1. Multidisciplinary
approach

2. = series of logical steps to solve a problem
Scientific Method
= series of logical steps to solve a problem

3. Used to observe and collect evidence
CSI team and Crime labs – legal and scientific experts (police & scientists; maybe MEs and DAs)
- process scene and collect evidence

4. Figure 1-9. Responsibilities of the crime-scene investigation team.
Field Investigative unit
Crime Lab Scientists
Secure the crime scene
Photograph the crime scene
Search the crime scene
Properly collect and package evidence
Complete proper forms
Evidence submission form
Chain of custody
Deliver or ship evidence to proper processing site
Provide expert testimony
Receive/sign for evidence
Review paperwork
Complete chemical and/or physical tests on evidence
Complete an analysis of the findings

5. Processing a Scene DO NOT TOUCH!!!
1. Secure – tape, clear area of people, first aid
2. Hold & question people
3. Sketch or Photo scene
- measurements; location of evidence
4. Collect & package physical evidence

6. Search Methods Zone – building; homicide, home invasion
Spiral – large area, no barriers; kidnapping, homicide
Line Search – large area, large object, in 1 direction; plane crash
Grid – large area, large object, in 2 directions; arson

7. Evidence
Testimonial – witness testimony to build timeline of events or confirm suspect’s whereabouts
Physical – material collected or observed at scene linking suspect to crime
- packaged based on chemical and physical properties

8. Trace – very small amounts
Class characteristics = general; reduces # of suspects
Individual characteristics = matched to a single source

9. Chain of Custody
Documentation of every person who came in contact with evidence; “paper trail”
Shows evidence is free of contamination, alteration, or substitution
Use Evidence Submission Form – lists each item, description, and testing procedure requested

10. Landmark Cases
1. Frye v US - led to Frye Standard = evidence, procedures and equipment presented at trial must be accepted by scientific community 2. Daubert v Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals - trial judge has ultimate decision making power re: expert testimony 3. Dr. Carl Coppolino - new tests can be used, but expert must use scientifically valid testimony to support findings