Why is it important to mark evidence at a crime scene before collecting it?

Marking evidence prevents confusion between similar items, maintains a clear record for later analysis, and ensures evidence from different scenes isn't mixed up.

Describe how an investigator should approach marking evidence of different sizes, especially very small evidence.

Larger evidence can be directly marked. For very small evidence, if direct marking is impossible, document it with a sketch or close-up photograph and mark the packaging instead.

If clothing is collected as evidence, how should it be marked, and what precautions should be taken?

Attach a tag if possible, or mark the inside with a permanent marker. Avoid disturbing bullet holes, bloodstain impressions, and marks of wear and tear.

Explain the importance of a consistent system for marking evidence at a crime scene.

Consistency ensures that all stakeholders, from first responders to lawyers and jury, can easily understand the evidence and its context.

Crime Scene Investigation Basics Lesson Plan for Grade 11th Grade

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Learning Objective

I can describe the basic steps of crime scene investigation.

1
After evidence is located, it is marked for collection and documented, because crime investigation is a continuous process until evidence is presented in the courtroom.
2
When marking evidence, investigators should not damage essential details, and if the evidence is too small to mark, they should mark the packaging with details such as serial number, nature of evidence, and location.
3
The three main objectives of packaging evidence are to avoid contamination, preserve the evidence from decay and loss, and protect the evidence from the rigors of transportation.

Crime Scene Investigation Basics

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Learning Objective

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