime scene. If the investigator cannot recognize physical evidence or cannot properly preserve it for laboratory examination, no amount of sophisticated laboratory instrumentation or technical expertise can salvage the situation. Investigators must recognize and properly preserve evidence for laboratory examination. The first officer to arrive at the crime scene is responsible for securing the crime scene. First priority should be given to obtaining medical assistance for individuals in need of it and to arresting the perpetrator. As soon as it is possible, extensive efforts must be made to exclude all unauthorized personnel from the scene. Once the scene is secured, the preliminary exam must begin. Recording of the crime scene becomes a critical piece to the investigation process.